Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan: 5 Steps to Crispy Perfection

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Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan brings a crispy and flavorful twist to a classic Italian-American dish using a healthier cooking method. This recipe features lightly breaded chicken breasts that are air fried to golden perfection and topped with savory marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. It’s a delicious and quick meal perfect for weeknights, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

This easy air fryer chicken parmesan is not just quick; it’s also a healthier option for your dinner table. Here are a few reasons to fall in love:

• It’s a healthy chicken parmesan recipe air fryer style, meaning less oil and fat.
• The air fryer creates a crispy chicken parmesan in air fryer that rivals traditional frying.
• It’s a low-fat version, suitable for those watching their weight.
• Perfect for busy weeknights with a total time of just 25 minutes.
• Ideal for beginners looking to master how to make chicken parmesan in air fryer easily.
• Versatile enough to serve with various sides, like pasta or a fresh salad.

This dish embodies the essence of Italian-American cuisine, making it a must-try!

Ingredients for Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

Gather these items:

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon water
• ½ cup flour
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Non-stick cooking spray

How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create thinner cutlets. Pat the pieces dry thoroughly with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper evenly to taste.
2. Step 2: In a small bowl, beat the egg with 1 tablespoon of water until combined. In another shallow dish, mix together Panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
3. Step 3: Dredge each chicken cutlet in flour, shaking off excess. Then dip into the egg wash, letting excess drip off. Finally, coat with the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere on both sides.
4. Step 4: Heat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) to ensure a crispy crust once the chicken is added.
5. Step 5: Place breaded chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray a generous coat of non-stick cooking spray over the chicken. Cook for 10 minutes, flipping halfway (around 5 minutes) and spray the other side to ensure even crisping.
6. Step 6: After initial cooking, spoon marinara sauce over each chicken piece, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top. Close the air fryer and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until cheese melts and chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Step 7: Remove carefully and serve hot, ideally with cooked pasta or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

Keep these in mind:

• For an even healthier option, try a gluten-free air fryer chicken parmesan recipe using gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Make sure to preheat your air fryer to ensure even cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if necessary for a crispier finish.
• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in Italian dressing before breading.

Best Ways to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

This delicious dish pairs well with:

• Spaghetti or any pasta of your choice, creating a classic Italian meal.
• A fresh side salad for a light and balanced dinner.
• Crusty garlic bread to soak up the marinara sauce.

How to Store and Reheat Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to keep them crispy. This is perfect for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

What’s the secret to perfect Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan?

The key is ensuring the chicken is well-coated with the breadcrumb mixture and not overcrowding the air fryer. This allows for even cooking and crispiness. The combination of Panko breadcrumbs and seasoning gives it a delightful crunch.

Can I make Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken cutlets and bread them ahead of time. Just store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook. This makes it a great option for quick weeknight dinners!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan?

Avoid the mistake of skipping the preheating step, which is crucial for achieving that crispy texture. Also, ensure that you don’t add too much sauce before cooking, as this can make the breading soggy.

Variations of Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

• Use different cheeses like provolone or fontina for a twist on the classic flavor.
• Add fresh basil or spinach to the marinara sauce for added freshness.
• Try a lower-carb version using almond flour instead of traditional breadcrumbs, making it suitable for a keto diet.

Enjoy trying out these variations, and let your culinary creativity flow!

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