The aroma of crispy, golden-brown chicken wafting through your kitchen is enough to make anyone weak in the knees. Imagine biting into tender chicken coated in a crunchy, cheesy crust that practically sings with flavor. That’s exactly what you get with Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo—a dish that promises not just a meal but a culinary experience you won’t soon forget.
Picture this: your friends are gathered for game night, and you’re about to unveil the star of the evening. With each bite of this delectable chicken, laughter fills the room as everyone savors the perfect balance of creamy mayo and nutty parmesan. It’s not just food; it’s an event!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This recipe simplifies dinner prep while delivering incredible flavor.
- The crispy exterior and juicy interior create a perfect combination for every palate.
- Visually stunning, it will impress guests or make any weeknight feel special.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with various sides or salads!
Ingredients for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but adjust based on your crowd size.
Mayonnaise: Full-fat mayo provides the best flavor and creates a wonderful base for the crust.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan works wonders; it melts beautifully and adds a sharp flavor.
Bread Crumbs: Use plain or seasoned bread crumbs for added texture and crunch.
Garlic Powder: A sprinkle brings out the savory flavors without overpowering the dish.
Paprika: This adds a touch of color and subtle smokiness that enhances the overall taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to preheat at 400°F (200°C) for about five minutes. This ensures your chicken gets that perfect golden crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Take your boneless chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because who wants soggy chicken? Season both sides with salt and pepper for added flavor.
Step 3: Create the Crust Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, grated parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix until everything is well-coated and resembles a thick paste—like something you’d want to spread on toast (but don’t!).
Step 4: Coat Each Breast
Generously spread your mayo mixture over each chicken breast. No need to be shy; slather it on thick! You want every bite packed with flavor.
Step 5: Arrange in Air Fryer
Place the coated chicken breasts into your air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure they’re not crowded; we don’t want any sad chicken here!
Step 6: Cook & Enjoy
Air fry for about 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the tops are gloriously golden brown. When done, plate them up and watch as everyone rushes to dig in!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Now you have an irresistible Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo that’s sure to impress family or guests alike! Enjoy this delightful dish at cozy family dinners or lively gatherings—you may find it hard not to make it a weekly staple!
You Must Know
- This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo recipe is not just simple; it’s a game changer for busy weeknights.
- With crispy golden edges and juicy interiors, it’s the perfect crowd-pleaser.
- Plus, you can adjust the seasoning to match your taste buds.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your air fryer while you prepare the chicken. Coat each piece generously with mayo, then dip it in a mix of breadcrumbs and parmesan. Cook in the air fryer for 15-20 minutes until golden and crispy.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the parmesan for cheddar or add some spices like paprika or garlic powder for an extra kick. You could even throw in some herbs like parsley or basil to elevate the flavor profile further.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them back into the air fryer for about five minutes to regain that delightful crunch!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly crispy chicken, ensure your air fryer is preheated properly before cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket; give each piece space to breathe!
- Lastly, let the chicken rest a few minutes after cooking for juicy perfection.
It was one of those chaotic weeknights when my friends unexpectedly dropped by. I whipped up this Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo, and watching their faces light up was priceless!
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo?
To make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo, gather boneless chicken breasts, mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Optionally, you can add Italian herbs for extra flavor. This simple list of ingredients ensures a deliciously crispy crust without much fuss or complicated preparation. The combination of mayo and Parmesan creates a moist chicken that is packed with flavor.
How long does it take to cook Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo?
Cooking Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo typically takes about 15-20 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Preheat your air fryer for about 5 minutes before adding the coated chicken. Check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Cooking times may vary based on the thickness of your chicken breasts, so it’s advisable to keep an eye on them during the cooking process.
Can I use other types of cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese in your Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo. While Parmesan gives a unique flavor and texture, alternatives like mozzarella or cheddar can also work well. Just remember that each type of cheese will impact the overall taste and crispness. Feel free to mix cheeses for a more complex flavor profile that suits your personal preference.
Is this recipe healthy?
Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken because it uses less oil and retains moisture through the mayo. While mayo adds some fat, using it in moderation can contribute to a balanced diet. Additionally, baking in an air fryer helps reduce calories compared to deep frying while still achieving that satisfying crunch we all love.
Conclusion for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo:
In conclusion, Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is an easy and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With minimal ingredients and quick cooking time, it delivers incredible taste without compromising health. The combination of crunchy parmesan and creamy mayo results in juicy chicken that everyone will enjoy. Give this recipe a try; it might just become a family favorite!
Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo
Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is your new go-to dish for a quick, flavorful meal. This recipe transforms tender chicken breasts into a crispy sensation, enveloped in a delightful blend of mayonnaise, parmesan cheese, and spices. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this dish promises to impress everyone at the table with its golden-brown crust and juicy interior.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 600g)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (100g)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (100g)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
- Pat chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and paprika until well combined.
- Generously coat each chicken breast with the mayo mixture.
- Place coated chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 15-20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and tops are golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs like parsley or basil into the crust mixture. - Feel free to substitute parmesan with cheddar or mozzarella for a different taste. - Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat in the air fryer for optimal crispiness.
