When summer rolls around, my family and friends start to crowd around the grill, looking for anything crispy, savory, and hearty. We often dive into a platter of grilled veggies or pasta salad, but lately, I’ve discovered something that pairs just perfectly with those sides: Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken with Mayo.
This dish has become the star attraction, stealing the show with its irresistible crispy coating and juicy chicken beneath. Just a whiff of that garlic-infused mayo takes it up a notch. Honestly, is there a better combo than chicken and mayo? Trust me when I say that this will transform your summer gatherings!
Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken with Mayo is not just a quick dinner fix; it’s a game-changer. With its golden crust and flavorful chicken, it’s perfect for family dinners, entertaining guests, or even meal prep for the week ahead.
And the real kicker? It’s surprisingly easy to whip up. If you’re looking for a crispy chicken experience without all the grease, then you’re in for a treat. Plus, this dish can be made in your air fryer, which keeps things simple and clean. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
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What is air fryer parmesan chicken with mayo?
This dish features succulent chicken breasts that are split into fillets and coated in a tasty mixture of Parmesan cheese, crunchy breadcrumbs, and a special garlic mayo. The air fryer works like magic to give you that beautiful golden exterior while keeping the chicken juicy inside. In just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a meal that rivals anything you’d find at a restaurant. It’s like bringing that gourmet experience into your home without any fuss!
What is the flavor profile of this dish?
The flavor profile is a delightful harmony of savory and rich notes, thanks to the Parmesan cheese and garlic in the mayo. When you take a bite, you will first experience the crispy, cheesy coating that’s oh-so-satisfying. Then, you’ll hit the tender chicken that offers a juicy, flavorful bite. The garlic mayo adds a creamy touch that elevates the whole dish without overwhelming it. Trust me, your taste buds will dance!
Why You’ll Love this dish?
You’ll love Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken with Mayo for several fantastic reasons. First, it ticks all the boxes: it’s quick to make, full of flavor, and offers that satisfying crunch without deep frying. Second, it’s versatile. You can pair it with almost anything—salads, grains, or dip it in more mayo for good measure. Finally, if you’re in a rush or planning ahead, the air fryer makes the process almost effortless. It’s a dream come true for busy weeknights!
The Ingredients
Here’s the magic list of ingredients for making this delicious dish:
– 2 large boneless chicken breasts, sliced in half to create 4 fillets
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or oregano leaves (for garnish)
– For the Garlic Mayo:
– 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
– Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon juice (adds zing)
– For the Parmesan Coating:
– 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Optional: 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a little extra flavor)
These ingredients come together to create a dish that’s not just tasty but also a delightful experience to prepare.
Ingredients From : chefjar.com
How to make air fryer parmesan chicken with mayo?
Making Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken with Mayo involves simple and straightforward steps. Here’s how to get started:
Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Begin by preheating your air fryer to 390°F (199°C). This is an important step, as it ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and achieves that lovely crisp texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Take your two large boneless chicken breasts and slice them horizontally, creating four fillets. Place each fillet on a cutting board and cover it with plastic wrap. Using a rolling pin or meat tenderizer, gently pound the chicken until it’s an even thickness. This step helps in cooking the chicken evenly and keeping it juicy.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Mayo
In a small mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup of mayonnaise with two minced garlic cloves, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and optional garlic powder. Add salt to taste, and for a refreshing twist, consider mixing in a tablespoon of lemon juice. This adds a lovely brightness to the dish. Mix it all well until you have a smooth, creamy blend.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Spread the garlic mayo mixture generously over each fillet, ensuring they are well-coated. This mayo will not just create flavor but also help the cheese mixture stick beautifully.
Step 5: Mix the Parmesan Coating
In another shallow bowl, mix together your grated Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs. If you’re adding an optional touch of smoky flavor, toss in some smoked paprika. This combination will add a crispy, cheesy coating that’s out of this world.
Step 6: Dredge the Chicken
Take each fillet and dredge it in the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture. Make sure to press down lightly on the coating with your tongs to get it to stick. After coating one side, flip it over and repeat, ensuring you shake off any excess.
Step 7: Air Fry the Chicken
Place the coated chicken fillets in the basket of your air fryer, making sure they are arranged in a single layer for even cooking. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until they turn golden brown. Midway through, about 5-6 minutes in, pause the cooking and carefully flip the chicken over using tongs to ensure both sides get that delicious crisp.
Step 8: Garnish and Enjoy!
Once the internal temperature reaches 165°F, remove the chicken and let it rest for a minute. Garnish with fresh parsley or oregano leaves. Serve it hot and enjoy the delightful crispy chicken as a part of your meal!
Tips
– Pound Evenly: Ensure that the chicken is pounded to an even thickness. This helps in achieving uniform cooking.
– Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to mix in your favorite spices into the breadcrumb mixture for added kick.
– Don’t Skip the Preheat: Preheating the air fryer ensures even cooking and crispy results.
– Use High-Quality Ingredients: The better the quality of your cheese and mayo, the more flavorful the dish!
– Batch Cook: If you have more chicken, cook in batches instead of overcrowding the basket for best results.
How Can You Store This Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken with Mayo?
Storing Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken with Mayo is simple. Let the chicken cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to three days. If you plan on storing it longer, consider freezing the cooked chicken. For freezing, wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat in the air fryer for about 5-7 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to recapture that crispiness.
If Some Ingredients Are Not Available in Your Pantry, What Are Some Alternative Choices You Can Consider?
Here are some alternatives if you’re low on specific ingredients:
– Mayonnaise: Greek Yogurt can be used instead for a healthier option. It brings a similar creamy texture.
– Parmesan Cheese: Pecorino Romano offers a slightly sharper flavor and is a great substitute.
– Panko Breadcrumbs: Regular Bread Crumbs will also work, though they may not provide quite the same crunch.
– Fresh Herbs: Dried Herbs can replace fresh ones in a pinch; use about a third of the amount needed.
– Garlic: If you’re without fresh garlic, garlic powder can take its place, though reduce the amount to about half.
Nutrition Information
A serving of Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken with Mayo has approximately 360 calories, with a good balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. It offers about 25 grams of protein, 20 grams of fat, and 15 grams of carbohydrates, making it a fulfilling main dish option.
Serving Suggestions
Here are some delightful ways to serve Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken with Mayo:
– Over a Bed of Fresh Greens: Serve it on a garden salad for a refreshing, low-carb meal.
– With Whole Grain Rice: Pair it with brown rice or quinoa for a hearty dinner.
– As a Sandwich: Slice the chicken and place it on a bun for a delicious sandwich.
– With Roasted Veggies: Serve alongside a mix of roasted seasonal vegetables for added color and nutrients.
– With Chips: Enjoy as a delightful snack with baked vegetable chips.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken with Mayo?
If you’re looking for alternative options, consider these substitutes:
– Chicken Breasts: Chicken Thighs can add more flavor and juiciness if you prefer darker meat.
– Mayonnaise: Avocado mayo offers a healthier fat alternative without compromising flavor.
– Parmesan Cheese: Nutritional Yeast can work for a dairy-free option, adding a cheesy flavor.
– Panko Breadcrumbs: Cornmeal can serve as a crunchy coating if you’re looking for something gluten-free.
– Spices: Cajun spices can turn up the heat for those who crave a spicy kick.
Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken With Mayo
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by preheating your air fryer to 390°F (199°C). This is an important step, as it ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and achieves that lovely crisp texture.
- Take your two large boneless chicken breasts and slice them horizontally, creating four fillets. Place each fillet on a cutting board and cover it with plastic wrap. Using a rolling pin or meat tenderizer, gently pound the chicken until it’s an even thickness. This step helps in cooking the chicken evenly and keeping it juicy.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup of mayonnaise with two minced garlic cloves, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and optional garlic powder. Add salt to taste, and for a refreshing twist, consider mixing in a tablespoon of lemon juice. This adds a lovely brightness to the dish. Mix it all well until you have a smooth, creamy blend.
- Spread the garlic mayo mixture generously over each fillet, ensuring they are well-coated. This mayo will not just create flavor but also help the cheese mixture stick beautifully.
- In another shallow bowl, mix together your grated Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs. If you’re adding an optional touch of smoky flavor, toss in some smoked paprika. This combination will add a crispy, cheesy coating that’s out of this world.
- Take each fillet and dredge it in the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture. Make sure to press down lightly on the coating with your tongs to get it to stick. After coating one side, flip it over and repeat, ensuring you shake off any excess.
- Place the coated chicken fillets in the basket of your air fryer, making sure they are arranged in a single layer for even cooking. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until they turn golden brown. Midway through, about 5-6 minutes in, pause the cooking and carefully flip the chicken over using tongs to ensure both sides get that delicious crisp.
- Once the internal temperature reaches 165°F, remove the chicken and let it rest for a minute. Garnish with fresh parsley or oregano leaves. Serve it hot and enjoy the delightful crispy chicken as a part of your meal!
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!FAQs
Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken, coat it, and refrigerate it for a few hours before cooking. Just adjust the cooking time as needed if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
Q2: What dipping sauces go well with this chicken?
Garlic aioli and marinara or even a sweet chili sauce can complement the flavors beautifully. Salsa verde also adds a fresh twist!
Q3: Can this dish be frozen?
Yes, cooked chicken can be frozen. Make sure it’s well-wrapped, and thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q4: How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This helps ensure it’s safely cooked.
Q5: What should I do if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and crispy.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken with Mayo is not just another chicken recipe; it’s a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that brings joy to every table. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick dinner or serving it up during a weekend gathering, it’s bound to impress.
The flavors meld together beautifully, and the air fryer makes everything so convenient. Don’t forget to share your results and your favorite pairings. Trust me, this will quickly become a go-to recipe for many busy evenings ahead! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
