Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken: Looking for a quick and healthy dinner that feels like a treat? This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is crispy, juicy, and packed with flavour. It gives you the satisfying crunch of fried chicken but with way less oil and fat. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy recipe will become a family favourite in no time. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- This dish checks all the boxes:
- It’s quick, simple, and made with easy-to-find ingredients.
- It’s healthier than traditional fried chicken.
- You still get that golden, crunchy coating.
- The inside stays moist and juicy, thanks to optional brining.
- Cleanup is fast and easy when cooked in an air fryer!
Ingredients for Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken
To make 2–4 servings, here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 cutlets) – brined, if possible
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup panko or regular breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika or cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt (skip if chicken is brined)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup mayonnaise OR 2 well-beaten eggs
- Cooking spray
How to Make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Step 1: Brine the Chicken (Optional but Recommended)
In a deep bowl, mix 4 cups of water with 1 tbsp coarse salt and 1 tbsp Italian seasoning.
Add chicken breasts and refrigerate for 2 hours or overnight.
Before cooking, drain the brine, let chicken come to room temperature, and pat dry with paper towels.
Cut horizontally to make thinner pieces or pound flat using a mallet.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
In a shallow dish, combine Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, black pepper, and salt (only if not brined).
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
In a bowl, add mayonnaise or egg wash.
Dip each chicken piece into mayo or egg, then press into the dry mixture, coating both sides well.
Step 4: Air Fry the Chicken
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Spray the air fryer basket lightly with oil.
- Place chicken pieces in a single layer, leaving space between them.
- Air fry for 13–15 minutes. Flip halfway through and cook 7–8 more minutes until golden and cooked (165°F internal temp).
- Let it rest before serving.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Pair it with steamed broccoli, salad, or your favourite roasted veggies. Add a dip like ranch or marinara sauce for extra flavour.
Recipe Tips
- Brining makes the chicken juicy and full of flavour.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for a crispier crust.
- Don’t crowd the air fryer basket—space is key for even cooking.
Recipe Variations
- Chicken Tenders – Use chicken tenders instead of breasts for smaller, crispy bites.
- Chicken Parmesan Style – Top cooked chicken with marinara and mozzarella. Air fry for 2 more minutes.
- Salad Topper – Slice and add to your salad with cheese, bacon, and your favourite dressing.
How to Store Leftovers
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- This recipe does not freeze well, so enjoy it fresh or as leftovers during the week.
FAQ
Do I need to brine the chicken before air frying?
Brining is optional but highly recommended. It makes the chicken juicier and more flavourful. If you don’t have time, you can skip it and still enjoy a tasty result.
Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs. However, panko breadcrumbs give the chicken a lighter, crispier texture.
What temperature should I cook the chicken at in the air fryer?
Cook the chicken at 400°F (200°C) in the air fryer. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Can I use egg instead of mayonnaise for coating the chicken?
Absolutely! You can use 2 well-beaten eggs instead of mayonnaise to coat the chicken before adding the breadcrumb mixture.
How long can I store leftovers?
Store leftover parmesan chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This recipe doesn’t freeze well due to the crispy coating.
