Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

Name: Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 boneless skinless chicken breast (or two small); 2 large eggs; ¾ cup Panko bread crumbs; ¼ cup + 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese; ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning; ¾ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon paprika; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ¼ cup seasoned tomato sauce; ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Recipe By:

jesseca

Posted:

March 12, 2025

Updated:

March 12, 2025

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Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan is a dish that brings comfort food to the next level while making your kitchen feel like a cozy Italian bistro. Imagine the sound of that satisfying crunch as you bite into perfectly breaded chicken, melting mozzarella, and zesty tomato sauce. It’s a dish that feels indulgent but doesn’t weigh you down. Plus, the air fryer cuts down on oil without compromising flavor, making it an ideal choice for those busy weeknights or relaxed weekends when you just want something delicious and easy. Throughout this post, I’m excited to share this wonderful Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan recipe that’s not only simple to follow but also elevates your home dining experience!

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So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get ready to whip up something special. You’ll find that with just a few ingredients and a sprinkle of love, you can impress your family or friends with minimal time and effort. Trust me, once you try this Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan, it’ll become a go-to meal you want to make again and again.

Why This Recipe Works

Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan takes the classic comfort food you adore and transforms it into a healthier version without sacrificing flavor. The air fryer ensures that the chicken remains juicy while achieving a delightful crispy texture, all while cutting down on excessive oil. The result? You enjoy all the comfort with less guilt on your plate.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

This Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan is the perfect blend of cheesy goodness, savory chicken, and tangy tomato sauce. It’s not just quick and easy to prepare but also a foolproof recipe that guarantees satisfaction with every bite. The crunch of the Panko coating paired with the melty cheese will have everyone asking for seconds. And since it’s made in an air fryer, cleanup is a breeze—no splattered oil to worry about.

Ingredients

1 boneless skinless chicken breast (or two small)
2 large eggs
¾ cup Panko bread crumbs
¼ cup + 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
¾ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ cup seasoned tomato sauce
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Preparing Your Chicken Parmesan

Preheat Your Air Fryer

Start by preheating your air fryer to 400 degrees F. This ensures that your chicken will cook evenly and achieve that crispy finish. A hot air fryer is like a warm welcome mat for your chicken, letting it get nice and golden.

Prepare the Chicken

Butterfly the chicken breast to create two thinner pieces, making them cook more quickly. Place the chicken on a cutting board, press down with your hand, and slice through the middle. Pat dry the chicken with a paper towel to ensure the coating sticks well. This step is key to that crispy exterior we all love.

Whisk the Eggs

In a large shallow dish, whisk together the 2 eggs until combined. This step is crucial for helping the breadcrumb mixture adhere to the chicken. Make sure they’re nice and mixed so all that eggy goodness can do its job!

Combine Bread Crumb Mixture

In another shallow dish, mix together the Panko bread crumbs, ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, paprika, and black pepper. This flavorful blend will create a deliciously crispy coating. You can already smell the herbs wafting through the air as you mix—what’s not to love?

Coat the Chicken

Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, making sure it’s fully coated, and let any excess drip off. Then, press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring you coat both sides thoroughly. Don’t be shy—give it a good press so you capture all those crunchy bits!

Prepare the Air Fryer Basket

Spray the air fryer basket with a non-aerosol oil spray. It’s essential for preventing sticking and ensuring even cooking. A little spray goes a long way in achieving that perfect crunch on your chicken.

Air Fry the Chicken

Place the coated chicken pieces into the basket without overcrowding. Spray both sides of the chicken with oil spray. Air fry for 5 minutes on one side until lightly golden, then flip and cook for another 5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when you hear that satisfying sizzling sound.

Add Tomato Sauce and Cheese

Remove the chicken from the air fryer and top each piece with half of the tomato sauce. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and the remaining tablespoon of Parmesan cheese over the top. This is where the magic really happens, as the cheese melts into a bubbly blanket of deliciousness.

Final Cook

Place the chicken back into the air fryer and cook for an additional 2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches a minimum of 165 degrees F for safe consumption. That’s the sweet spot for juicy chicken!

Serve It Up

Transfer the glorious Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan onto plates and serve hot. This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, salad, or a side of crusty bread. The aroma will fill your kitchen, and you’ll feel like a culinary superstar as you dish it out.

Serving Suggestions

Consider serving this delightful dish alongside spaghetti, a fresh garden salad, or garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a meal with friends, your plate will be a hit.

Tips for Success

Ensure the chicken is patted dry before breading for the best adherence.
Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or mozzarella blend for varied flavors.
Use a meat thermometer for accuracy; chicken must reach 165 degrees F. This trick can save you from any kitchen mishaps!

Variations

Add vegetables like sautéed spinach or roasted red peppers on top for an extra flavor kick.
Substitute the chicken with eggplant slices or portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. Both options expand your Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan experience without losing the essence of the dish.

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for the best texture. Enjoy that crispy coating again without the fuss of starting from scratch!

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Frozen chicken needs more time, and you want to keep the cooking even.

Can I prepare the breading in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the breadcrumb mixture and store it in the fridge for a few days. Organization in the kitchen is a game changer.

Is it necessary to use Panko bread crumbs?
While Panko provides a crispier texture, regular bread crumbs can work in a pinch. Just remember, they may not have that same crunch.

What should I serve with Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan?
It pairs well with pasta, salads, or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Each option brings a new flair to the table!

Can I use store-bought sauce?
Definitely! Just grab your favorite jar of tomato sauce for convenience. Sometimes, the easiest options can taste just as rich.

Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan is not just a recipe; it’s a culinary adventure that elevates a traditional favorite into a healthier meal without losing any delicious charm. Enjoy the crunch, the flavors, and the satisfaction of a homemade dinner that is both wholesome and indulgent. With this effortless technique, you’ll be whipping up this classic dish in no time, creating memories with every bite.

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Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

Why This Recipe Works

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

Ingredients