Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan is a lighter, healthier twist on the classic Italian dish, without sacrificing any of the crispy, cheesy, and flavorful goodness. The air fryer gives the chicken a perfectly crispy coating while keeping it juicy on the inside. With marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, this dish is an easy, quick, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy nights or when you’re craving comfort food.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless, skinless chicken breasts
flour
egg
panko breadcrumbs
Italian seasoning
garlic powder
parmesan cheese
mozzarella cheese (shredded)
marinara sauce
olive oil spray
salt and pepper

directions

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Set up a breading station: In one bowl, add the flour. In a second bowl, beat the egg. In a third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and parmesan cheese.
Dredge each chicken breast first in the flour, then dip in the egg, and finally coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Place the breaded chicken breasts in the basket, ensuring they don’t overlap.
Air fry the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
Once the chicken is cooked, spoon marinara sauce over each piece and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
Return the chicken to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove the chicken from the air fryer and serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or additional parmesan if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2-4 people, depending on portion size.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15-18 minutes
Total time: 25-28 minutes

Variations

For a spicier twist, add red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
Use thin-cut chicken breasts for a faster cook time.
Add a sprinkle of fresh basil on top after cooking for added freshness.

storage/reheating

Store Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to retain the crispy texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used as a substitute for chicken breasts. The cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly.

Do I have to use panko breadcrumbs?
Panko breadcrumbs provide a light, crispy texture, but you can use regular breadcrumbs if you prefer.

Can I make this without an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, then add the sauce and cheese to melt.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken for a quicker version, but you’ll still need to air fry it for a few minutes to crisp up the coating and melt the cheese.

Can I freeze Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan?
Yes, you can freeze the breaded chicken breasts before cooking. When ready to cook, air fry from frozen for 15-18 minutes.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan is a quick and healthier alternative to the traditional recipe, offering all the crispy, cheesy, and flavorful goodness you love, with less oil and mess. It’s a family-friendly meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight, yet elegant enough for a special dinner. This dish is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.