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Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo Recipe

This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is the ultimate easy and crispy chicken recipe! The mayo and parmesan mixture creates a juicy, flavorful interior with a golden, crunchy crust. Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or meal prep.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Course Main Course, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:

  • 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (or 4 smaller fillets)
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning optional

For Serving (Optional):

  • Chopped fresh parsley
  • Lemon wedges
  • Marinara sauce for dipping

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

  • Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes.
  • If the chicken breasts are thick, slice them in half lengthwise for even cooking.
  • Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Make the Coating

  • In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  • In another bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs and Italian seasoning.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

  • Spread a layer of the mayo-parmesan mixture over each chicken piece.
  • Press the breadcrumb mixture onto the chicken to create an even crust.

Step 4: Air Fry the Chicken

  • Lightly grease the air fryer basket.
  • Place the chicken in a single layer.
  • Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

  • Let the chicken rest for 2–3 minutes.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

  • Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes to maintain crispiness.
  • Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free panko or almond flour.
  • Keto-Friendly Alternative: Swap breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds.
  • Add a Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.