Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken
A quick and easy dish featuring a golden, crunchy coating and juicy chicken inside, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions while maintaining a healthier profile through air frying.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless skinless chicken breast
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 0.5 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise Provides moisture and helps the coating stick.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Cooking spray For coating the air fryer basket and chicken.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat each chicken breast dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a shallow bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise over the entire surface of each chicken breast.
- Press each chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture, coating all sides evenly.
Cooking
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket and the coated chicken with cooking spray.
- Place the chicken in a single layer in the basket and cook for 10 minutes.
- Carefully flip the chicken, spray the top with cooking spray, and cook for an additional 5–7 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken and let it rest for 3–5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Serve with a salad, steamed veggies, or pasta. A lemon squeeze or dipping sauces like marinara or ranch enhance the flavor. For better coating, ensure to pat chicken dry and don’t overcrowd the air fryer.