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If you’re craving a deliciously crispy chicken dinner with a flavorful twist, this Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is the recipe you’ve been waiting for. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a crunchy parmesan crust and a creamy, garlicky mayonnaise sauce that will have everyone at the table asking for more. The air fryer makes it incredibly easy to prepare, yielding a perfectly crispy crust without the need for deep frying. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this recipe delivers both flavor and convenience in every bite.

What makes this dish stand out is the balance of textures and flavors. The chicken fillets are coated in a crispy, golden parmesan and panko breadcrumb mixture, then topped with a rich, garlicky mayonnaise sauce that adds a savory depth. The result is a meal that’s both satisfying and light, without sacrificing flavor. It’s simple, easy to make, and perfect for those looking to add a little extra pizzazz to their chicken dinners. With the help of your air fryer, dinner can be on the table in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Air Fryer Convenience

Using an air fryer means you can enjoy crispy chicken without the mess of deep frying. It’s a healthier way to get that perfect golden crust.

2. Flavorful Parmesan Crust

The parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs create a crispy, savory coating that adds texture and rich flavor to each bite.

3. Creamy Garlic Mayonnaise

The homemade garlic mayonnaise elevates the chicken with a creamy, tangy, and slightly garlicky kick that perfectly complements the crispy crust.

4. Quick and Easy

This recipe is simple to make, with minimal ingredients and a quick cooking time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.

5. Customizable Garnish

You can top the chicken with fresh oregano or parsley leaves for a burst of color and freshness, enhancing both the flavor and presentation.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

Large boneless and skinless chicken breasts, sliced horizontally into 4 fillets
Fresh oregano or parsley leaves (for garnish)

For the Garlic Mayonnaise:

Mayonnaise
Minced garlic cloves
Onion powder
Italian seasoning
Garlic powder (optional)
Salt to taste

For the Parmesan Coating:

Freshly grated parmesan cheese
Panko breadcrumbs

Variations

Add Lemon Zest: For a fresh and zesty twist, mix lemon zest into the parmesan coating or sprinkle it over the finished chicken.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the mayonnaise for a spicy variation.
Cheese Lovers: Mix some mozzarella cheese into the parmesan coating for an extra cheesy layer of goodness.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Slice the chicken breasts horizontally to create 4 even fillets. If the breasts are thick, you can gently pound them to an even thickness for better cooking results.
Pat the chicken fillets dry with paper towels to ensure the coating sticks well.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Mayonnaise

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, garlic powder (if using), and salt. Stir well to combine.
Set the garlic mayonnaise aside for later use.

Step 3: Prepare the Parmesan Coating

In a shallow dish, combine the grated parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs. Stir until the mixture is well combined.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken fillet into the parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to coat each side evenly.
Make sure the chicken is fully covered in the crispy mixture.

Step 5: Air Fry the Chicken

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Place the coated chicken fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap.
Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 6: Serve

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and place it on a serving platter.
Top with a dollop of the garlic mayonnaise and garnish with fresh oregano or parsley.

Tips for Making the Recipe

If you want an extra crispy crust, spray the coated chicken fillets lightly with cooking spray before air frying.
Be sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook the chicken in batches if necessary.
If you prefer a richer garlic flavor, let the garlic mayonnaise sit for 15-30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

How to Serve

Serve this crispy chicken with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or your favorite dipping sauces. It pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or a light pasta dish for a full meal. You can also serve it as a sandwich by placing the chicken fillets in a soft bun with additional garlic mayo and fresh greens.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken fillets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to regain some crispiness.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked, cooled chicken fillets. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, place the chicken back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, but it’s best to thaw the chicken first for even cooking and to ensure the coating sticks properly.

2. Can I bake this instead of using an air fryer?

Yes, you can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through.

3. Can I make the garlic mayo ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the garlic mayo up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

4. Can I use other types of cheese for the crust?

Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses like asiago, pecorino, or even a combination of cheeses for a different flavor.

5. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You can check this using a meat thermometer.

6. Can I use a different type of breading?

Yes, you can substitute the panko breadcrumbs with regular breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or even ground nuts for a different texture.

7. Can I use light mayonnaise for the garlic mayo?

Yes, light mayonnaise can be used as a substitute, but the flavor and creaminess may be slightly different.

8. Can I add spices to the parmesan coating?

Yes, you can add spices like paprika, chili powder, or dried herbs to the parmesan and breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.

9. Can I make this recipe without mayo?

Yes, if you’re not a fan of mayo, you can skip it or replace it with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy alternative.

10. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary, as thighs may take a little longer to cook.

Conclusion

This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is a deliciously crispy and creamy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender chicken, a crunchy parmesan crust, and rich garlic mayo creates a flavor-packed meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just getting started with your air fryer, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for an easy and satisfying dinner option. Enjoy!