Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo Recipe

If you’re looking for a weeknight dinner idea that’s quick, easy, and undeniably delicious, this Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo is the recipe you need in your life. It features juicy chicken breasts coated in a flavorful blend of mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs, air-fried to golden perfection. You get that satisfying crunch on the outside with tender, moist chicken on the inside—all without deep frying or heating up your entire kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting a casual dinner with friends, this air fryer chicken recipe is guaranteed to impress. The secret lies in using mayonnaise as the base for the crust, locking in moisture while helping the Parmesan coating crisp up beautifully. It’s a game-changer for anyone who loves crispy chicken but doesn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen or deal with messy oil.

There are a lot of air fryer chicken recipes out there, but few are as simple and flavorful as this one. Not only does this air fryer Parmesan crusted chicken with mayo cook in under 20 minutes, but it also uses just a handful of pantry staples you likely already have on hand. The mayo keeps the chicken from drying out, while the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture adds bold, cheesy flavor and texture. The air fryer delivers perfectly even cooking without excess oil, making this recipe both lighter and easier than traditional fried chicken. You can serve it with a side salad, roasted veggies, or your favorite dipping sauce, and it fits just as well into a busy weeknight dinner as it does for a special meal. Once you try this once, it’s sure to become part of your regular dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo

One of the main reasons this air fryer Parmesan crusted chicken with mayo is so popular is because it hits all the right notes for home cooks. It’s fast, requiring just a few minutes of prep time and under 15 minutes of cook time. It’s flavorful, with a crisp, cheesy crust that complements the juicy chicken perfectly. And it’s easy—seriously easy. You don’t need to dredge the chicken in flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs like traditional breaded recipes. Instead, everything sticks to the chicken thanks to the mayonnaise, which acts as both binder and flavor booster.

Another reason people love this recipe is that it’s incredibly family-friendly. Even picky eaters enjoy the crispy texture and cheesy taste. It also works well for meal prep, as the leftovers reheat beautifully without losing their crunch. You can slice the chicken and add it to salads or wraps for lunch the next day, or serve it again with different sides for a quick second dinner. Furthermore, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to lighten things up without sacrificing flavor. Since it’s made in the air fryer, you use little to no oil, resulting in fewer calories and less mess. It’s satisfying, wholesome, and totally crave-worthy.

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Ingredients You Need for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo

This recipe uses just a few simple ingredients that come together to make something truly special. Most of these are pantry staples, and you can easily substitute based on what you have available. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (regular or light)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Non-stick spray (for air fryer basket)

The mayonnaise provides a creamy, tangy base that helps bind the breadcrumb mixture to the chicken, while the Parmesan adds sharp, nutty flavor and helps with crisping. The seasoning blend is simple but impactful, enhancing the chicken without overpowering the dish.

Kitchen Tools Required to Make This Crispy Chicken

Making this recipe doesn’t require any fancy equipment, but having the right tools will make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

• Air fryer (any model with a basket or tray system)
• Mixing bowl (for the mayo and cheese coating)
• Small bowl (for combining breadcrumbs and seasonings)
• Tongs (for handling the chicken)
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Meat thermometer (optional but helpful)
• Parchment paper or air fryer liners (optional for easy cleanup)

A meat thermometer can be especially helpful to ensure the chicken is cooked perfectly without overdoing it. This ensures juicy, tender results every time.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken in the Air Fryer

Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts and slicing them in half lengthwise to create thin cutlets. This helps the chicken cook more evenly and faster in the air fryer. If the pieces are still too thick, you can pound them slightly with a meat mallet to even them out.

In a medium mixing bowl, stir together the mayonnaise and Parmesan cheese until smooth and well combined. In a separate shallow bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Next, coat each chicken cutlet in the mayo-Parmesan mixture. Make sure to cover the entire surface on both sides. Then, press the coated chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, turning to coat evenly and pressing the breadcrumbs in gently to help them stick.

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for about 3 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with non-stick cooking spray or use a parchment liner. Place the coated chicken cutlets into the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.

Air fry the chicken for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The crust should be golden and crispy, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F. If needed, air fry for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to achieve your desired level of crispiness. Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 2 to 3 minutes before serving.

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Expert Tips for Crispy Coating and Juicy Chicken Every Time

For the best possible results, here are a few expert tips to help you make the perfect air fryer Parmesan crusted chicken with mayo. First, be sure not to skip preheating your air fryer. Starting with a hot basket ensures the crust begins to crisp immediately, helping prevent sogginess. Secondly, avoid overcrowding the air fryer. The air needs to circulate around each piece of chicken to cook it evenly and achieve that signature crunch.

Using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs will give your chicken an extra-crispy texture. Also, finely grating the Parmesan ensures it mixes well with the mayo and adheres to the chicken more effectively. Don’t forget to pat the chicken dry before coating—it helps the mayo mixture stick better and prevents excess moisture from interfering with the crust.

Lastly, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute and helps the coating stay intact when you slice or serve it.

Mistakes to Avoid When Making Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Even with a simple recipe like this one, a few common mistakes can prevent the chicken from reaching crispy perfection. One of the biggest issues is not drying the chicken before coating. If there’s too much moisture, the coating won’t adhere properly, and the result may be soggy rather than crispy. Another common misstep is applying the coating too thickly. While it might seem like more is better, an overly thick layer of mayo or breadcrumbs can make the crust heavy and uneven.

It’s also important not to under-season. While the mayo and Parmesan add flavor, the seasoning in the breadcrumb mix is key to bringing out the full savory profile of the dish. Don’t skip the garlic powder, paprika, or onion powder—they each add depth. Overcrowding the air fryer is another big mistake, as it prevents even cooking and crisping. Always cook in a single layer, even if it means making two batches.

How to Serve and Garnish This Flavorful Chicken Dish

Once your air fryer Parmesan crusted chicken with mayo is cooked to golden perfection, it’s time to think about how to serve it. This chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, making it a versatile addition to your meal plan. For a classic dinner plate, serve it with mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli. For a lighter option, pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables like carrots or zucchini.

You can also slice the chicken and use it in wraps, sandwiches, or on top of pasta for a quick and easy meal. For extra flavor, drizzle with a bit of lemon juice or serve with your favorite dipping sauce—ranch, honey mustard, or garlic aioli all work beautifully. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan just before serving for a final touch that adds both flavor and visual appeal.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers the Right Way

If you have any leftovers, storing and reheating them properly will ensure they retain their crispy texture and flavor. Allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3 to 5 minutes, or until warmed through and crisp again.

You can also reheat in the oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can make the crust soggy. If you need to microwave, do so in short intervals and use a paper towel to absorb extra moisture. While this chicken can technically be frozen, the texture is best when enjoyed fresh or within a few days.

Tasty Variations and Substitutions to Try

This air fryer Parmesan crusted chicken with mayo is easy to customize based on your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a spicier version, add a dash of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mix. You can also try using Dijon mustard mixed with the mayo for a tangy kick, or swap the Parmesan with a different hard cheese like Asiago or Romano for a different flavor profile.

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and check that your Parmesan is certified gluten-free. For a low-carb option, use crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs. You can even try using Greek yogurt in place of mayo if you’re looking for a lighter variation, though the texture may differ slightly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Mayo

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and remain juicy. Adjust cooking time as needed.

Can I use light mayonnaise?
Absolutely. Light mayo works well and still creates a creamy, flavorful coating.

Can I make this recipe without breadcrumbs?
Yes, though the texture will be different. You can try crushed nuts or pork rinds as an alternative.

What’s the best way to ensure the coating sticks?
Dry the chicken thoroughly before coating, press the breadcrumbs in gently, and preheat the air fryer.

Final Thoughts on This Easy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

This air fryer Parmesan crusted chicken with mayo is everything a great dinner recipe should be—simple, flavorful, quick, and satisfying. With a crisp exterior and juicy interior, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, yet special enough for a weekend meal. Plus, with the versatility to serve it in numerous ways and customize it to your liking, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again. Thanks to the air fryer, you can enjoy the indulgent taste of fried chicken with far less fat and hassle. Whether you’re new to air frying or already obsessed, this recipe is a must-try.

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