Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan Perfection
Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan Perfection delivers crispy, golden breaded chicken breasts topped with gooey mozzarella and parmesan cheese, all finished with rich marinara sauce. This quick and convenient recipe is a healthier, mess-free alternative to traditional frying, locking in juicy tenderness while offering classic Italian comfort food flavor in just minutes.
- Author: Emily
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free breadcrumbs)
Chicken and Coating
- 2 thin, evenly pounded chicken breasts (about 1/2 inch thick)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (basil, oregano, etc.)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil spray
Sauce and Cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce, warm
- 1 cup sliced or shredded mozzarella cheese
- Prep the Chicken: Start by pounding your chicken breasts to an even thickness of about half an inch, ensuring they cook evenly and stay juicy. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Set Up the Breading Station: In one bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. In another bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, and your favorite herbs to create a flavorful crispy crust.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken breast first into the whisked egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Then press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated on both sides. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating once more to double-dip.
- Preheat and Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Lightly spray the basket with olive oil spray. Place the coated chicken pieces in a single layer without overcrowding the basket. Lightly spray the tops of the chicken with olive oil spray. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Spoon a generous layer of warm marinara sauce onto each cooked chicken breast, then top with sliced or shredded mozzarella cheese. Return the chicken to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and gooey.
- Serve and Enjoy: Carefully remove the chicken parmesan from the air fryer. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your melty, crispy classic Italian comfort meal.
Notes
- Even Thickness: Pounding the chicken ensures uniform cooking and tenderness.
- Don’t Skip Olive Oil Spray: A light spray helps the breadcrumbs crisp perfectly without deep frying.
- Watch Your Air Fryer Size: Avoid overcrowding the basket for even air circulation and best crispiness.
- Double Layer Breading Option: For a thicker crust, dip the chicken twice in egg and breadcrumbs.
- Use Fresh Cheese: Fresh mozzarella melts better and tastes creamier than processed varieties.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with toppings
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 130 mg
Keywords: Air Fryer, Chicken Parmesan, Italian, Crispy Chicken, Quick Dinner, Comfort Food, Gluten-Free Option