As a new type of heating method with high efficiency, energy saving and environmental protection, microwave heating is more and more widely used in industry. The Maillard reaction under microwave heating has a higher degree of early reaction. The composition of the middle products is different, and the volatile aromatic substances are more abundant. The physiological activities such as the antioxidant activity of the late products are significantly enhanced. Microwave heating has a significant impact on Maillard reaction products. This paper mainly introduces the influencing factors, products analysis methods, products types and application in food and research progress of Maillard reaction under microwave heating.