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Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
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Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan is a quick, easy, and flavorful dish featuring juicy, tender chicken breasts coated in a crispy panko and parmesan crust, topped with tangy marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. Prepared in the air fryer with less oil than traditional frying, it offers a healthier yet indulgent twist that is perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Coating

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 large eggs
  • Olive oil spray

Toppings

  • 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Additional Parmesan cheese for sprinkling

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure even cooking and tenderness. Pat each piece dry with paper towels to help the coating stick better.
  2. Set Up Your Breading Station: In one bowl, whisk the eggs until combined. In another bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning for a flavorful crust.
  3. Bread the Chicken: Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture. Press the crumbs firmly onto the chicken to ensure an even, crispy coating.
  4. Air Fry to Perfection: Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (180°C). Lightly spray both sides of the breaded chicken with olive oil spray. Place the chicken in the air fryer basket without overcrowding and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F).
  5. Add Sauce and Cheese: Spoon a generous layer of marinara sauce on each chicken breast, then top with shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Return to the air fryer for an additional 3-4 minutes at 360°F until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Let the chicken rest for 1-2 minutes to lock in the juices before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Pound chicken evenly to prevent drying and ensure a crisp coating.
  • Pat chicken dry before breading for better adhesion and crunch.
  • Lightly spray chicken with olive oil to mimic frying without excess grease.
  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow even airflow and crispiness.
  • Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken reaches 165°F for safety and juiciness.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated up to 3 days; keep sauce separate to maintain crispness.
  • For reheating, air fry at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness and melt cheese.
  • Gluten-free option: use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour instead of panko.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken parmesan, air fryer chicken, quick chicken dinner, crispy chicken, easy chicken parmesan, gluten free chicken parmesan, cheesy chicken, Italian chicken dish

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