Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

Crispy, golden chicken with a parmesan crusted air fryer chicken recipe that turns ordinary poultry into a restaurant-worthy meal in minutes.

The delicate coating locks in moisture while creating an irresistibly crunchy exterior.

Each bite promises a perfect blend of seasoned breadcrumbs and nutty parmesan cheese.

This simple yet elegant dish comes together quickly with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

You’ll love how the air fryer creates that restaurant-quality crunch without excess oil.

The result is a lean, protein-packed meal that feels indulgent yet healthy.

Dive into this mouthwatering recipe and experience chicken like never before.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 12 minutes

Total Time: 22 minutes

Calories: 380 kcal

Servings: 5

Ingredients in Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• Chicken Breast: Lean protein powerhouse, choose fresh, plump breasts without discoloration or odd smell for best texture.
• Mayonnaise: Creamy binding agent that ensures juicy chicken and helps seasoning stick perfectly.

• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Concentrated flavor bombs that enhance overall taste profile without adding moisture.
• Italian Seasoning: Aromatic herb mix that delivers Mediterranean-inspired complexity to the chicken.
• Salt: Essential flavor enhancer that balances and amplifies other ingredients.

• Panko Breadcrumbs: Ultra-light, crunchy Japanese-style crumbs that create irresistible golden exterior.
• Parmesan Cheese: Sharp, nutty cheese that adds sophisticated flavor and helps create crispy, golden-brown crust.
• Fresh Oregano or Parsley: Vibrant green herbs for fresh garnish that brightens final presentation and adds subtle herbaceous note.

Tools for Crispy Parmesan Chicken

• Cutting Board: Sturdy surface for slicing and preparing chicken.
• Meat Tenderizer or Rolling Pin: Helps pound chicken to even thickness.
• Sharp Knife: Essential for slicing chicken breasts horizontally.
• Small Mixing Bowl: Used for combining mayonnaise and seasonings.
• Shallow Bowl: Perfect for mixing breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese.
• Air Fryer: Primary cooking appliance for crispy chicken.
• Tongs: Helpful for flipping chicken during cooking.
• Measuring Spoons: For accurate seasoning measurements.

Air Frying Parmesan Chicken Instructions

Parmesan Crunch Chicken Delight

• Chicken Prep

Slice chicken breasts into thin, even fillets. Gently pound each piece to create uniform thickness for perfect cooking.

• Flavor Magic

Create a creamy spread by blending mayonnaise with garlic, herbs, and seasonings. This magical mixture will infuse incredible taste into every bite.

• Crispy Coating

Mix panko breadcrumbs with parmesan cheese to build an irresistible crunchy exterior. Generously coat each chicken piece, pressing firmly to lock in the delicious layers.

• Air Fryer Transformation

Arrange chicken pieces in the air fryer basket. Cook at high heat until the outside turns golden and crispy while maintaining juicy tenderness inside. Flip midway to ensure beautiful, even browning.

• Finishing Touch

Sprinkle fresh herbs over the hot chicken. Serve immediately while the coating remains wonderfully crunchy and the inside stays succulent.

Variations for Parmesan Chicken Flavor

• Mix different herbs like thyme or rosemary into the mayo mixture for extra flavor depth.
• Add panko breadcrumbs to the parmesan coating for maximum crunchiness and a perfect golden exterior.
• Replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a keto-friendly version that still delivers incredible texture.
• Sprinkle red pepper flakes or cayenne into the parmesan coating to introduce a delightful kick of heat for those who enjoy some spiciness.

Serving Up Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• Fresh Herb Garnish Paradise: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley, oregano, or basil on top for a burst of vibrant color and zesty flavor that elevates the entire dish.
• Zesty Side Companion: Pair with a crisp cucumber salad, roasted Mediterranean vegetables, or garlic-infused rice to create a complete and satisfying meal that complements the chicken's rich parmesan crust.
• Sauce Dipping Delight: Serve alongside tangy marinara sauce, creamy garlic aioli, or light ranch dressing for an extra layer of flavor that allows guests to customize their dining experience and add moisture to the crispy chicken.
• Salad Transformation Trick: Transform this chicken into a protein-packed salad topper by slicing it over mixed greens, adding cherry tomatoes, and drizzling with a light vinaigrette for a quick and delicious lunch option.

Best Storage Tips for Air Fried Chicken

• Fridge Fresh Storage: Keep leftover chicken in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Seal tightly to maintain moisture and prevent flavor loss.
• Quick Reheat Technique: Warm chicken in air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to retain crispy coating. Avoid microwave to prevent soggy texture.
• Meal Prep Magic: Prepare chicken fillets ahead and store uncooked in refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Coat with parmesan mixture just before cooking for maximum crispiness.
• Freezer Friendly Option: Wrap individual cooked chicken fillets in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Store frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.

Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

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4.8 from 31 reviews

• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: 5 1x

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Description

Crispy parmesan crusted chicken delights home cooks seeking quick weeknight meals. Juicy chicken breasts with golden parmesan coating offer simple elegance you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 chicken breasts, large, boneless and skinless, sliced horizontally to make 4 fillets
• 1 cup parmesan cheese, fresh grated
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
• Salt to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh oregano or parsley leaves (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preparation: Preheat air fryer to 390°F (199°C), ensuring thorough heating while preparing chicken fillets.
2. Chicken Modification: Slice chicken breasts horizontally and gently pound between plastic wrap to achieve uniform thickness.
3. Flavor Infusion: Blend mayonnaise with garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt into a smooth, aromatic mixture.
4. Coating Application: Spread seasoned mayonnaise comprehensively across each chicken fillet, ensuring complete and even coverage.
5. Crisp Exterior Creation: Combine panko breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese in a shallow dish for a crunchy coating.
6. Breading Process: Thoroughly coat each fillet in the parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly to create an adherent crust.
7. Air Frying: Position crusted fillets in the air fryer basket, allowing sufficient space between pieces for optimal air circulation.
8. Cooking Cycle: Air fry for 10-12 minutes, rotating chicken midway to achieve uniform golden-brown coloration and ensure thorough cooking.
9. Doneness Verification: Check internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer to guarantee food safety.
10. Presentation: Garnish with fresh oregano or parsley leaves and serve immediately while maintaining crisp texture and warmth.

Notes

• Pound Perfectly: Create uniform thickness by gently pounding chicken breasts between plastic wrap for even cooking and consistent texture.
• Coating Technique: Press parmesan-breadcrumb mixture firmly onto chicken to ensure a crisp, adhering crust that won’t fall off during air frying.
• Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to confirm chicken reaches 165°F (74°C), guaranteeing safe and juicy results every time.
• Space Matters: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to allow proper hot air circulation, which helps achieve a golden-brown, crispy exterior.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 620 mg
• Fat: 24 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 8 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 32 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg