Delight in crispy, tender Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken, featuring juicy chicken breasts, tangy mayonnaise, aromatic garlic, crunchy Panko breadcrumbs, and rich Parmesan cheese—all ready in just 20 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a perfect fusion of convenience and flavor, making it a must-try:
- Healthier Cooking: The air fryer reduces the need for excessive oil, offering a healthier alternative to fried chicken.
- Time-Saving: From start to finish, this dish takes only 20 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Crust: The combination of Panko and Parmesan creates a golden, crispy coating that’s incredibly satisfying.
- Versatile Serving: Serve it as a main course, slice it for salads, or tuck it into wraps for a versatile meal.
Ingredient Breakdown
Understanding your ingredients is key to perfecting this dish:
- Chicken Breasts: Choose large breasts and slice them in half for quick cooking.
- Mayonnaise: Keeps the chicken moist and acts as a binding agent for the crumbs and cheese.
- Minced Garlic: Adds a subtle kick that complements the mayonnaise.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Essential for achieving that light, airy crunch.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly shredded for the best flavor and melt.
- Salt and Pepper: Enhances the overall flavor.
How to Make It
Follow these steps for delicious Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken:
- Preparation: Combine Panko, Parmesan, salt, and pepper in one bowl. In another, blend mayonnaise with minced garlic.
- Chicken Prep: Pat the chicken dry for better coating adherence.
- Coating: Brush each chicken piece with the garlic mayo, then press into the breadcrumb mixture to coat thoroughly.
- Cooking: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F and lightly spray the basket with olive oil. Arrange the chicken in the basket without overcrowding.
- Air Frying: Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Storage Options
While best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken pieces in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. Reheat in the air fryer to maintain crispiness.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is adaptable to suit various tastes:
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for those avoiding gluten.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy-free Parmesan or nutritional yeast flakes.
- Herb-Infused: Add dried Italian herbs or fresh parsley to the breadcrumbs for an aromatic twist.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a spicy touch.
Enjoy this quick, flavorful dish that brings comfort and nostalgia to your table!