Description
This Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan recipe offers a healthier twist on the classic Italian dish by using an air fryer to achieve a crispy and cheesy meal in just 30 minutes. Tender chicken breasts are coated with Parmesan and panko breadcrumbs, air-fried until golden, then topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. Garnished with fresh basil, this dish is perfect for a quick and delicious dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Coating
- 1.5 lb Chicken Breast, boneless skinless
- 1 Cup Panko Breadcrumbs
- ¼ Cup Shredded Parmesan Cheese
- 2 Eggs, beaten
Toppings and Garnish
- ½ Cup Marinara Sauce
- ½ Cup Mozzarella Cheese, shredded
- A handful of fresh basil leaves, to garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts in half and place each piece between two sheets of plastic wrap. Gently pound them using the flat side of a meat mallet or rolling pin until thin and even.
- Coat Chicken: On a plate, combine panko breadcrumbs and shredded Parmesan cheese. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until frothy. Dip each chicken piece first into the egg and then coat evenly with the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture.
- Air Fry Chicken: Line the air fryer basket with aluminum foil and preheat the air fryer to 360 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the coated chicken pieces in the basket without overcrowding. Cook for 6 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Spoon marinara sauce over each piece of chicken, then sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top. Continue air frying for an additional 4 minutes or until the cheese melts and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Serve and Garnish: Remove the chicken from the air fryer and place on a serving dish. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve warm.
Notes
- For an extra crispy coating, lightly spray the breaded chicken with cooking spray before air frying.
- If using the oven method, make sure to flip the chicken halfway through baking for even browning.
- You can substitute mozzarella with provolone or fontina cheese for a different flavor.
- The chicken can be pounded thinner for faster cooking and a crispier texture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the air fryer to maintain crispiness.
