Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a game changer for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. With its crispy exterior and juicy interior, this dish is bound to impress. In just under 15 minutes, you can whip up a flavorful meal that suits any occasion, from casual dinners to festive gatherings. The unique combination of mayonnaise and parmesan creates a delightful crust that elevates the chicken breast to new heights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in less than 15 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
• Crispy Texture: The air fryer gives a satisfying crunch without deep frying.
• Flavor Packed: Seasoned with garlic and Italian herbs for a robust taste.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a main course or sliced for salads and sandwiches.
• Easy Cleanup: Minimal mess and hassle, making cooking stress-free.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools on hand makes cooking this Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken even easier. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Meat tenderizer or rolling pin
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowls
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: Cooks the chicken quickly while providing a crispy texture without excess oil.
• Meat tenderizer: Ensures even cooking by flattening the chicken fillets for uniform thickness.
• Cutting board: A safe surface for preparing your ingredients, protecting your countertops.
• Mixing bowls: Helps combine ingredients easily, making the preparation process straightforward.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken

• 2 large boneless and skinless chicken breasts (sliced horizontally to make 4 fillets)
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano or parsley leaves (to garnish)

For the Coating

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 minced garlic cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• salt (to taste)

For the Crunchy Coating

• 1 cup fresh grated parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

How to Make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (199°C). This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and gets that desired crispiness.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Fillets

Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create four fillets. Place each fillet on a cutting board, cover with plastic wrap, and pound to an even thickness using a meat tenderizer or rolling pin.

Step 3: Make the Mayo Mixture

In a small bowl:
1. Combine 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and salt.
2. Mix well until combined.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Divide the mayo mixture among the fillets, spreading it evenly over each piece of chicken. In another shallow bowl, mix together 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs and 1 cup fresh grated parmesan cheese. Dredge each fillet in the mixture, pressing lightly to ensure it sticks well.

Step 5: Cook in the Air Fryer

Place the coated chicken fillets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for about 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). At around halfway through cooking (5-6 minutes), carefully flip each fillet using tongs for even browning.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once cooked:
Remove from air fryer and garnish with fresh oregano or parsley leaves. Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken!

How to Serve Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

This air fryer parmesan crusted chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. It pairs well with various sides and garnishes, making it perfect for any meal.

With Fresh Salad

• A light and refreshing salad adds a nice crunch. Try a simple green salad with vinaigrette.

Over Pasta

• Serve the chicken over a bed of spaghetti or fettuccine for a filling dish. Top with marinara sauce for added flavor.

With Garlic Bread

• Pair the chicken with garlic bread to soak up any juices. It’s a great side that complements the crispy texture.

On a Bun

• For a fun twist, slice the chicken and put it on a bun with lettuce and tomato for a delicious sandwich.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus make for a healthy side that balances out the meal.

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How to Perfect Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

To achieve the best results with your air fryer parmesan crusted chicken, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose Quality Chicken: Use fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for better flavor and texture.
• Even Thickness: Pound the chicken fillets to an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs elevate the flavor profile significantly.
• Don’t Skip Preheating: Preheating your air fryer helps achieve that perfect crispy crust.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F for safe consumption.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs for unique variations.

Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Pairing your air fryer parmesan crusted chicken with delightful sides can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a hearty companion.
2. Steamed Broccoli: A simple yet nutritious side that adds color and vitamins to your plate.
3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing pairs beautifully with the savory chicken.
4. Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa mixed with vegetables makes for a healthy alternative to rice.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
6. Rice Pilaf: Flavored rice pilaf can complement the parmesan crust wonderfully while adding texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making air fryer parmesan crusted chicken, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here’s what to watch out for.

• Skipping the pounding step: Not pounding the chicken can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure each fillet is even for best results.
• Not preheating the air fryer: Failing to preheat can result in longer cooking times and less crispy chicken. Always preheat your air fryer before adding the chicken.
• Overcrowding the basket: Placing too many fillets at once can prevent air circulation, leading to soggy pieces. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Ignoring internal temperature: Cooking without checking the internal temperature may result in undercooked chicken. Always ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Not using enough seasoning: Skimping on seasoning can leave your chicken bland. Be generous with spices and flavorings for a delicious dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• Place cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a little oil, flipping until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I achieve crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

To get that perfect crispiness, be sure to coat each fillet well with parmesan and panko breadcrumbs. The air fryer’s hot air circulation helps create a crunchy exterior.

Can I use other cheeses besides parmesan?

Absolutely! While parmesan gives a great flavor, you can experiment with mozzarella or cheddar. Just adjust the quantities as needed.

How long does it take to cook Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

Cooking time typically ranges from 10-12 minutes at 390°F (199°C), depending on the thickness of your fillets.

What sides pair well with Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

This dish goes well with salads, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes. Feel free to get creative with your sides!

Final Thoughts

Air fryer parmesan crusted chicken is not only quick and easy but also full of flavor and texture that everyone will love. You can customize this recipe by adding different herbs or spices according to your taste. Give it a try and enjoy this delightful meal!