There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a perfectly crispy, golden-brown chicken breast with a rich, cheesy crust. As someone who loves quick yet delicious meals, I’ve found that using an air fryer not only cuts down on cooking time but also delivers an unbeatable crunch without excess oil. This Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breast with Mayo is one of my go-to recipes—it’s juicy, flavorful, and so easy to make.
What I love most about this dish is how the mayonnaise keeps the chicken tender while helping the Parmesan coating stick beautifully. The air fryer does the rest, giving that irresistible texture we all crave. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe never disappoints. Let’s get into what you’ll need and how to make it!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken breast: The star of the dish! Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are evenly thick so they cook uniformly. If they’re too thick, you can butterfly or pound them slightly for even cooking.
Mayonnaise: This acts as both a binder and a moisture-locker, ensuring the chicken stays juicy while helping the crust adhere. Full-fat mayo works best for maximum flavor and crispiness.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best texture and melt-in-your-mouth savoriness. Pre-shredded cheese can work in a pinch, but it often contains anti-caking agents that may affect crispiness.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are ideal for extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work too. For a gluten-free option, almond flour or crushed pork rinds can be used.
Garlic powder: A little goes a long way in adding depth to the crust. If you love garlic, you can also add a pinch of onion powder for extra flavor.
Paprika: This adds a subtle smokiness and a touch of color to the crust. Smoked paprika would be a great alternative if you want a deeper flavor.
Salt & black pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing all the other flavors. Freshly cracked pepper is always best!
Ingredients List
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (Panko preferred)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
How to Make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breast with Mayo
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel to ensure the coating sticks well. If they’re uneven in thickness, lightly pound them to an even size for consistent cooking.
Step 2: Mix the Coating
In a shallow bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well so the spices are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Spread a generous layer of mayonnaise over each chicken breast, covering all sides. Then, press the chicken into the Parmesan mixture, making sure it’s fully coated.
Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken in the basket in a single layer, leaving space between them. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until the crust is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing. This keeps the juices locked in. Serve with a squeeze of lemon or a side salad!
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Even Thickness: Pound thicker parts of the chicken so it cooks evenly.
- Don’t Skip Preheating: Preheating the air fryer ensures a crispier crust.
- Spray Lightly: For extra crispiness, lightly spray the coated chicken with oil before air frying.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
- Double Coating: For a thicker crust, dip the chicken in mayo and breadcrumbs twice.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes! Thighs will be juicier but may need a slightly longer cooking time.
Can I bake this instead of air frying?
Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden and cooked through.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer to maintain crispiness.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Swap breadcrumbs for almond flour or gluten-free panko.
This recipe is a game-changer—easy, delicious, and perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy your crispy, cheesy chicken!