Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

If you’re craving the perfect weeknight dinner with irresistible crunch, juicy chicken, and a cheesy zest, Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is your new hero. This golden beauty is everything we love about comfort food—crunchy, flavorful, and ready in just about 20 minutes, thanks to the magic of the air fryer.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken, simplicity shines. Each ingredient not only pulls its weight in the flavor department, but also contributes to that signature crispy exterior and melt-in-your-mouth juiciness. Here’s what you’ll need and why you shouldn’t swap a thing!

• 2 Large Chicken breasts: Provides a juicy, protein-packed base and stays tender when air-fried.
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded: Adds a nutty, salty kick and forms the golden, cheesy crust.
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs: Delivers ultimate crunch—panko stays crispy and light (swap for keto).
• 1 cup real mayonnaise: Locks in moisture and helps the coating stick for flavor and texture.
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder: Infuses the coating with savory depth and aroma.
• Salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together—don’t forget that seasoning!

Variations

The magic of Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is how easily you can make it your own. Whether you have dietary needs or want to use what’s already in your pantry, try these easy twists to create a new flavor combo every time!

• Keto-Friendly: Skip the panko entirely and just use Parmesan for a low-carb option that’s still perfectly crispy.
• Spicy Kick: Stir a little cayenne or crushed red pepper into the breadcrumb mixture if you love heat.
• Herb Upgrade: Mix in dried Italian herbs, basil, or oregano to infuse the crust with classic Mediterranean flair.
• Bread Swap: Use seasoned Italian breadcrumbs instead of panko for a softer, more traditional coating.

How to Make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Step 1: Prep and Pound the Chicken

Start by slicing each chicken breast in half for thinner, more even pieces. Grab a meat mallet and gently pound them until they’re uniform in thickness—this ensures even cooking and maximizes that juicy bite. Sprinkle both sides lightly with salt to boost the flavor right from the start.

Step 2: Coat with Mayo

Slather both sides of each chicken piece generously with real mayonnaise. Don’t be shy here—the mayo adds flavor, keeps the meat insanely moist, and acts as the magic glue for your crunchy coating.

Step 3: Mix Up the Crust

In a medium bowl, toss together the shredded Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, and garlic powder until beautifully combined. This mixture should look and smell so tempting you want to sneak a taste already!

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Press each mayo-coated chicken piece firmly into the Parmesan panko mixture, turning and pressing to get every nook and cranny covered. The crust should cling generously and look deliciously thick.

Step 5: Air Fry to Crispy Perfection

Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (199°C). Arrange the coated chicken pieces in a single layer—don’t overcrowd! Cook for 15 minutes, turning each piece after 10 minutes so every side gets that crave-worthy, golden crunch. Get ready for your kitchen to smell incredible.

How to Serve Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil over your Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken for a pop of color and herbal brightness. A squeeze of fresh lemon lift the flavors, while extra shaved Parmesan adds irresistible richness right before serving.

Side Dishes

This golden chicken pairs beautifully with classic sides like roasted vegetables, a simple Caesar salad, or buttery garlic noodles. For a low-carb feast, serve alongside zoodles or crispy air fryer broccoli—the crunch on crunch is downright heavenly.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the chicken and serve over a vibrant salad for a bistro-style lunch, or tuck strips into toasted buns with lettuce and tomato for a crave-worthy sandwich. For an elegant twist, plate with a swirl of marinara and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an easy “chicken Parmesan” vibe—straight from your air fryer!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), let the Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll stay tasty and crisp for up to 3 days—perfect for easy lunches or quick dinners!

Freezing

Want to meal-prep in advance? Freeze the cooked, cooled chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid. They keep well for up to 2 months, ready to reheat whenever you need a fast, satisfying meal.

Reheating

To recapture the crispiness, reheat chicken in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes, or until warmed through. The oven works too, but skip the microwave to preserve that dreamy crust!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken a spot on your dinner rotation. It’s crunchy, juicy, and so easy, and I can’t wait for you to bite into that first cheesy, garlic-laced forkful. Your whole kitchen will cheer—promise!

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