Crispy & Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances crispy and juicy flavors, look no further than this air fryer chicken Parmesan. This delightful recipe marries the classic taste of Italian-style chicken with the modern convenience of the air fryer, making it a quick weeknight dinner that feels special. With its golden exterior and cheesy topping, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your household, whether you’re serving it to the family or impressing guests during a casual gathering.
Why you’ll love this dish
There are countless reasons to fall in love with air fryer chicken Parmesan. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Not only is this recipe budget-friendly, but it also transforms chicken into a flavorful meal that even the pickiest eaters will adore. Perfect for busy weekdays, it’s a dinnertime savior you can have on the table in no time without sacrificing any of that classic taste you crave.
“This chicken Parmesan is the best of both worlds—it’s crispy without the guilt! My kids ask for it every week!” – Sarah M.
The cooking process explained
Making crispy and juicy air fryer chicken Parmesan is a simple, step-by-step process. You’ll start by preparing the chicken, then set up your breading station, and finally, the air fryer will do its magic. With just a few straightforward steps, you’ll end up with a delicious dish that’s sure to impress!
What you’ll need
To get started on this mouthwatering air fryer chicken Parmesan, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total), halved horizontally
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray
- 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Additional grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish, optional)
Feel free to substitute ingredients if you have specific dietary needs! For instance, gluten-free breadcrumbs work beautifully in place of traditional panko.
Step-by-step instructions
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Prepare the Chicken: Start by slicing the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create four thinner cutlets. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure a crispy finish.
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Set Up Your Breading Station: Arrange three shallow dishes—mix flour with salt and pepper in the first, place the beaten eggs in the second, and combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder in the third.
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Bread the Chicken: Dredge each cutlet in the flour mixture, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with the panko mixture. Make sure they’re well covered for optimal crunch!
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Preheat the Air Fryer: Heat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when you are.
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Air Fry the Chicken: Spray the air fryer basket lightly with olive oil, arrange the chicken cutlets in a single layer, and spray the top with olive oil for added crispness.
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Cook to Golden Perfection: Air fry the chicken for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
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Add the Toppings: Spoon marinara sauce over each cutlet and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
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Melt the Cheese: Return the chicken to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Serve and Garnish: Carefully remove the chicken from the air fryer, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your culinary masterpiece!
Best ways to enjoy it
Air fryer chicken Parmesan can be served in a variety of delightful ways. Plate the chicken on a bed of spaghetti or zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative. Pair it with a fresh salad, steamed veggies, or garlic bread to round out your meal. For a fun twist, create a chicken Parmesan sandwich using a soft ciabatta roll, layering the chicken, marinara, and cheese inside for a satisfying lunch option.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your leftover crispy and juicy chicken Parmesan fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
For reheating, the best way to restore the chicken’s crispiness is to pop it back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. Avoid using the microwave, which might lead to soggy results.
Pro chef tips
- Ensure the chicken is completely dry before breading; this will help the coating stick better.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cooking in batches ensures even cooking and crispiness.
- For a little heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture or try a spicy marinara sauce.
Creative twists
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Consider using fresh mozzarella instead of shredded for a gooey texture. You can also try adding sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers on top for an extra punch of flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier version, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or use egg whites instead of whole eggs for the breading.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare the chicken Parmesan?
Total preparation time is about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more moisture but be sure to adjust the cooking time as they may take slightly longer to reach the safe internal temperature.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s a fantastic option for meal prep. Just follow the storage guidelines for the best results—a delicious meal awaiting you later in the week!
With its crispy coating, juicy interior, and gooey cheese, this air fryer chicken Parmesan will surely become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating a dish that’s healthy while still being utterly indulgent!
Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients
Method
- Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create four thinner cutlets. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Arrange three shallow dishes: mix flour with salt and pepper in the first, place the beaten eggs in the second, and combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder in the third.
- Dredge each cutlet in the flour mixture, dip it in the beaten eggs, and coat it with the panko mixture.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil, arrange the chicken cutlets in a single layer, and spray the tops.
- Air fry the chicken for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Spoon marinara sauce over each cutlet and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Return the chicken to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot.
