Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

If you’re craving a crispy, cheesy chicken dinner that’s incredibly easy and quick to make, Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is about to become your new weeknight obsession. Tender chicken breast gets a golden, flavor-packed crust—all with just a handful of simple ingredients and less mess than traditional frying. Trust me: one bite, and you’ll wonder where this recipe has been all your life!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken comes together with pantry staples you likely already have, yet every ingredient works hard to create unbeatable flavor and texture. Here’s what makes each component shine.

• 2 Large Chicken Breasts: Splitting and pounding them keeps the cook time quick and ensures juicy, even results.
• 1 cup Parmesan, shredded: For nutty, salty depth and gorgeous golden color in every bite. Freshly shredded makes a big difference!
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs: Panko brings that irresistible crunch; if you want a gluten-free or keto version, you can skip it.
• 1 cup real mayonnaise: Acts as both a flavor booster and the “glue” for your crust—trust me, it keeps the chicken so tender!
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder: Adds aromatic warmth and savory depth, making the whole dish smell mouthwatering as it cooks.
• Salt, to taste: Just a sprinkle wakes up all the flavors.

Variations

One of my favorite things about Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is how easy it is to change things up—whether you’re working around food allergies, following a specific diet, or just want to keep your taste buds excited!

• Keto/Low Carb: Swap out the panko breadcrumbs for extra Parmesan or use crushed pork rinds for a crunchy, keto-friendly crust.
• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne to the breadcrumb mixture for a touch of heat.
• Herb Lover’s Delight: Mix in dried Italian herbs or chopped fresh parsley with the breadcrumb coating for even more aromatic flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free panko or completely omit the breadcrumbs and stick with just Parmesan for the coating.

How to Make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Step 1: Prep Your Chicken

Start by splitting each chicken breast in half lengthwise, so you end up with four thinner cutlets. Place them between two sheets of parchment or plastic wrap and gently pound with a meat mallet until they’re an even thickness—about half an inch is ideal. Sprinkle both sides lightly with salt. This step is the secret to chicken that’s juicy throughout and cooks evenly in the air fryer!

Step 2: Coat with Mayonnaise

Spread a generous layer of real mayonnaise on both sides of each chicken piece. Don’t skimp! The mayo doesn’t just help your coating stick; it also locks in moisture, so your chicken ends up tender and flavorful—not greasy or dry.

Step 3: Make the Crunchy Coating

In a shallow dish, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, shredded Parmesan, and garlic powder. Give it a little stir so everything is evenly combined. If you’re going keto, you can skip the panko—just add a little extra Parmesan instead.

Step 4: Dredge and Coat

One by one, press each mayo-coated chicken piece into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides and pressing down so the crust sticks. Shake off any excess and set the coated pieces on a plate—your hands might get a little messy, but that’s part of the fun!

Step 5: Air Fry to Perfect Crunch

Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (about 200°C). Working in batches if needed, lay the coated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 15 minutes total, but be sure to turn each piece after 10 minutes for even browning. When that crust is a deep golden color and the inside is cooked through, you’re in business!

How to Serve Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Garnishes

For a bright, restaurant-style finish, shower your Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with a little extra grated Parmesan or a handful of freshly chopped parsley. A squeeze of lemon adds zing and cuts the richness with just the right pop of flavor.

Side Dishes

This chicken begs for something fresh and vibrant alongside: a crisp green salad, garlic roasted broccoli, or simple steamed green beans. For an indulgent touch, serve it over buttery mashed potatoes or twirl it beside garlicky spaghetti—classic Italian comfort at home.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the chicken and tuck it into a toasted ciabatta roll for the ultimate Parmesan chicken sandwich. Cut into strips for kid-approved chicken tenders, or layer medallions over a bed of marinara pasta for a lighter, air-fried twist on Chicken Parmigiana. The crunchy coating steals the show every time!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken keeps well for up to 3 days in an airtight container in the fridge. Let it cool first—this keeps that beautiful crust from getting soggy before you tuck it away for lunch or dinner later.

Freezing

Want to prep ahead? You can freeze cooked chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

For that “just-fried” texture, pop leftovers back in the air fryer at 350°F for 4–6 minutes, flipping once. Avoid the microwave—it’ll make the breadcrumb coating soft instead of crispy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I hope this Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe finds a spot in your regular dinner rotation! There’s something so satisfying about that cheesy, golden crust with tender chicken within. Give it a try—you might just be surprised at how easy and delicious air fryer cooking can be. Enjoy every bite!

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