Air Fried Chicken Mayo Sandwich Recipe

Air Fried Chicken Mayo Sandwich Recipe: A Quick and Delicious Delight

Introduction:

The Air Fried Chicken Mayo Sandwich is a delicious and healthier take on the classic fried chicken sandwich, featuring crispy, juicy chicken paired with a creamy mayo spread, all sandwiched between two soft slices of bread. The use of an air fryer to cook the chicken reduces the amount of oil compared to deep frying, giving you a crispy yet healthier alternative. The creamy mayonnaise adds flavor and richness to the sandwich, while the fresh vegetables bring crunch and balance to the texture.

Whether you’re craving a quick meal for lunch, dinner, or a snack, this recipe is perfect for a quick fix. With its juicy, tender chicken, creamy mayo, and crispy air-fried coating, this sandwich is sure to become a favorite in your recipe arsenal. Let’s dive into the Air Fried Chicken Mayo Sandwich recipe that’s bound to satisfy your cravings!

Ingredients:

For the Air Fried Chicken:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or chicken thighs for a juicier option)

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 large egg (for the egg wash)

1 tablespoon water (to thin the egg wash)

1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)

2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing)

For the Mayo Spread:

½ cup mayonnaise

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon lemon juice

½ teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sandwich Assembly:

4 slices of sandwich bread (whole wheat, white, or brioche)

1-2 tablespoons butter (for toasting the bread)

Fresh lettuce (optional)

Tomato slices (optional)

Pickles (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken for Air Frying

To start, we’ll prepare the chicken breasts for the air fryer. Begin by gently pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about 1 inch) using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and stays tender.

Next, create your breading station. In a shallow bowl, mix 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. This seasoned flour will give the chicken its flavor base.

In another bowl, whisk 1 large egg with 1 tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. This will help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken.

For the final layer of crunch, place 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs in a third shallow bowl. Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs, perfect for air frying.

Now, dip each piece of chicken into the flour mixture, coating it well. Then, dip the chicken into the egg wash and coat it again with the panko breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs gently onto the chicken to ensure they stick.

Step 2: Air Fry the Chicken

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). While the air fryer is heating up, lightly spray or brush the chicken with 2 tablespoons of olive oil to help achieve that golden, crispy crust.

Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Be sure not to overcrowd the basket to allow for even cooking. Cook the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. The chicken should be crispy on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the air fryer and set it aside to rest. This helps the juices redistribute within the chicken, ensuring a moist and tender result.

Step 3: Prepare the Mayo Spread

While the chicken is cooking, it’s time to prepare the mayo spread for the sandwich. In a small bowl, combine ½ cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, and ½ teaspoon garlic powder. Stir until smooth and well combined. Taste the mayo spread and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This simple yet flavorful spread adds a creamy richness to the sandwich that complements the crispy chicken perfectly.

Step 4: Toast the Bread

For an extra touch of flavor and texture, toast the bread lightly before assembling the sandwich. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 1-2 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter has melted, place the bread slices in the skillet and toast for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.

Alternatively, you can use a toaster if you prefer, but pan-toasting adds a layer of buttery flavor that takes the sandwich to the next level.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwich

Now that everything is ready, it’s time to assemble your Air Fried Chicken Mayo Sandwich!

1. Start by spreading a generous amount of the mayo spread on one side of each slice of toasted bread.
2. Place the crispy air-fried chicken breast on one slice of the bread.
3. Add any optional toppings such as fresh lettuce, tomato slices, or pickles for added freshness and crunch.
4. Top with the second slice of bread, mayo side down, to complete the sandwich.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Cut the sandwich in half for easier handling, and serve it immediately while the chicken is still crispy. You can pair it with a side of fries, chips, or a simple salad to make it a complete meal.

Tips and Variations:

1. Customizing the Mayo Spread: You can easily adjust the flavor of the mayo spread to suit your tastes. For example, add a bit of sriracha sauce for a spicy kick, or stir in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill for extra flavor.

2. Spicy Chicken Sandwich: If you like your sandwiches with a bit of heat, you can spice up the breading by adding cayenne pepper or chili powder to the flour mixture. You can also drizzle some hot sauce over the chicken before adding the mayo spread.

3. Alternative Toppings: While lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles are classic choices, you can experiment with different toppings. Try adding avocado slices, cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or American), or crispy bacon for a more indulgent sandwich.

4. Make It Healthier: For a healthier version of the sandwich, you can use whole wheat bread or low-calorie bread options. You can also swap out the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt to reduce the fat content while still achieving a creamy texture.

5. Air Fryer Cooking Time: Cooking times can vary depending on the size and thickness of your chicken breasts. If you’re using chicken thighs, which tend to be juicier, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Always ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) internally for food safety.

6. Vegan Version: To make a vegan version of this sandwich, you can use plant-based chicken patties or tofu in place of the chicken. You can also substitute the mayo with a vegan version, like vegan mayonnaise or a mixture of hummus and tahini.

Health Benefits of the Air Fried Chicken Mayo Sandwich:

While this air fried chicken sandwich is indulgent, it’s healthier compared to traditional fried chicken sandwiches. The air frying method uses significantly less oil, which helps reduce the overall calorie content. The chicken breast is a lean protein source, and the mayo spread can be adjusted to suit dietary preferences by using low-fat or vegan alternatives. Including fresh vegetables like lettuce and tomatoes adds vitamins and fiber, contributing to a balanced meal.

Conclusion:

This Air Fried Chicken Mayo Sandwich is a quick, delicious, and healthier take on a classic favorite. The crispy chicken, creamy mayo spread, and toasty bread come together in perfect harmony, making it an ideal choice for any meal. Plus, with the air fryer doing most of the work, you can enjoy the crispy texture of fried chicken without the excess oil. Whether you’re preparing it for lunch, dinner, or a casual snack, this sandwich is sure to become a go-to recipe in your household.