Why Make This Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious and healthier alternative to classic fried chicken, Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is the perfect choice. This recipe satisfies your cravings for crispy, savory chicken while keeping things light and less greasy. With its golden-brown outer crust and juicy interior, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and takes minimal time, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.

How to Make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

To whip up this scrumptious Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients and a reliable air fryer. This recipe is not only quick but also ensures maximum flavor and texture, resulting in chicken that’s juicy on the inside and wonderfully crispy on the outside.

Ingredients:

2 chicken breasts
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray

Directions:

Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C).
In a bowl, mix the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Coat the chicken breasts lightly with cooking spray.
Press each chicken breast into the Parmesan mixture until evenly coated.
Place the coated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket.
Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and crispy.
Serve and enjoy your crispy, flavor-packed chicken!

How to Serve Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

This parmesan crusted chicken can be served in a variety of ways. It’s excellent on its own, but you can also pair it with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or a side of pasta to create a well-rounded meal. Consider drizzling some balsamic glaze or your favorite dressing for extra flavor. Whether it’s a family dinner or a meal prep for the week, this chicken dish fits perfectly into any occasion.

How to Store

Leftover Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop the chicken back in the air fryer for a few minutes at a lower temperature to ensure it stays crispy. For longer storage, you may freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months; just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.

Tips to Make

For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in buttermilk for a few hours before breading.
Experiment with different herbs and spices in the breadcrumb mixture to customize the taste to your liking.
Make sure to press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken to help the coating adhere better during cooking.

Variation

If you’re looking to switch things up, you can try adding different types of cheese such as mozzarella or cheddar to the breadcrumb mixture. You can also add a touch of paprika for some spiciness or incorporate herbs like basil or oregano to bring in fresh Italian flavors. For a gluten-free option, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts; however, be sure to thaw them completely before seasoning and breading. Cooking time may also increase slightly.

Is it necessary to use cooking spray?
While cooking spray helps achieve a golden and crispy texture, you can brush the chicken lightly with olive oil if you prefer a different method of adding fat.

Can I reheat leftover Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Absolutely! You can reheat it in the air fryer or the oven to maintain its crispy texture. Just be sure to heat it until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.