Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo

Air fryer Parmesan crusted chicken with mayo is a quick and easy recipe that delivers tender, juicy chicken with a golden, crispy crust. The mayonnaise locks in moisture and helps the Parmesan and breadcrumbs stick, making this dish a family favorite for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or Italian-style)
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp black pepper
Cooking spray

Instructions

Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
Prepare the Mayo Mixture:
- In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper until well combined.
Coat the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Spread the mayo mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs generously over the mayo-coated side, pressing gently to adhere.
Cook the Chicken:
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the chicken breasts in the basket, breadcrumb-side up, in a single layer.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Serve:
- Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. Pair with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or rice for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Use Even-Sized Breasts: Pound the chicken to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
Customize the Flavor: Add a pinch of cayenne or Italian seasoning to the mayo mixture for extra flavor.
Crispier Coating: Spray the breadcrumbs lightly with cooking spray before air frying for a more golden crust.
Reheat in Air Fryer: Leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to restore crispiness.