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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan: Quick Weeknight Dinner

Close-up of two golden, crispy pieces of air fryer chicken parmesan topped with melted mozzarella and marinara sauce.
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Make classic Chicken Parmesan in your air fryer for a crispy, cheesy dinner with less oil. This recipe is fast, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

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  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each), pounded to 1/2-inch thickness
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Cooking spray (olive oil or avocado oil based)
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Set up a standard breading station with three shallow dishes. Place flour in the first dish. Whisk eggs in the second dish. In the third dish, combine panko breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  2. Dredge the chicken: Take one pounded chicken breast and coat it evenly in flour, shaking off excess. Dip it into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off. Finally, press the chicken firmly into the panko mixture to ensure a thick, even coating on both sides. Repeat for all cutlets.
  3. Preheat the air fryer: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C).
  4. Air fry the chicken: Place the breaded chicken cutlets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Lightly spray the tops of the cutlets with cooking spray.
  5. Cook the chicken: Air fry for 10 minutes. Flip the cutlets, spray the other side lightly, and continue to cook for another 5 to 8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden brown and crispy.
  6. Add toppings: Once cooked, brush the top of each cutlet with about 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce. Top each piece with one slice of mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese.
  7. Melt the cheese: Return the chicken to the air fryer and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Serve immediately: Garnish with fresh basil, if using. Serve your crispy air fryer chicken parmesan over pasta or with a side salad.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, you can lightly spray the breaded chicken again just before placing it in the air fryer.
  • Use high-quality marinara sauce; since the cooking time is short, the sauce flavor is prominent.
  • If you prefer a lower-carb option, substitute almond flour for the all-purpose flour and use crushed pork rinds instead of panko breadcrumbs.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://dishicious.com/air-fryer-chicken-parmesan/