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Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

This easy, 20-minute air fryer parmesan crusted chicken is crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and completely irresistible.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 17 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 285
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (sliced in half horizontally to make 4 thin cutlets)
  • 3 Tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Olive oil cooking spray

Method
 

  1. Preheat: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for 5 minutes.
  2. Prep Chicken: Place the 4 thin chicken cutlets on a cutting board. If they are uneven, use a meat tenderizer to gently pound them to the same thickness. Season both sides lightly with the kosher salt and black pepper.
  3. Apply Mayo: Using a butter knife or silicone brush, spread a thin, even layer of mayonnaise over both sides of each chicken cutlet.
  4. Mix Breading: In a wide, shallow dish, whisk together the Panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
  5. Coat Chicken: Place each mayo-coated chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture. Press firmly so the crumbs stick to the chicken, then flip and press the other side until fully coated.
  6. Air Fry: Lightly mist your air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Place the breaded chicken in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary). Lightly spray the tops of the chicken with oil.
  7. Cook & Flip: Air fry for 10-12 minutes. Crucial step: Flip the chicken halfway through the cooking time to ensure an even, golden-brown crust.
  8. Serve: The chicken is done when the crust is deep golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Serve immediately and enjoy!