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 a swift 20 minutes.
Whenever the hustle and bustle of daily life leaves me with little time for a traditional sit-down meal, my air fryer becomes my best kitchen companion. I stumbled upon this recipe during one of those hectic days. Aiming to whip up something quick yet delectable, I experimented with chicken breasts I had in the fridge, a sprinkle of Parmesan, and some Panko for that irresistible crunch. The result was magical—each bite was a blend of crispy goodness and juicy tenderness, instantly transporting me back to the cozy, laughter-filled dinners at my grandmother’s home. It was such a hit that now, whether it’s a quiet evening or a last-minute gathering, this dish brings a touch of nostalgia and flavor to the table, proving that great meals don’t always require extensive prep.
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Dive into the world of quick and healthy cooking with this Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe, a perfect fusion of convenience and flavor. Here’s why you’ll want to try it:
- Healthier Cooking: Utilizing an air fryer reduces the need for excessive oil, making this dish a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken.
- Time-Saving: From start to finish, it takes just 20 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Crust: The combination of Panko breadcrumbs with Parmesan creates a golden, crispy coating that’s incredibly satisfying.
- Versatile Serving: Serve it as a main course, slice it up for salads, or tuck it into wraps for a meal that adapts to your needs.
Ingredients Notes
Creating the perfect Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken begins with understanding your ingredients. Here’s a breakdown:
- Chicken Breasts: Opt for large breasts and slice them in half to ensure quick and even cooking.
- Mayonnaise: This not only helps to keep the chicken moist but also acts as a delicious binding agent for the crumbs and cheese.
- Minced Garlic: Adds a subtle kick that complements the creamy texture of the mayonnaise.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs are key to achieving that light, airy crunch that makes this dish stand out.
- Parmesan Cheese: Use freshly shredded Parmesan for the best melt and flavor distribution.
- Salt and Pepper: A simple seasoning duo that enhances all the other flavors in the dish.
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How To Make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken
To make your Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken, follow these simple steps for culinary success:
- Preparation: Start by combining the Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper in one bowl. In another, blend the mayonnaise with minced garlic.
- Chicken Prep: Pat the chicken dry, ensuring it’s moisture-free for the mayo and crumb coating to adhere properly.
- Coating: Generously brush each chicken piece with the garlic mayo, then press into the breadcrumb mixture to coat thoroughly.
- Cooking: Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F and lightly spray the basket with olive oil. Place the chicken in the basket, not overcrowding it.
- Air Frying: Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. The chicken is done when it’s golden outside and the internal temperature reads 165 F.
Storage Options
This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is best enjoyed fresh but if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken pieces in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag, where they can be stored for up to a month. Reheat in the air fryer to retain the crispy texture.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Here are some ideas:
- Gluten-Free: Swap the Panko breadcrumbs for a gluten-free alternative to cater to gluten-sensitive diets.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free Parmesan or nutritional yeast flakes in place of traditional Parmesan.
- Herb-Infused: Add dried Italian herbs or fresh chopped parsley to the breadcrumb mixture for an aromatic twist.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper or chili flakes into the breadcrumb mix for those who favor a spicy touch.
Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts halved to reduce thickness
- 5 tablespoons of mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic minced
- 3/4 cup of Panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese finely shredded
- A pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Coating Mixtures: In a suitable bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs, shredded Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. In a separate bowl, thoroughly mix the mayonnaise with the minced garlic.
- Prepare the Chicken: Rinse the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step ensures the coatings will adhere properly.
- Apply Coatings: Brush each chicken piece liberally with the garlic-infused mayonnaise. Subsequently, dredge in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres evenly.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to preheat at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 minutes. During this time, lightly spray the inside of the air fryer basket with olive oil.
- Cook the Chicken: Place the coated chicken pieces in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching to allow for even airflow and cooking. Air fry the chicken for approximately 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit in the thickest part of the breast.
