Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites Recipe – Golden, Juicy & Irresistible!

Looking for a crispy, juicy, and utterly irresistible chicken recipe? This Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a game changer! Whether you’re on a keto diet, looking for a quick dinner, or just craving something crispy and flavorful, this air fryer recipe checks all the boxes. With a golden Parmesan crust and tender, juicy chicken inside, it’s the perfect dish to impress your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy & Golden – Achieve a restaurant-style crunch with ease.
• Healthier Alternative – No deep frying means fewer calories and less oil.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes!
• Versatile – Perfect for chicken breasts, thighs, tenders, and even wings.

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🕒 Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes
• Cuisine: American, Italian
• Servings: 4

🔥 Ingredients

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, tenders, or wings)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup Panko bread crumbs (or keto alternative like almond flour)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional for extra flavor)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
• Cooking spray

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🍗 How to Make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This ensures an even cooking temperature and crispiness.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

1. In a bowl, mix Parmesan cheese, Panko bread crumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard (if using), and olive oil.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

1. Pat dry the chicken with a paper towel.
2. Brush the mayonnaise mixture all over the chicken.
3. Dredge the chicken in the Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to coat evenly.

Step 4: Air Fry the Chicken

1. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
2. Place the coated chicken in a single layer in the basket.
3. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with a fresh salad, roasted veggies, or dipping sauce of choice!

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Variations & Substitutions

1. Keto Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• Swap Panko bread crumbs for crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
• Use full-fat mayo for extra richness.

2. Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo

• Mayonnaise creates a rich, creamy crust while helping the Parmesan adhere perfectly.

3. Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Bites

• Cut chicken into bite-sized nuggets or tenders before coating and air frying.

4. Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Wings

• Use chicken wings instead of breasts and adjust cooking time to 18-20 minutes.

5. Gluten-Free Parmesan Crusted Chicken Air Fryer

• Use gluten-free bread crumbs or skip them altogether.

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Nutrition Per Serving

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 40g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbs: 5g (less for keto version)
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 580mg

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Tips for the Best Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• Use Fresh Parmesan – Pre-shredded varieties won’t crisp as well.
• Don’t Overcrowd – Air circulation is key for crispiness.
• Flip Halfway – Ensures even golden-brown perfection.
• Rest Before Serving – This keeps the juices inside for the juiciest chicken.

Is Chicken Parmesan Good in an Air Fryer?

Absolutely! Chicken Parmesan in the air fryer is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, without excessive oil. The air fryer’s rapid hot air circulation creates a golden crust, making it just as delicious as the traditional deep-fried version but with fewer calories.

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Why Isn’t My Chicken Getting Crispy in the Air Fryer?

If your Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken isn’t turning out crispy, here are some possible reasons:

• Overcrowding: Ensure there’s enough space around each piece for hot air circulation.
• Too Much Moisture: Pat the chicken dry before coating to remove excess moisture.
• No Preheating: Always preheat your air fryer for a few minutes before cooking.
• Wrong Coating Ratio: Use a balanced mix of Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and seasoning.
• Not Flipping: Flip halfway through cooking to ensure even crisping.

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How Do You Get Breading to Stick to Chicken in an Air Fryer?

• Use Mayo or Egg Wash: Brushing a thin layer of mayonnaise or beaten eggs helps the breading stick.
• Press the Coating Firmly: After dipping the chicken, gently press the Parmesan-breadcrumb mix onto the surface.
• Rest Before Cooking: Let the coated chicken sit for a few minutes before air frying.
• Light Spray of Oil: Spraying a little oil over the coated chicken helps crisp up the breading.

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Can You Use Mayonnaise in an Air Fryer?

Yes! Mayonnaise acts as a great binding agent and helps create a golden crust without the need for eggs or oil. It also keeps the chicken moist and tender.

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Can I Put Raw Chicken in the Air Fryer?

Yes, air fryers can cook raw chicken efficiently. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) before consuming.

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Can You Put Foil in an Air Fryer?

Yes, but with caution. Use perforated foil to allow proper airflow. Avoid blocking vents to prevent uneven cooking.

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What Is the Secret to Crispy Air Fryer Chicken?

• Preheat the air fryer before adding chicken.
• Pat the chicken dry before coating.
• Use a combination of Parmesan and Panko breadcrumbs.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket.
• Flip halfway through cooking for even crisping.
• Lightly spray the coated chicken with oil.

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Should I Put Oil on Chicken Before Air Frying?

A light spray of oil (olive oil or avocado oil) helps crisp up the coating. Avoid using too much, as excess oil can cause sogginess.

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How to Stick Breadcrumbs to Chicken?

1. Coat the chicken in a thin layer of mayo, egg wash, or mustard.
2. Dredge in Parmesan and Panko breadcrumbs.
3. Press the coating firmly onto the chicken.
4. Let it rest for 5 minutes before air frying.

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Should I Put Flour on My Chicken Before Putting It in the Air Fryer?

Using flour alone isn’t recommended for air fryers, as it won’t crisp up well. Instead, use a mixture of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs for the best results.

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Can You Use an Air Fryer Without Breading?

Yes! You can season chicken with just spices and olive oil for a simple, crispy, and healthy alternative.

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Can I Wrap Chicken in Parchment Paper in the Air Fryer?

Yes, but use perforated parchment paper to allow airflow. Never place parchment paper directly in the air fryer without food on it, as it may burn.

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What 5 Foods Should You Not Put in an Air Fryer?

1. Wet batters (like tempura batter) – They won’t crisp properly.
2. Leafy greens – They fly around and cook unevenly.
3. Cheese alone – It melts and creates a mess.
4. Large cuts of meat – They may not cook evenly.
5. Popcorn – The air fryer doesn’t get hot enough for popping.

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Can I Put Eggs in the Air Fryer?

Yes! You can cook hard-boiled, soft-boiled, scrambled, or poached eggs in an air fryer.

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What Is Not Good in an Air Fryer?

• Battered foods (unless frozen)
• Pasta and rice (without pre-cooking)
• Overly fatty meats (may cause smoke)
• Whole roasts or turkeys (uneven cooking)

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Can I Make This Without Mayo?

Yes! Use Greek yogurt or melted butter instead.

Can I Store and Reheat Leftovers?

Absolutely! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.

What to Serve With Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

Pair it with roasted veggies, a crisp salad, mashed potatoes, or a light pasta dish.

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Final Thoughts

This Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is everything you could want—crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavor. Whether you go for tenders, wings, or a full breast, this recipe guarantees a delicious meal in no time. Try it today and enjoy a perfect crispy bite!

👉 What’s your favorite air fryer recipe? Let us know in the comments! 🍽️