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Chicken Parmesan Recipe Easy Healthy Air Fryer Dinner in 30 Minutes

air fryer chicken parmesan - featured image

This easy, healthy air fryer chicken parmesan delivers crispy, golden chicken topped with melty mozzarella and tangy marinara in just 30 minutes. It’s a lighter, mess-free twist on the Italian classic—perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (Italian-style or plain)
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, or Italian blend)
  • Olive oil spray
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons additional grated parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
  • Fresh basil leaves, torn (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Place chicken breasts between two sheets of parchment paper or plastic wrap and pound to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. Set up a breading station: In one bowl, add flour. In a second bowl, beat eggs. In a third bowl, combine panko, 1/4 cup parmesan, and Italian herbs.
  3. Dredge each chicken piece in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into beaten eggs, then press into the panko-parmesan mixture, ensuring coating sticks well.
  4. Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes if required.
  5. Spray air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Place chicken in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Spray tops of chicken lightly with oil.
  6. Air fry at 400°F for 8 minutes. Flip chicken, spray again, and air fry for another 4-6 minutes, until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
  7. Spoon 2-3 tablespoons marinara over each piece. Top with 1/4 cup mozzarella and a sprinkle of parmesan. Return to air fryer for 2-3 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Transfer to a plate and let rest for 2 minutes. Garnish with torn basil if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

For gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and panko. For dairy-free, use plant-based cheeses. Don’t overcrowd the air fryer; work in batches for best crispiness. Let chicken rest before serving for juicier results. You can bread chicken up to 6 hours ahead and refrigerate until ready to cook.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken parmesan, air fryer, healthy, easy, dinner, Italian, quick, weeknight, gluten-free option, dairy-free option