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This Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan recipe makes a weeknight dinner quick and satisfying without the mess of deep frying. It gives you crispy chicken with melty mozzarella and rich tomato sauce in under half an hour, perfect for busy evenings when you want something comforting but simple.
I often lean on this recipe when I want Italian comfort food but don&t have time to wait. It has become a go-to for me on nights when I want delicious food fast and a little indulgence without the guilt.
Ingredients
- Chicken breast: split thin so it cooks quickly and evenly. Pick fresh, plump breasts for the best texture.
- Eggs: help the breadcrumb coating stick and create a nice crust. Use large eggs for consistency.
- Panko bread crumbs: provide extra crunch so your chicken has that satisfying texture you want. Fresh crumbs work best.
- Parmesan cheese: adds salty, savory depth to the coating and finishing topping. Grate your own if you can for more flavor.
- Italian seasoning: brings classic herb flavors without extra effort.
- Salt, paprika, and black pepper: season the crust and balance the flavors. Use quality spices for noticeable differences.
- Tomato sauce: for topping. Choose a simple sauce with good flavor to complement the chicken.
- Mozzarella cheese: melts beautifully for that gooey finish everyone loves. Fresh shredded works best but store-bought is fine too.
Instructions
- Build The Base:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit so it&s hot and ready when you place the chicken inside. This helps achieve a crispy crust.
- Butterfly The Chicken:
- Slice the chicken breast horizontally all the way through so you have two thinner pieces. This helps the chicken cook quickly and evenly. Pat the pieces dry to help the coating stick better.
- Prepare Egg Wash:
- Whisk together two large eggs in a shallow dish. This will be the sticky layer that the breadcrumbs cling to.
- Mix The Coating:
- In another shallow dish, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, paprika, and black pepper. This flavorful mixture forms your crispy crust.
- Coat The Chicken:
- Dip each chicken piece into the egg wash making sure the excess drips off so the coating is not soggy. Press each piece firmly into the breadcrumb mix making sure it&s well covered for maximum crunch.
- Ready The Air Fryer:
- Spray the air fryer basket with a non-aerosol oil spray to prevent sticking. Also spray both sides of the coated chicken lightly to help it crisp up nicely.
- Cook The Chicken:
- Place the chicken pieces in the basket and cook for five minutes on one side. Flip and cook for another five minutes or until lightly golden and crispy.
- Add Toppings And Finish:
- Top each chicken piece with half of the tomato sauce and shredded mozzarella. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese evenly on top then cook for another two minutes to melt the cheese. Make sure the internal temperature reaches at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit before serving.
My favorite part is the crispy Parmesan crust that gets golden in the air fryer while the cheese melts perfectly on top. It reminds me of cozy family dinners when my mom would use the oven but with much less waiting around. This recipe always brings that familiar comfort with an easy twist.
Storage tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to bring back the crisp texture rather than microwaving which can make it soggy.
Ingredient swaps
You can swap mozzarella for provolone or fontina for a different cheese flavor. Use turkey breast for a leaner protein or bread crumbs seasoned with fresh herbs for an extra boost of flavor.
Serving ideas
Serve this chicken parmesan with spaghetti and marinara or a crisp green salad for a light contrast. Garlic bread or roasted vegetables are also great sides for a heartier plate.
This recipe combines ease and flavor for a perfect weeknight meal that the whole family will love.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → How do you ensure the chicken stays juicy?
Butterflying the chicken breast helps it cook evenly and quickly, preserving moisture inside. Additionally, cooking at the right temperature prevents drying out.
- → What is the best way to get a crispy coating in the air fryer?
Coating the chicken evenly with egg and Panko mixed with Parmesan, then spraying with oil, helps achieve a golden, crispy crust without deep frying.
- → Can I use different cheeses for topping?
Yes, mozzarella provides meltiness, but feel free to experiment with provolone or fontina for varied flavor and texture.
- → How long should I cook the chicken in the air fryer?
Cook the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side at 400°F, then top with sauce and cheese and cook for another 2 minutes to melt the cheese.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Classic options include pasta tossed in olive oil and garlic or a crisp, fresh salad that balances the richness of the chicken.