Description
This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe delivers perfectly crispy and golden chicken breasts coated with a flavorful garlic mayo and a crunchy Parmesan panko crust. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is an easy, delicious, and healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal any time.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
Garlic Mayo Coating
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Parmesan Crust
- 1 cup Italian seasoned panko bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
For Cooking & Garnish
- Olive oil spray
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 390°F to ensure it reaches the optimal temperature for a crispy finish on the chicken.
- Prepare Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create four thinner pieces. Place each piece between two sheets of plastic wrap and use a meat tenderizer to pound them until evenly thin, ensuring even cooking.
- Make Garlic Mayo Coating: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise and minced garlic thoroughly. Spread this garlic mayo mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken piece to add moisture and flavor.
- Prepare Parmesan Crust: In a shallow bowl, mix the Italian seasoned panko bread crumbs with grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Press each garlic-coated chicken piece firmly into the crumb mixture to fully coat both sides for a crunchy crust.
- Prepare Air Fryer Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray (avoid PAM as it can damage some air fryer baskets) to prevent sticking and assist crisping.
- Cook Chicken in Air Fryer: Place the coated chicken pieces in a single layer inside the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Cook for 8 minutes, then flip each piece and cook for an additional 5 to 7 minutes until the crust is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the air fryer and serve warm. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
Notes
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure the chicken cooks evenly and crisps properly.
- You can substitute Italian seasoned panko with plain panko and add your own Italian seasoning blend if preferred.
- If you don’t have a meat tenderizer, you can use the bottom of a heavy pan to gently pound the chicken.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat leftover chicken in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
