Are you looking for a quick, delicious, and healthier way to enjoy crispy chicken? Look no further! This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo recipe is a game-changer. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that delivers juicy, tender chicken with a golden, cheesy crust—all made without deep frying. Read on to discover how you can recreate this mouthwatering recipe in the comfort of your own kitchen.

What is Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken With Mayo?
Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken With Mayo is a savory dish where boneless chicken breasts or thighs are coated with a mixture of Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, and seasonings, then air-fried to crispy perfection. The mayo helps keep the chicken moist and adds a rich flavor, while the Parmesan creates a deliciously crispy crust. Cooking the chicken in an air fryer means you use less oil, making it a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. The result? A crispy, golden exterior and juicy, tender interior.
Ingredients List for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken With Mayo
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional for color and flavor)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Cooking spray or a light drizzle of olive oil
Substitutions and Variations
This recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your preferences or dietary needs. For instance, if you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute regular mayonnaise with light mayo or Greek yogurt. Greek yogurt gives a tangy flavor while keeping the chicken tender and juicy. You can also use panko breadcrumbs mixed with the Parmesan for extra crunch. For a dairy-free version, swap the Parmesan with a vegan cheese alternative. As for seasoning, feel free to experiment! Swap oregano for thyme or rosemary, or add a dash of cayenne pepper for some heat. Want to make it gluten-free? Ensure your seasonings and cheese are certified gluten-free, and you’re all set.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

- Prepare the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and ensures the chicken gets crispy. If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, consider cutting them in half lengthwise or pounding them to an even thickness. This will help the chicken cook more evenly and prevent dry edges. - Mix the Coating
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it forms a smooth, thick paste. This mixture will act as the "crust" for your chicken. - Coat the Chicken
Generously spread the mayo-Parmesan mixture over each chicken breast, ensuring an even layer on both sides. The thicker the layer, the crispier the crust will be. If you want an extra thick crust, sprinkle some additional Parmesan on top of the coated chicken. - Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for about 3-5 minutes. This ensures that the chicken starts cooking immediately, which helps achieve that crispy exterior. - Cook the Chicken
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush it with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the coated chicken breasts in the basket in a single layer, making sure they aren’t overlapping. Cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure both sides are evenly crispy. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) when done. - Rest the Chicken
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.
How to Cook Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken With Mayo: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Step 1: Season and Coat the Chicken
Season both sides of the chicken with a little salt and pepper before applying the mayo-Parmesan mixture. This gives the chicken an extra layer of flavor beneath the crispy crust. - Step 2: Ensure Even Cooking
If you’re cooking more than two chicken breasts, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary. Overlapping pieces can lead to uneven cooking, where some parts are soggy while others are perfectly crispy. - Step 3: Watch for Crispiness
Keep an eye on the chicken in the last few minutes of cooking. If you prefer extra crunch, you can increase the air fryer temperature to 400°F for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just make sure the chicken doesn’t burn!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping Preheating
Not preheating the air fryer can result in uneven cooking and a soggy crust. Always allow the air fryer to come to temperature before placing the chicken inside. - Using Too Much Mayo
While the mayo adds flavor and moisture, using too much can make the crust heavy and greasy. Stick to the recommended amount to achieve the perfect balance of crispy and moist. - Overcooking the Chicken
Air fryers can cook food faster than traditional ovens, so keep an eye on the cooking time. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness rather than relying solely on time. - Not Flipping the Chicken
Forgetting to flip the chicken halfway through can result in one side being crispier than the other. Be sure to turn it over to ensure even cooking on both sides.
Serving and Presentation Tips
To elevate the dish, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese. Pair the chicken with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or a light pasta dish for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a wedge of lemon on the side for a refreshing citrus kick.
How to Serve Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken With Mayo
This dish is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Serve it over a bed of mixed greens with a balsamic vinaigrette for a light, refreshing meal. Alternatively, slice the chicken and use it in a sandwich or wrap with fresh veggies and your favorite sauce. It’s also perfect alongside mashed potatoes or a grain like quinoa for a more hearty dinner. The possibilities are endless!
Presentation Ideas for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken With Mayo
For a restaurant-style presentation, slice the chicken breast into strips and fan them out on the plate. Garnish with a few parsley leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a professional touch. Serve with colorful sides like roasted carrots or asparagus to add vibrancy to the plate.
Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken With Mayo Recipe Tips
- Even Coating: Make sure the mayo-Parmesan mixture is spread evenly for a consistent crust.
- Extra Crispy: For a crispier crust, sprinkle extra Parmesan on top of the mayo mixture.
- Rest Time: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juices and tenderness.
- Cooking Time: Depending on the size of the chicken breasts, you may need to adjust the cooking time. Thicker pieces may require a few extra minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs work great in this recipe. They may need a slightly longer cooking time since they tend to be thicker than breasts.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the chicken and coat it with the mayo mixture ahead of time. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours, and air fry when ready.
Do I need to use fresh Parmesan cheese?
Freshly grated Parmesan is recommended for the best texture and flavor, but pre-grated Parmesan will work in a pinch.
Can I reheat leftovers?
Yes, reheat the chicken in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to bring back the crispiness.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken With Mayo is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or even special occasions. With its crispy crust, tender chicken, and minimal prep time, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Try it out today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right from your air fryer!
PrintAir Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken With Mayo Recipe
This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with mayo recipe features juicy chicken breasts coated in a crispy Parmesan and breadcrumb crust, with mayo adding moisture and flavor. Cooked quickly in the air fryer, it's a healthier and easier way to enjoy crispy chicken. Perfect for busy nights!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix the mayonnaise and Parmesan cheese in a bowl.
- In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the chicken breasts with the mayo mixture, then dip them into the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the coated chicken in the air fryer basket, lightly spray with cooking spray.
- Cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway, until the chicken is crispy and cooked through.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Add some Italian seasoning or paprika for more flavor variety.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 820mg
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