Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

Air fryer chicken Parmesan is a healthier, quick twist on the classic Italian dish. With tender chicken coated in crispy breadcrumbs, savory marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.

Chef’s Tips

• Double Dip for Crispier Coating: Coat the chicken in egg and breadcrumbs twice for a thicker, crunchier crust.
• Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating ensures even cooking and a crispy golden crust.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Grating fresh Parmesan into the breadcrumb mixture elevates the flavor.

Ingredients

• 4 Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless, and pounded evenly for consistent cooking.
• 2 cups Breadcrumbs: Italian seasoned breadcrumbs add extra flavor.
• 2 Eggs: Beaten, to help the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.
• 4 slices Provolone Cheese: Melts beautifully for a creamy finish.
• 1 tbsp Garlic Powder: Adds a savory kick to the breading.
• 1 cup Marinara Sauce: Warm and tangy, for topping.
• Salt and Pepper to Taste: Essential seasonings to enhance flavor.

Substitutions

• Breadcrumbs: Use panko for an extra crispy texture or whole wheat breadcrumbs for a healthier option.
• Provolone Cheese: Swap with mozzarella or Parmesan for a different cheesy flavor.
• Marinara Sauce: Substitute with homemade tomato sauce or pesto for a unique twist.

Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
2. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness, ensuring they cook uniformly.
3. Set up a breading station: one bowl with beaten eggs and another with breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each chicken breast into the egg, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture. Repeat this process to double-coat for extra crispiness.
5. Place the chicken breasts in the preheated air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap. Air fry for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
6. While the chicken cooks, warm the marinara sauce over low heat.
7. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the air fryer. Spoon warm marinara sauce over each piece and top with a slice of provolone cheese.
8. Return the chicken to the air fryer for 1–2 minutes to melt the cheese.
9. Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Topping Ideas

• Fresh basil leaves for garnish.
• Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Grated Parmesan for extra cheesiness.

Reheating and Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
• Reheating: Use the air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness, or heat in an oven for 10–15 minutes at 350°F.

FAQs

Air fryer chicken Parmesan offers the best of both worlds: the comfort of a classic dish and the healthiness of air frying. It’s a surefire hit with both kids and adults!

Common Mistakes

When air frying chicken Parmesan, it’s important to be mindful of a few common mistakes to ensure the best results. Here are some common errors to avoid:

1. Overcrowding the air fryer: Placing too many chicken breasts in the air fryer at once can hinder proper air circulation and result in uneven cooking. It’s best to cook the chicken in batches, allowing space between each piece for the hot air to circulate effectively.
2. Not preheating the air fryer: Preheating the air fryer is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior. Just like preheating an oven, allow the air fryer to reach the desired temperature before adding the chicken. This helps to ensure even cooking and a golden crust.
3. Neglecting to preheat the breadcrumbs: While not a mandatory step, preheating the breadcrumbs in the air fryer for a few minutes before coating the chicken can enhance their crispiness. It helps to toast the breadcrumbs slightly and aids in achieving a crunchier coating.
4. Skipping the breading process: Properly coating the chicken with breadcrumbs is essential for a crispy and flavorful result. Make sure to dip the chicken in beaten eggs and fully coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the crumbs onto the chicken to ensure they adhere well.
5. Using excessive oil or butter: One advantage of air frying is the reduced need for oil. Avoid adding too much oil or butter to the breadcrumb mixture or directly to the chicken. The air fryer will already provide the necessary crispness without excessive added fat.
6. Not monitoring the cooking time: While air frying provides faster cooking times compared to traditional methods, it’s still important to monitor the chicken to avoid overcooking. Check the chicken periodically to ensure it’s cooked through and has reached the desired level of crispness.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can achieve perfectly cooked and delicious air fryer chicken Parmesan with a crispy coating and juicy interior.

More Air Fryer Recipes

• Keto Air Fryer Apricot Glazed Chicken Thighs
• Air Fryer Crescent Ham and Cheese Pockets
• Air Fryer Chicken Wings
• Air Fryer Chicken Taquitos

This air fryer chicken Parmesan recipe offers a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods without sacrificing flavor. It’s a simple and quick way to enjoy a classic Italian dish with a crispy twist.