Parmesan Crusted Chicken With Mayo (Air Fryer Recipe)

If you’re craving something crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor—but without the guilt of deep frying—then this Parmesan Crusted Chicken With Mayo is going to become your go-to dinner. Thanks to the magic of air fryer cooking, this dish comes out beautifully golden on the outside and tender on the inside, every single time.

This recipe is a must-try for busy weeknights, family dinners, or anyone looking to upgrade their air fryer meals game. The secret ingredient? Mayonnaise. It helps create the crispiest, most flavorful crust imaginable, and it keeps the chicken moist throughout. With only a handful of pantry staples and minimal prep, you’ll have a satisfying, protein-packed meal ready in minutes.

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WHY PARMESAN CRUSTED CHICKEN WITH MAYO BELONGS IN YOUR RECIPE ROTATION

Let’s be honest—chicken can get a little boring if you don’t switch things up. This chicken with mayo and parmesan not only brings texture and taste but also simplifies the cooking process. There’s no need for egg washes or complicated breading techniques. Just spread, coat, and air fry.

Even better? It’s one of the most efficient air fryer ideas you can whip up when you’re short on time and energy but still want to eat well. It’s comforting, crunchy, and endlessly adaptable for various diets and flavor preferences.

AIR FRYER PARMESAN CRUSTED CHICKEN: HEALTHIER COMFORT FOOD

Fried chicken is undeniably delicious, but air frying achieves that same crispy satisfaction without submerging your food in oil. This recipe uses your air fryer oven to circulate hot air, crisping the breadcrumb coating to perfection while the inside stays juicy and tender.

With this air fryer parmesan crusted chicken, you’re getting that comfort-food satisfaction without the excess fat and calories. It’s a win-win. Plus, the cleanup is practically non-existent compared to traditional frying.

INGREDIENTS FOR PARMESAN CRUSTED CHICKEN WITH MAYO

To serve 4 people, you’ll need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko work well)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Olive oil spray (for crisping in the air fryer)

These ingredients create a beautiful golden crust while keeping the chicken moist and flavorful. If desired, you can use light mayonnaise to reduce fat content.

KITCHEN TOOLS & AIR FRYER GEAR YOU’LL NEED

To make this recipe, you’ll need:

• Air fryer or air fryer oven
• Small mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula for spreading mayo
• Plate or shallow dish for parmesan-breadcrumb mixture
• Tongs
• Cooking spray or oil mister
• Meat thermometer (optional, but recommended)

No need for stovetop pans or grease splatter—this is food air fryer perfection at its easiest.

STEP-BY-STEP: HOW TO MAKE PARMESAN CRUSTED CHICKEN IN THE AIR FRYER

STEP 1: PREHEAT YOUR AIR FRYER

Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat while you prepare the chicken. This ensures even cooking and a crispy finish.

STEP 2: PREP THE CHICKEN

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with a pinch of salt and pepper.

STEP 3: MIX THE MAYO SPREAD

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir until well blended.

STEP 4: PREP THE CRUST COATING

On a plate or shallow dish, mix together the parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. This will be your crispy coating.

STEP 5: COAT THE CHICKEN

Spread a layer of the seasoned mayo mixture on the top side of each chicken breast. Then press the mayo-coated side firmly into the parmesan-breadcrumb mix to coat.

STEP 6: AIR FRY TO PERFECTION

Place the chicken breasts in a single layer in the air fryer basket, coated side up. Lightly mist with olive oil spray for extra crispiness.

Air fry for 14–18 minutes, depending on thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). No flipping needed!

STEP 7: REST AND SERVE

Let the chicken rest for 2–3 minutes after cooking. Serve hot with your favorite side dish or over a crisp salad.

WHY MAYO WORKS: TENDER CHICKEN WITH MINIMAL EFFORT

It might surprise some, but chicken with mayo isn’t just a trend—it’s a technique. Mayo serves three purposes here:

1. Acts as a binder – It helps the parmesan and breadcrumbs stick beautifully.
2. Adds moisture – Ensures the chicken stays tender, even at high heat.
3. Enhances flavor – The slight tanginess boosts the savoriness of the dish.

And no, it doesn’t taste like mayonnaise once cooked. It simply enhances the overall richness.

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BEST TIPS FOR AIR FRYER COOKING PERFECTION

• Don’t overcrowd the basket: Airflow is crucial for crispiness.
• Use similar-sized chicken breasts: For even cooking across all pieces.
• Use a meat thermometer: To avoid overcooking and drying out the chicken.
• Spray lightly with oil: Helps mimic that golden fried texture.
• Preheat the air fryer: Ensures immediate surface crisping.

These tricks will take your air fryer meals from good to restaurant-quality every time.

AIR FRYER IDEAS: CUSTOMIZATIONS AND FLAVOR VARIATIONS

Want to make this dish your own? Try these ideas:

• Spicy kick: Add paprika or chili flakes to the mayo mix.
• Low-carb version: Use almond flour and crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs.
• Lemon herb: Add fresh lemon zest and thyme for a bright twist.
• Cheese swap: Try shredded asiago or Romano for a different profile.

With so many ways to play, this becomes one of the most flexible air fryer ideas in your dinner arsenal.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR PARMESAN CRUSTED CHICKEN

Here’s what pairs beautifully with this crispy, cheesy chicken:

• Roasted or steamed veggies (broccoli, asparagus, or green beans)
• Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
• A side of pasta with garlic olive oil
• Crisp Caesar salad or mixed greens
• Rice pilaf or quinoa

You can also slice the chicken and serve it in wraps or over pasta for next-day leftovers.

STORING & REHEATING AIR FRYER CHICKEN

STORAGE

Let leftovers cool fully. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

REHEATING

To reheat and keep the crust crispy:

• Air fryer: 350°F for 5–6 minutes
• Oven: 375°F for 10 minutes
• Microwave: Not ideal—can make the crust soggy, but works in a pinch

Freezing is not recommended due to the mayo and parmesan mixture, which can change texture when thawed.

AIR FRYER MEALS FOR BUSY WEEKNIGHTS

This is the kind of recipe that belongs on your regular rotation of air fryer meals. It’s:

• Quick: Under 30 minutes from start to finish
• Satisfying: High protein, low fuss
• Customizable: Great for picky eaters and adventurous cooks alike
• Minimal cleanup: One bowl, one dish, one air fryer

It’s easy to see why air fryer oven recipes like this one are exploding in popularity.

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FAQ: PARMESAN CRUSTED CHICKEN WITH MAYO IN THE AIR FRYER

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Boneless thighs work great—adjust cooking time to 18–20 minutes.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Use almond flour and skip breadcrumbs for a low-carb version.

What kind of mayo should I use?
Any kind—classic, light, or even avocado oil-based versions work well.

Can I prep this in advance?
Yes, coat the chicken and refrigerate for up to 12 hours before air frying.

Can I bake this instead of air frying?
Yes. Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes or until golden and fully cooked.

CONCLUSION

This Parmesan Crusted Chicken With Mayo recipe is everything a weeknight meal should be—quick, delicious, and practically foolproof thanks to the air fryer. With minimal prep and max flavor, it’s a must-have for anyone building a collection of go-to air fryer meals.

Ready to level up your food air fryer game? Give this recipe a try tonight and enjoy the golden, cheesy goodness. If you loved it, be sure to share it, pin it, and subscribe for more air fryer oven recipes that make life easier and tastier.

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