Crispy, cheesy and downright delicious, this Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is anything but boring. Juicy chicken, a golden Parmesan coating, and that perfect crunch make it a family favorite any night of the week.
FREE EASY KETO DINNERS EBOOK
Jump to:
- ❤️ Why You'll Love This Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken
- 🛒 Ingredients for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- 🔪 How to Make Chicken in the Air Fryer
- ☑️ Storage Instructions
- 🍴 What to Serve with Crispy Chicken Tenders
- 💡 Tips for Making Parmesan Crusted Chicken in the Air Fryer
- 🔄 Substitutions and Additions
- Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
- Why is My Chicken Not Crispy?
- Can I Make This Recipe Without Almond Flour?
- Do I Need to Flip the Chicken?
- Can I Bake This Chicken Instead of Air Frying?
- Can I Serve This Chicken with a Dipping Sauce?
- 🍽️ More Tasty Air Fryer Recipes
❤️ Why You'll Love This Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken
- Tender chicken, crisp on the outside, juicy inside
- Parmesan cheese makes a flavorful and crunchy crust
- Made in the air fryer for a quick and easy dinner
- Family friendly and gluten-free
When you need a quick and easy dinner that tastes like something from your favorite restaurant, this air fryer parmesan crusted chicken delivers every time. The crispy parmesan and almond flour coating locks in the juices while giving each bite a crunchy, cheesy crust. No deep frying, no messy clean-up, just a golden brown crust that’s absolutely irresistible.
And the best part is it’s naturally gluten-free, made with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Pair it with a side of roasted veggies, a fresh salad, or even some keto-friendly zoodles for a meal that’s easy, delicious and perfectly crispy.
If you love this air fryer chicken recipe, be sure to check out these Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets and these Air Fryer Chicken Legs.
🛒 Ingredients for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Chicken
- Parmesan cheese
- Mayonnaise
- Super fine almond flour
- Garlic
- Oregano
- Salt
- Ground black pepper
- Olive oil spray
*Exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below.
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🔪 How to Make Chicken in the Air Fryer
Preheat air fryer @400°F for 5 minutes.
Take each chicken breast and cut them in half, making 6 thinner chicken cutlets. Pat both sides with paper towels to make sure they are completely dry.
In a small bowl, add in the mayonnaise, half the salt and garlic.
Then mix to combine.
In another bowl, add in the grated parmesan cheese, almond flour, dried oregano, remaining salt and ground black pepper and whisk to combine. I like to add it to a food processor after I’ve grated the parmesan cheese, to better mix everything together.
Take each piece of chicken and spread the mayonnaise mixture over the top.
Cover the mayonnaise mixture in the breading. Repeat with the remaining 5 pieces of chicken.
Place the chicken in your air fryer basket that’s been sprayed with olive oil. Also spray the tops of the chicken generously with the olive oil.
Air fry @400°F for 12-14 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F, when checked with a meat thermometer.
Cooking times will vary depending on the thickness of your chicken. This is why it’s always best to check the internal temperature.
☑️ Storage Instructions
Fridge: You can store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the air fryer for the best texture.
🍴 What to Serve with Crispy Chicken Tenders
One of the many great things about this chicken recipe is it's so versatile that it goes with many Keto side dishes. If you're looking for some inspiration, give these a try:
- Easy Keto Coleslaw
- Fried Green Tomatoes
- Avocado Fries
- Cheesy Roasted Asparagus
- Roasted Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
- Bacon Wrapped Green Beans
- Eggplant Fries
- Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Mashed Cauliflower
💡 Tips for Making Parmesan Crusted Chicken in the Air Fryer
- Use a wire rack: If your air fryer has a wire rack, place the chicken on it instead of directly in the basket. This improves airflow for an even crispier texture.
- Let the coated chicken rest: Giving it 5-10 minutes before air frying helps the coating adhere better, preventing it from falling off while cooking.
- Press the coating firmly: Lightly pressing the parmesan mixture into the mayo-coated chicken ensures a thicker, crunchier crust.
- Preheat the air fryer: A hot air fryer gives the best crispiness right from the start. Let it run for at least 5 minutes before adding the chicken.
- Do not open the air fryer too often: Opening the air fryer basket too frequently releases heat and affects cooking consistency. Try to check only once near the end.
🔄 Substitutions and Additions
- Spices: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breading for a little heat.
- Pork rinds: Feel free to add crushed pork rinds to the almond flour mixture, if you want an extra crunchy crust.
- Seasonings: Smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, or even a bit of lemon zest can add extra flavor.
- Swap out the mayo: Greek yogurt can be used instead for a lighter option.
- Lemon: A little fresh lemon juice after cooking brightens up the flavors.
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Sure. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great and make a juicy option.
Why is My Chicken Not Crispy?
Make sure to spray the tops with olive oil and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Almond Flour?
Yes, you can use crushed pork rinds or even panko bread crumbs if the carbs and gluten aren't an issue.
Do I Need to Flip the Chicken?
No flipping is necessary! The air fryer circulates heat around the entire piece, giving you an evenly crispy crust.
Can I Bake This Chicken Instead of Air Frying?
Yes, bake at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Can I Serve This Chicken with a Dipping Sauce?
Absolutely! Here are some of my favorites:
- Zesty Dipping Sauce
- Bang Bang Sauce
- Avocado Lime Cilantro Ranch Dressing
- BBQ Sauce
- Ranch Dressing & Dip
- Blue Cheese Dressing
🍽️ More Tasty Air Fryer Recipes
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings
- Bacon Wrapped Chicken Tenders
- Jalapeño Poppers
- Pork Tenderloin
- Zucchini Fries
- Buffalo Wings
FREE 20 EASY KETO RECIPES EBOOK
Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Ingredients
- 3 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ⅓ cup super fine almond flour
- 2 cloves garlic, grated
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer @400°F for 5 minutes.
- Take each chicken breast and cut them in half, making 6 thinner chicken cutlets. Pat both sides with paper towels to make sure they are completely dry.
- In a small bowl, add in the mayonnaise, half the salt and garlic, then mix to combine.
- In another bowl, add in the grated parmesan cheese, almond flour, dried oregano, remaining salt and ground black pepper and whisk to combine. I like to add it to a food processor after I’ve grated the parmesan cheese, to better mix everything together.
- Take each piece of chicken and spread the mayonnaise mixture over the top.
- Cover the mayonnaise mixture in the breading. Repeat with the remaining 5 pieces of chicken.
- Place the chicken in your air fryer basket that’s been sprayed with olive oil. Also spray the tops of the chicken generously with the olive oil.
- Air fry @400°F for 12-14 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F, when checked with a meat thermometer. Cooking times will vary depending on the thickness of your chicken. This is why it’s always best to check the internal temperature.
- I like to serve them with a squeeze of lemon juice and the garlic aioli in this recipe for dipping.
*Make sure to scroll up and read the post for substitutions, additions and helpful tips for making this recipe.
*Nutritional data is provided as a courtesy and is accurate to the best of my knowledge. You can verify it using the nutrition calculator of your choice. All data is based on net carbs, without sugar alcohol: Swerve, Erythritol, Monk Fruit or Allulose.
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