If you're looking for a quick, delicious, and healthy meal option, this Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo recipe is exactly what you need! It's crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and loaded with flavor. Whether you're new to air frying or a seasoned pro, this easy-to-follow recipe will satisfy your cravings for a perfectly seasoned chicken dish with minimal effort. Stick around for all the details, including substitutions, cooking tips, and presentation ideas that will make this dish a showstopper at your dinner table!

What is Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo?
Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is a deliciously simple recipe that involves coating chicken breasts or thighs with a mixture of mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs, then air-frying it to golden perfection. The mayo helps lock in moisture, ensuring your chicken stays juicy, while the Parmesan and breadcrumbs provide a crunchy crust with a savory flavor that is sure to impress. The air fryer cooks the chicken evenly and crisps it up without the need for excess oil, making this recipe a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods.
Ingredients List for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo
Here's everything you’ll need to whip up this crispy and mouthwatering Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo:
- 2-3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs, if you prefer dark meat)
- ½ cup mayonnaise (regular or light, depending on your preference)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch, or regular breadcrumbs)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika (for a little color and subtle heat)
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray (olive oil or any preferred cooking spray)
Optional garnishes and sides:
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Side salad or steamed vegetables
Ingredient List Breakdown:
- Chicken Breasts/Thighs: This is the heart of the dish. Chicken breasts are lean and tend to cook well in an air fryer, but thighs provide a juicier, richer flavor. Choose whichever cut you prefer.
- Mayonnaise: The mayo serves two purposes in this recipe: it helps keep the chicken moist and allows the breadcrumbs and Parmesan to adhere to the chicken, creating a perfectly crispy coating.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a rich, salty flavor and enhances the crunchy texture of the crust. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor, but pre-grated will work in a pinch.
- Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter, crunchier coating than traditional breadcrumbs, but you can use regular breadcrumbs if that's what you have on hand. The breadcrumbs help absorb some of the moisture and create that signature golden crust.
- Seasonings (Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Paprika, Salt, Pepper): These spices add depth and flavor to the crust. The garlic and onion powder bring savory notes, paprika adds a bit of color and warmth, and salt and pepper enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
- Cooking Spray: Essential for helping the chicken crisp up without adding too much extra fat or calories. A light mist of olive oil spray will do the trick.
Substitutions and Variations
There are several ways to tweak this Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo recipe to suit your dietary preferences, ingredient availability, or flavor profile. Here are some substitution ideas:
- Chicken Alternatives: If you're not a fan of chicken breasts or thighs, you can use chicken tenders or even boneless pork chops for this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Dairy-Free Option: For those avoiding dairy, you can substitute the Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese alternative or simply skip it and double up on the seasoned breadcrumbs.
- Gluten-Free: Swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. This will ensure the dish is safe for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
- Spice it Up: For a kick of heat, you can add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture. If you prefer a milder flavor, omit the paprika.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to add some fresh or dried herbs to the breadcrumb mixture. Basil, oregano, or thyme would complement the Parmesan crust nicely.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is super easy, even for beginners. Just follow these simple steps for a perfectly crispy, juicy chicken dinner.
How to Cook Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures even cooking and a crispier crust.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts (or thighs) dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This step helps the coating adhere better and allows for a crispier texture.
- Make the Mayo Mixture: In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This flavorful mixture will help the breadcrumbs stick and keep the chicken moist.
- Prepare the Parmesan Breadcrumb Mixture: In another bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. Stir to distribute the cheese evenly.
- Coat the Chicken: Using a brush or spoon, spread the mayo mixture generously on each chicken breast, making sure to cover both sides. Next, dredge the chicken in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing down slightly to make sure the coating sticks.
- Arrange in Air Fryer Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated chicken breasts in the basket, making sure they are in a single layer and not touching. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the chicken in batches.
- Air Fry the Chicken: Set the air fryer to 375°F and cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, and serve with lemon wedges for a refreshing pop of flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Air Fryer Basket: Avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and gets that desired crispy crust. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
- Skipping the Preheat Step: Always preheat your air fryer! This helps the chicken start cooking immediately, leading to a crispier finish.
- Using Too Much Mayo: While mayo keeps the chicken moist, using too much can result in a soggy crust. Stick to the recommended amount.
- Not Flipping the Chicken: Flipping the chicken halfway through the cooking process ensures that both sides crisp up evenly.
Serving and Presentation Tips
When serving Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo, presentation can elevate the dish from a casual weeknight dinner to a special occasion meal. Here are some tips to impress your guests or simply make your family meal more enjoyable:
How to Serve Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Accompaniments: Pair this crispy chicken with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted potatoes for a balanced meal. You can also serve it over a bed of rice or pasta with a light sauce like marinara or pesto.
- Lemon Wedges: Fresh lemon wedges on the side can add a zesty contrast to the rich Parmesan crust.
- Dipping Sauce: Serve with a side of dipping sauces such as garlic aioli, ranch dressing, or marinara for extra flavor.
Presentation Ideas for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Garnish: Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or basil over the chicken before serving. The pop of green adds both color and flavor.
- Plating: For a restaurant-style presentation, plate the chicken alongside vibrant vegetables like steamed broccoli or colorful bell peppers. A drizzle of balsamic glaze can add a touch of elegance.
Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe Tips
- Check Internal Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through. The safe internal temperature for chicken is 165°F.
- Extra Crunch: For an even crispier crust, give the chicken an additional spritz of cooking spray halfway through the cooking process.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop the chicken back in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore the crispy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this recipe in the oven if I don't have an air fryer?
A: Yes! You can bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the crust is golden and crispy.
Q: Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the mayo and breadcrumb mixture ahead of time, but it's best to coat and air fry the chicken right before serving to ensure maximum crispiness.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze cooked Parmesan Crusted Chicken for up to 3 months. Reheat it in the air fryer to maintain the crispy texture.
Conclusion
This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious dinner option. With a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that’s crispy, flavorful, and sure to please the whole family. Try it today, and don’t forget to experiment with variations to make it your own! Whether you serve it for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is a guaranteed hit.
PrintAir Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken With Mayo Recipe
This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo recipe creates juicy, tender chicken with a crispy parmesan coating. The mayonnaise adds moisture and helps the parmesan and breadcrumbs adhere, while the air fryer ensures a perfect golden crust with less oil. Ideal for busy weeknights, this dish is easy to prepare, and ready in no time!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 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 (panko or regular)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, combine parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.
- Coat each chicken breast with the mayo mixture, then press into the parmesan-breadcrumb mixture to coat evenly.
- Place the coated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, spray the chicken lightly with cooking spray before air frying.
- Pair with a side of roasted vegetables or a salad for a complete meal.
- You can substitute panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch, or use Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
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