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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

crispy air fryer chicken parmesan - featured image

A quick and easy air fryer chicken parmesan recipe with a golden-brown crispy crust and melty cheese, perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour (can substitute gluten-free flour)
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • Olive oil spray
  • Marinara sauce, 2-3 tablespoons per chicken breast
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Trim excess fat from chicken breasts. Place each breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and pound to an even thickness of about ½ inch.
  2. Season both sides of the chicken breasts lightly with salt and pepper.
  3. Set up three shallow bowls: one with ½ cup flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, dried Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
  4. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat evenly with the breadcrumb mixture. Place on a plate or baking sheet.
  5. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 3 minutes.
  6. Spray the air fryer basket lightly with olive oil spray. Arrange chicken breasts in a single layer without overlapping. Spray tops lightly with oil.
  7. Cook in the air fryer for 10 minutes, then flip the chicken, spray again, and cook for another 6-8 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and crust is golden brown.
  8. Remove chicken and spoon 2-3 tablespoons marinara sauce over each breast. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
  9. Return to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  10. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired and serve hot.

Notes

If the crust browns too quickly, reduce air fryer temperature by 10-15°F. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed. For gluten-free, substitute flour and panko with gluten-free alternatives. For dairy-free, use vegan cheese and egg substitutes like flaxseed or aquafaba.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken parmesan, crispy chicken parmesan, easy chicken parmesan, air fryer recipes, quick dinner, family meal