Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken With Mayo Recipe

The Juiciest Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken With Mayo Recipe

Crispy, golden air fryer parmesan crusted chicken with mayo promises a delightful twist on classic comfort food.

Succulent chicken breasts transform into a mouthwatering meal that takes minimal effort.

Creamy mayonnaise acts as a secret weapon, creating an incredibly rich coating for your poultry.

parmesan cheese adds a sharp, nutty crunch that will make you forget about traditional breading methods.

Simple ingredients come together in less than thirty minutes, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

Lean protein meets irresistible texture in this foolproof recipe that anyone can master.

You’ll want to bookmark this game-changing dish for your next meal.

Mix-Ins for Parmesan Crusted Chicken With Mayo

  • Herbal Fusion Chicken: Replace paprika with mixed dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, and oregano for an aromatic Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
  • Spicy Southwest Chicken: Add chili powder, cayenne, and cumin to the mayo mixture for a zesty, bold southwestern kick.
  • Lemon Pepper Chicken: Incorporate fresh lemon zest and cracked black pepper into the Parmesan coating for a bright, tangy taste.
  • Coconut Crunch Chicken: Swap bread crumbs with shredded coconut for a tropical, crispy exterior that adds unexpected texture and sweetness.

Serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken With Mayo Hot

  • Zesty Mediterranean Platter: Slice chicken into strips and arrange on a colorful platter with olives, cucumber, feta cheese, and a drizzle of tzatziki sauce. Perfect for sharing and showcasing vibrant Mediterranean flavors.
  • Chicken Salad Sensation: Chop the crispy chicken and toss with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light lemon vinaigrette. Creates a protein-packed lunch that's both refreshing and satisfying.
  • Comfort Sandwich Delight: Layer sliced chicken on toasted ciabatta bread with fresh arugula, sliced tomatoes, and a spread of garlic aioli. Transforms the chicken into a gourmet sandwich experience that feels like a restaurant-quality meal.

Keeping Parmesan Crusted Chicken With Mayo Fresh

  • Store cooked chicken in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Wrap individual chicken pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer-safe bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Warm refrigerated chicken in the air fryer at 350F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid using a microwave, which can make the coating soggy and tough.
  • Mix the mayo-Parmesan coating and store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Coat chicken just before cooking to maintain the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

  • Why use mayo for coating chicken?

Mayo helps keep the chicken moist, creates a creamy base for the Parmesan coating, and adds rich flavor while ensuring the breading sticks perfectly to the meat.

  • Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts with thighs, but adjust cooking time slightly since thighs might cook faster and have different thickness.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not automatically. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a crispy coating.

  • How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165F (75C), which guarantees the chicken is safe to eat and prevents overcooking.

What’s Tasty About Parmesan Crusted Chicken With Mayo

  • Savor Authentic Flavors: Transport your taste buds to Tuscany with this rich, creamy chicken dish packed with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Italian seasonings that capture the essence of Mediterranean cuisine.
  • Master Quick Gourmet Cooking: Transform simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal in just a few steps, making you feel like a professional chef without complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.
  • Create Family-Friendly Comfort: Deliver a crowd-pleasing dinner that appeals to both adults and kids, with its familiar chicken base and deliciously creamy sauce that promises clean plates and happy faces.
  • Customize with Ease: Adapt the recipe by serving over pasta, rice, or alongside roasted vegetables, making it versatile for different dietary preferences and meal styles.

Ingredients List for Parmesan Crusted Chicken With Mayo

For the Protein:
  • Chicken Breasts: Lean and tender meat that becomes golden and crispy with the Parmesan coating.
For the Coating:
  • Mayonnaise: Creamy base that helps the Parmesan and seasonings stick to the chicken.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds a rich, salty flavor and helps create a crispy exterior.
For the Seasonings and Crunch:
  • Garlic Powder: Provides a subtle, aromatic flavor to the chicken.
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Enhance the overall taste of the dish.
  • Paprika: Adds a mild, sweet pepper flavor and beautiful color.
  • Bread Crumbs: Optional ingredient that gives an extra crispy texture to the chicken.
For the Cooking Preparation:
  • Cooking Spray: Prevents the chicken from sticking to the air fryer basket.

Parmesan Crusted Chicken With Mayo: How to Make It

Step 1: Fire Up The Air Fryer

Crank the air fryer to a sizzling 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) to get ready for some crispy magic.

Step 2: Whip Up The Flavor Blend

In a mixing bowl, combine these taste-boosting ingredients:
  • Creamy mayonnaise
  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Garlic powder
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Smoky paprika

Stir everything together until you have a deliciously smooth coating mixture.

Step 3: Transform The Chicken

Generously slather each chicken breast with the mayo-Parmesan mixture, ensuring every inch gets coated with the flavor explosion.

Step 4: Add Crunch Factor (Optional)

For extra texture, roll the coated chicken through bread crumbs, creating a super crispy exterior that’ll make taste buds dance.

Step 5: Prepare The Air Fryer Basket

Quickly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent any sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

Step 6: Cook To Perfection

Carefully place the chicken into the air fryer basket and cook for 12-15 minutes.

Flip the chicken halfway through cooking to guarantee even browning and thorough cooking.

Step 7: Check For Doneness

Confirm the chicken has reached a safe internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (75 degrees Celsius) using a meat thermometer.

Step 8: Rest And Serve

Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes, letting the juices redistribute and ensuring maximum tenderness before serving.

Tips for Parmesan Crusted Chicken With Mayo

  • Ensure chicken breasts are similar in thickness for even cooking, using a meat mallet to pound them if needed.
  • Pat chicken dry before coating to help the mayo-Parmesan mixture adhere better and create a crispier crust.
  • Use fresh Parmesan cheese for maximum flavor and better melting properties compared to pre-grated options.
  • Add herbs like dried basil or oregano to the mayo mixture for extra depth and aromatic complexity.
  • Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to guarantee perfectly cooked, juicy chicken without overcooking.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken With Mayo Recipe

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken With Mayo Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 39 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 2 1x

Description

Parmesan crusted chicken with mayo brings crispy, golden perfection from your air fryer to dinner tables. Cheesy herb-coated chicken delivers a quick, delicious meal with minimal preparation and maximum flavor.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup (60 g) bread crumbs (panko)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1 spray cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Prepare the air fryer by heating it to 400F (200C), ensuring optimal cooking environment.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika to create a flavorful coating.
  3. Thoroughly massage the mayo-Parmesan mixture onto each chicken breast, ensuring complete and even coverage.
  4. For enhanced texture, gently roll the coated chicken in bread crumbs, pressing lightly to help crumbs adhere.
  5. Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking and potential burning.
  6. Carefully arrange the seasoned chicken breasts in the basket, maintaining space between pieces for proper air circulation.
  7. Cook for 12-15 minutes, turning chicken midway through to promote uniform browning and even cooking.
  8. Verify doneness by checking internal temperature reaches 165F (75C) using a meat thermometer.
  9. Remove chicken from air fryer and allow to rest for 5 minutes, which helps retain moisture and allows juices to redistribute.
  10. Serve hot, garnishing with fresh herbs or additional Parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts of even thickness to ensure uniform cooking and prevent dry edges.
  • Pat chicken completely dry before coating to help the mayo-Parmesan mixture adhere better and create a crispier crust.
  • For a gluten-free version, swap regular bread crumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a low-carb, crunchy alternative.
  • Add fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme to the mayo mixture for an extra burst of flavor and aromatic complexity.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 700 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 21 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 120 mg
Maya Thompson

Maya Thompson

Culinary Content Creator & Nutrition Enthusiast

Expertise

Healthy single-serving recipes, Meal prepping for individuals, Integrating nutrition into everyday cooking, Vegetarian and plant-based cuisine​

Education

The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Nutrition, meal planning, and culinary techniques for healthy living.


Maya found her passion in the kitchen by mixing good food with good energy. After earning her culinary degree at The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College, she made it her mission to keep cooking simple, wholesome, and packed with flavor.
At Steelhead Diner, Maya shares easy, healthy recipes built for real life. For Maya, great food seems like a celebration of everyday moments, made better one fresh bite at a time.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star