Easy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe That Wows Every Time

Parmesan crusted chicken crafts ordinary poultry into a crispy, golden-brown delight that instantly elevates mealtime.

Lean protein meets crunchy coating in this irresistible dish that promises maximum flavor with minimal effort.

The air fryer works its magic, creating a perfectly seasoned exterior that locks in juicy tenderness.

Cheese and herbs meld together, forming a delectable crust that crackles with each bite.

Weeknight cooking becomes an exciting culinary adventure when you harness the power of this simple yet sophisticated technique.

Health-conscious food lovers appreciate how air frying reduces oil while maintaining incredible texture and taste.

This recipe offers a smart solution for anyone craving restaurant-quality chicken without complicated preparation or excessive calories.

Why Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Is the Crispy Crave

• Effortless Flavor Explosion: This air fryer parmesan crusted chicken delivers maximum taste with minimal effort, creating a crispy, cheesy exterior that locks in juicy chicken goodness.
• Lightning-Fast Cooking Method: The air fryer technology transforms ordinary chicken into a restaurant-quality meal in just 10-12 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners or quick lunch preparations.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: With its golden-brown parmesan crust and simple seasoning blend, this recipe appeals to both kids and adults, easily customizable for different taste preferences and dietary needs.
• Healthier Indulgence: By using an air fryer, you get the satisfying crunch of fried chicken without excess oil, resulting in a lighter, more nutritious meal that doesn't sacrifice flavor or texture.

Ingredients That Make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Crunch

• Chicken Breast: Lean protein that becomes juicy and tender when cooked in the air fryer, best when fresh and at room temperature before cooking.

• Mayonnaise, Minced Garlic, Onion Powder, Italian Seasoning, Garlic Powder, Salt: Creamy base that helps seasonings stick to chicken and adds rich flavor, ensuring moisture and taste in every bite.

• Panko Breadcrumbs, Grated Parmesan Cheese: Crispy texture that provides golden brown exterior with a nutty, savory cheese flavor, traditional breadcrumbs can be used as alternative.

• Fresh Oregano, Fresh Parsley: Optional herbs that add bright color and fresh aromatic finish to the dish, can be chopped or left as whole leaves.

Simple Steps for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Step 1: Prepare Air Fryer

Heat the air fryer to 390°F. Ensure the basket is clean and ready for cooking.

Step 2: Transform Chicken Fillets

• Place chicken breasts on a cutting board
• Cover with plastic wrap
• Slice each breast horizontally
• Pound with a rolling pin until thin and even

Step 3: Create Flavor Coating

• Mayonnaise
• Minced garlic
• Onion powder
• Italian seasoning
• Garlic powder
• Salt

Spread mixture evenly across each chicken fillet.

Step 4: Develop Crispy Exterior

• Panko breadcrumbs
• Grated parmesan cheese

Coat each chicken fillet thoroughly, pressing coating gently to stick.

Step 5: Cook Chicken

Place fillets in air fryer basket carefully.

Cook for 10-12 minutes.

Flip chicken halfway through cooking using tongs.

Check internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Remove chicken from air fryer.

Sprinkle with fresh herbs like oregano or parsley.

Plate immediately and enjoy your crispy chicken.

Tips for Crunchy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• Slice Smartly: Cut chicken breasts horizontally for uniform thickness, ensuring even cooking and tender results.
• Coat Thoroughly: Press parmesan mixture firmly onto chicken, creating a complete, crispy exterior that locks in moisture.
• Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to confirm chicken reaches 165°F, preventing undercooking and ensuring food safety.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Space chicken fillets in air fryer basket to allow hot air circulation, promoting perfect golden-brown crispiness.
• Rest Before Serving: Let chicken sit for 2-3 minutes after cooking to help juices redistribute, keeping meat succulent and flavorful.

The Best Way to Store and Reheat This Chicken Dish

• Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
• Reheating in Air Fryer: Warm chicken at 350°F for 3-4 minutes, checking internal temperature reaches 165°F. Spritz with olive oil to prevent dryness and restore crispy coating.
• Microwave Alternative: Reheat on medium power for 30-45 seconds, covering with a damp paper towel to preserve moisture. Check temperature and add additional short bursts if needed to prevent overcooking.

Sides That Pair with Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• Savor Zesty Mediterranean Salad Companion: Pair the crispy parmesan chicken with a light Greek salad featuring cucumber, tomatoes, red onions, and feta cheese, drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice for a refreshing contrast.
• Elevate with Crisp White Wine Pairing: Complement the chicken's rich parmesan crust with a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, whose bright acidity cuts through the creamy coating and enhances the meal's flavors.
• Create Herby Roasted Vegetable Side: Serve alongside rosemary-infused roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus, which add nutritious texture and earthy undertones that beautifully balance the chicken's cheesy exterior.
• Match with Tangy Dipping Sauce: Prepare a quick garlic aioli or herb-infused ranch dressing for an extra layer of creamy, zesty goodness that elevates the chicken's already delicious parmesan crust.

Ways to Switch Up Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• Spicy Ranch Chicken Crunch: Replace mayonnaise mixture with ranch seasoning and add red pepper flakes for extra heat. Coat chicken with spicy breadcrumb blend for a zesty kick.
• Mediterranean Herb Chicken: Swap Italian seasoning for dried oregano, thyme, and za'atar. Use feta cheese instead of parmesan and add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the coating for Mediterranean flavors.
• Coconut Curry Chicken: Mix curry powder into mayonnaise and use shredded coconut with panko for coating. Sprinkle additional turmeric and ginger powder for an aromatic Indian-inspired version.
• Lemon Herb Crispy Chicken: Incorporate fresh lemon zest into mayonnaise mixture. Add chopped fresh herbs like dill and chives to breadcrumb coating for a bright, refreshing profile.

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

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4.5 from 22 reviews

• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Crispy parmesan crusted chicken elevates weeknight dinner with golden, herb-infused breading that shatters delicately against juicy meat. Home cooks can quickly prepare this restaurant-quality dish using simple ingredients and an air fryer for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 2 large boneless and skinless chicken breasts, sliced horizontally to make 4 fillets

Coating Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh grated parmesan cheese
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs

Seasoning and Garnish:

• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• Salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano or parsley leaves (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Configure the air fryer to 390°F (199°C), allowing it to heat thoroughly while preparing the chicken.
2. Transform chicken breasts into thinner fillets by slicing horizontally and gently pounding them between plastic wrap to create uniform thickness.
3. Craft a flavorful coating by blending mayonnaise with garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt until well incorporated.
4. Generously spread the seasoned mayonnaise mixture across each chicken fillet, ensuring complete and even coverage.
5. Create a crispy exterior by mixing panko breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese in a shallow dish.
6. Meticulously coat each fillet in the parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help the crust adhere and completely cover the chicken.
7. Carefully arrange the crusted fillets inside the air fryer basket, maintaining space between each piece for optimal circulation.
8. Initiate cooking for 10-12 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through to promote uniform golden-brown coloration and consistent cooking.
9. Verify doneness by confirming the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.
10. Elevate the presentation by garnishing with fresh oregano or parsley leaves.
11. Serve immediately while the chicken remains crisp and warm.

Notes

• Meal Prep Magic: Slice and pound chicken breasts horizontally for uniform thickness, ensuring even cooking and tender results.
• Flavor Boost: Mix mayonnaise with garlic and seasonings to create a delicious, moisture-locking marinade that enhances chicken’s taste and juiciness.
• Crispy Coating Trick: Press parmesan and panko breadcrumbs firmly onto chicken to create a crunchy, golden exterior that seals in moisture.
• Temperature Precision: Use a meat thermometer to confirm chicken reaches 165°F internally, guaranteeing safe and perfectly cooked protein.
• Flipping Technique: Rotate chicken halfway through cooking to achieve consistent golden-brown color and prevent uneven browning.
• Fresh Finish: Sprinkle fresh herbs like oregano or parsley just before serving to add a bright, aromatic touch to the dish.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 495
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 724mg
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 22g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 97mg