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Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan Recipe

4.8 from 27 reviews

A healthier twist on a classic Italian favorite, this Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan recipe delivers crispy, golden-brown chicken breasts coated in a savory breadcrumb and Parmesan crust, topped with warm marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a quick and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 8 ounces each)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

Breading Station

  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

Toppings

  • ½ cup marinara sauce
  • 6 tbsp reduced-fat mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) to ensure even cooking and a crispy crust.
  2. Season Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts evenly with salt and black pepper to enhance flavor.
  3. Set Up Breading Station: Prepare three shallow bowls—one with seasoned flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
  4. Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast first in the flour, then dip into the egg wash, and finally coat with the panko-Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to adhere well.
  5. Arrange in Air Fryer: Place the breaded chicken breasts in a single layer in the preheated air fryer basket, making sure there’s space between them for proper air circulation.
  6. Cook Chicken: Air fry the chicken for 6 minutes on one side, then flip and cook an additional 6 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  7. Warm Marinara Sauce: While the chicken cooks, gently heat the marinara sauce on the stovetop or in the microwave until warm.
  8. Add Toppings: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer, spoon marinara sauce over each breast, and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
  9. Melt Cheese: Return the topped chicken to the air fryer and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  10. Serve: Serve immediately with your choice of pasta, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Notes

  • If you prefer extra crispiness, spray the breaded chicken lightly with cooking spray before air frying.
  • For a lower sodium option, use low-sodium marinara sauce and adjust salt accordingly.
  • Check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it is fully cooked.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the air fryer for best results.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan, Chicken Parmesan, Air Fryer Recipes, Easy Italian Dinner, Healthy Chicken Parmesan