An easy, crispy, golden, and bursting with flavor — the kind of weeknight win every home cook needs.
Y’all know I’m a big believer in meals that are both simple and soul-satisfying. This one right here? It’s been a weeknight favorite in our house lately: Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken. Lightly breaded, golden on the outside, juicy on the inside… and so easy to make, it practically cooks itself while you’re cleaning up the kitchen.
This recipe started as one of those “use what I have” moments — and now I keep coming back to it again and again.

air fryer parmesan crusted chicken with crispy coating

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken Recipe:

Fast — It goes from prep to plate in about 20 minutes.
Flavorful — That parmesan and panko coating is everything.
Versatile — Wrap it, slice it over a salad, or drizzle it with sauce.
Family-Approved — Even the picky eaters come back for seconds.

I’ve served this several different ways, but it really shines when you pair it with my creamy parmesan garlic sauce. That’s actually from my oven-baked chicken thigh recipe — but let me tell you, it works beautifully here too. It’s cozy, comforting, and feels a little extra without being fussy.

How This Comes Together

This recipe starts with two big chicken breasts — I slice them in half to make four thinner fillets, then gently pound them so they cook nice and even in the air fryer. That step helps them stay juicy on the inside and get golden on the outside.
Then I mix up a little coating using mayo and a blend of herbs and spices. It might sound simple, but it gives the chicken so much flavor and helps that parmesan-panko crust stick just right. I press each piece into the crumb mixture, then pop them into the air fryer until they’re crispy and cooked through.
The result? Crunchy, cheesy chicken with all the comfort of something fried — but without the mess or oil.
You’ll find the full step-by-step recipe below — but just know, once you make this once, it’ll become a regular on your weekly menu.

Make This Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken Your Own:

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can dress it up or down, depending on what you’re craving (or what’s in your pantry). I love serving it over buttery rice or garlicky orzo, but it’s just as good tucked into a wrap with some crisp lettuce and a drizzle of dressing — or sliced over a big leafy salad for something a little lighter.
This chicken also makes an amazing pairing with my creamy parmesan garlic sauce — the one I use with my baked chicken thighs. It adds the perfect cozy, comforting finish that takes this dish from simple to wow, can we have this again tomorrow?
And if you’re into meal prep like I am, this recipe reheats beautifully. Just pop it back into the air fryer or oven to bring that crispy crust right back to life.

Recipe Notes:

This one is air fryer magic — no oil splatter, no mess. (I am crushing my New PPC Air Fryer)
It pairs perfectly with my creamy garlic sauce from this recipe.
Great for meal prep: just reheat in the air fryer or oven to keep the crunch.
I love making extra and slicing it for wraps or salads the next day.

Don’t Forget to Pin It!

Save this recipe for later — you’ll want it in your rotation.

Whether you’re making dinner after a long day or just looking for a new favorite, I hope this crispy, creamy chicken brings a little joy to your table. This air fryer parmesan crusted chicken is one of our go-to recipes — quick, crunchy, and full of comfort. Simple food made with love — that’s what SimplyBlessedDesignz is all about 💛
Tried it?
⭐ I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a star rating and a comment below — it helps others and truly supports my small business more than you know.
Tag me on social too — I can’t wait to see your plate!

Crispy air fryer parmesan chicken breasts served over rice

Print Recipe