Are you looking for a simple yet delicious recipe to elevate your weeknight dinners? This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is the perfect dish that combines the rich flavors of Parmesan cheese, the creaminess of mayo, and the convenience of air frying to give you crispy, golden-brown chicken in just a few steps! The air fryer makes this recipe a healthier alternative to traditional frying, while still giving you that crave-worthy crunch. Read on to discover how to make this easy, flavorful chicken recipe that's sure to become a family favorite.
What is Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo?
Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is a dish where chicken breasts are coated with a mixture of mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings, then air fried to perfection. The mayo acts as both a flavor enhancer and a binder, helping the Parmesan crust adhere to the chicken and keep it moist and tender. The air fryer ensures the chicken cooks evenly with a crispy, golden crust and juicy interior—all without the need for deep frying!
Ingredients List for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo
Before diving into the cooking process, gather the following ingredients. This recipe is designed to serve 4 people, but you can easily adjust the quantities to suit your needs.
Main Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 oz each)
- ½ cup mayonnaise (full-fat or light, based on preference)
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for added flavor and color)
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil spray (for air fryer basket)
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor:
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (for a tangy twist in the mayo mixture)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving, to add brightness)
- Panko breadcrumbs (for a crunchier texture)
Substitutions and Variations
This recipe is highly versatile, and you can easily make substitutions or variations based on your dietary preferences or what's available in your pantry. Here are a few ideas:
- Chicken Thighs: Swap out chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Thighs are generally juicier and more flavorful, though the cooking time may need slight adjustments.
- Greek Yogurt: Replace mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt if you’re looking for a healthier alternative. It provides the same creamy texture with fewer calories and more protein.
- Vegan Mayo: If you're avoiding eggs, use vegan mayo and dairy-free Parmesan for a plant-based version.
- Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the Parmesan mix for a spicier kick.
- Herbed Parmesan Crust: Add fresh or dried herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary for extra flavor in the crust.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients and possible substitutions, it’s time to start cooking! Below is a detailed guide to preparing this dish, ensuring your Parmesan-crusted chicken turns out perfect every time.
How to Cook Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat Your Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures the chicken starts cooking immediately, helping you achieve a crispy crust. - Prepare the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Drying the chicken ensures that the coating sticks well and that it crisps up in the air fryer. - Make the Parmesan-Mayo Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. If using Dijon mustard for an extra kick, stir it in at this point. - Coat the Chicken:
Spread the Parmesan-mayo mixture evenly over the tops of each chicken breast. Make sure to coat them generously, as this will form the delicious crust. If you’re using panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch, press them into the mayo mixture now. - Air Fry the Chicken:
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated chicken breasts in the basket in a single layer, leaving space between them for even cooking. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken, so ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving. - Check for Doneness:
Once the chicken is crispy and golden brown, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature is at least 165°F. If it hasn’t reached this temperature, air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes. - Rest the Chicken:
Allow the chicken to rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices and ensures a moist, tender bite.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with a simple recipe like this, there are a few common mistakes that can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here’s how to avoid them:
- Overcrowding the Air Fryer:
Don’t crowd the air fryer basket! Make sure to cook the chicken in batches if necessary, as overcrowding prevents air circulation and results in soggy crusts. - Skipping Preheating:
Always preheat your air fryer to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior. - Using Cold Chicken:
If your chicken is too cold, it may cook unevenly. Let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before cooking. - Under-seasoning the Chicken:
Make sure to season the chicken well before applying the mayo mixture. A well-seasoned chicken base ensures the flavor penetrates the meat rather than just sitting on the surface.
Serving and Presentation Tips
A well-cooked dish is only part of the dining experience. Presentation can elevate your dish from good to gourmet. Here are some ideas to make your Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo look as good as it tastes.
How to Serve Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Classic Side Dishes:
Pair the chicken with simple sides like garlic mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or roasted vegetables. The rich flavors of the chicken work well with lighter sides. - Salad Pairing:
Serve the chicken on top of a Caesar salad for a hearty, protein-packed meal. The Parmesan crust pairs perfectly with the creamy Caesar dressing. - Low-Carb Option:
For a low-carb meal, serve the chicken alongside roasted broccoli or cauliflower rice.
Presentation Ideas for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs:
Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil over the chicken for a pop of color and freshness. - Add a Lemon Wedge:
Serve each piece of chicken with a lemon wedge. The acidity from the lemon juice cuts through the richness of the mayo and Parmesan. - Use a Serving Platter:
Arrange the chicken breasts on a rustic wooden board or white serving platter, and garnish with herbs for an elegant presentation.
Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe Tips
To ensure your Parmesan-crusted chicken turns out perfect every time, here are a few additional tips:
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan:
Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and has a superior flavor compared to pre-grated varieties. - Thinner Chicken Breasts Cook More Evenly:
If your chicken breasts are thick, consider pounding them to an even thickness before cooking. This ensures they cook evenly without drying out. - Leftovers:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to re-crisp the crust.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, but you’ll need to thaw the chicken before cooking. Frozen chicken won’t cook evenly in the air fryer, and the crust may not crisp up as desired.
2. How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F at the thickest part of the chicken breast.
3. Can I bake this instead of air frying?
Absolutely! If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the Parmesan-mayo coating in advance, but it’s best to cook the chicken right before serving for optimal crispiness.
Conclusion
This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo recipe is a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy crispy, golden chicken without the mess of traditional frying. The air fryer does all the hard work, giving you juicy chicken with a crunchy Parmesan crust in just minutes. Whether you’re serving it with classic sides or incorporating it into a salad, this recipe is sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Try it out today and experience a delicious, healthier alternative to fried chicken!
PrintAir Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken With Mayo Recipe
This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo recipe delivers juicy chicken with a crispy, golden Parmesan crust. The secret is in the mayo, which keeps the chicken moist while helping the Parmesan coating stick perfectly. It's a low-carb, easy dinner made right in your air fryer.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (or pork rinds for low-carb)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Spread the mayo mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
- In another bowl, combine Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. Press the mixture onto the chicken, coating well.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil, then place the chicken breasts in a single layer.
- Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Notes
- For a low-carb version, replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds.
- Add Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
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