Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

Experience the delightful crunch and cheesy goodness of this Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan! Tender chicken breasts are lovingly coated in a flavorful mix of golden breadcrumbs and rich Parmesan cheese, then air-fried to a perfect crispiness that will make your taste buds sing. Topped with a generous layer of homemade marinara sauce and gooey mozzarella, this dish offers a lighter take on a beloved Italian classic. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, serve it alongside a bed of pasta or a fresh garden salad for a complete, satisfying meal. This recipe pays homage to the traditional Chicken Parmesan, which hails from Southern Italy, where breadcrumbs were an ingenious way to make chicken more filling and flavorful without weighing it down.

Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • Chicken breasts (2 large, boneless and skinless)
  • Eggs (2, beaten)
  • Breadcrumbs (1 cup)
  • Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated)
  • Garlic powder (1 teaspoon)
  • Salt (1/2 teaspoon)
  • Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon)
  • Olive oil (2 tablespoons, for brushing)
  • Marinara sauce (1 cup, store-bought or homemade)
  • Mozzarella cheese (1 cup, shredded)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, mixing well to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
  3. Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, making sure they are fully coated, allowing excess egg to drip off.
  4. Coat the chicken breasts thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere well.
  5. Brush both sides of the coated chicken breasts with olive oil, enhancing the crispiness during cooking.
  6. Arrange the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap for even cooking.
  7. Air fry the chicken for 8 minutes, then carefully flip them over and continue cooking for an additional 7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is golden brown.
  8. Spoon marinara sauce generously over each chicken breast, then top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
  9. Air fry for an additional 2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  10. Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Dietary Information

Servings: 4 • Dish Type: Main Course • Prep Time: 15 minutes • Cook Time: 20 minutes • Calories: 380 • Fat: 12g • Carbs: 30g • Protein: 40g • Sodium: 700mg • Sugar: 5g