Can I make air fryer crispy chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can bread the chicken and refrigerate it (uncooked) for up to 2 days before air frying. Or cook fully, refrigerate for up to 3 days, and reheat in the air fryer until hot and crispy.

How do I keep the crust from falling off?

Press the breadcrumb mixture firmly into the chicken, and make sure to use both mayonnaise and an egg in the marinade. Spraying the air fryer basket with cooking spray also prevents sticking.

Can I bake instead of air fry?

Yes! Bake in a 400°F oven (with convection if possible) until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the crust is crispy and golden brown, about 10 minutes per side.

Do I need to flip the chicken?

Yes, flipping halfway ensures even browning on all sides of the chicken.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Definitely. Boneless, skinless thighs work well and stay extra juicy. Just trim off excess fat and cook until they reach at least 175°F.

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Name: Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American/Italian
Ingredients: 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 lbs. total); 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 large egg; 2 tsp. dried oregano or Italian seasoning, divided; 1 tsp. table salt, divided; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 3/4 cup finely grated parmesan cheese (1 1/2 oz.), plus more for garnish; cooking spray

Description

This simple and delicious Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe delivers serious crunch and flavor in about 20 minutes, using just a light spritz of oil. The parmesan-panko crusted boneless chicken breasts stay moist and juicy, making it a busy weeknight win. Serve it over pasta, tuck it into wraps for lunch, or just slice it over a fresh salad for a satisfying crunchy protein.

Ingredients

Units Scale

2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 lbs. total)
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 large egg
2 tsp. dried oregano or Italian seasoning, divided
1 tsp. table salt, divided
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
3/4 cup finely grated parmesan cheese (1 1/2 oz.), plus more for garnish
cooking spray

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Instructions

Cut each chicken breast in half crosswise then cut the thicker section in half through the middle, creating 3 even size and even thick pieces. Whisk together mayonnaise, egg, 1 teaspoon of the oregano or Italian seasoning, and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a medium mixing bowl. Add the chicken and toss well to coat. Set aside for 5 minutes on the counter or refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
Meanwhile, add panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and remaining 1 teaspoon oregano or Italian seasoning in a separate medium bowl. Carefully remove a piece of chicken from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, then press each side into the breadcrumb mixture until well coated. Repeat with remaining chicken then place in the based of an air fryer coated well with cooking spray. Generously spray all sides of the chicken with cooking spray then cook at 400°F until crispy and golden brown on all sides and the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F, about 8 minutes per side, flipping the chicken halfway through. Remove from the air fryer and sprinkle with remaining 1/4 teaspoon table salt. Set aside at room temperature for 5 minutes then serve hot with more parmesan.

Notes

You can swap in boneless skinless chicken thighs. If using thighs, there's no need to cut them first but be sure to trim away excess fat.
Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
Swap in nutritional yeast for parm to make this recipe dairy-free.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator or freeze for up to 2-3 months. Reheat in an air fryer at 400F until crispy on the outside and hot inside, 4-6 minutes.
This recipe is great as a main over pasta, but it's also delicious in a wrap, on a sandwich, or with a green salad.
For an ultra-golden crust, increase the air fryer temperature to 425°F for the final 2–3 minutes, if your model allows. This gives the breadcrumbs a perfect golden crunch.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Chicken
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: American/Italian