If you’re looking for a dish that’s crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with flavor, look no further than Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with a savory Parmesan coating, creating a delicious meal that’s quick and easy to prepare. The air fryer ensures the chicken is perfectly cooked, with a golden crust that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- Olive oil spray
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Start by preparing the chicken breasts. If they are thick, you can slice them in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets. This will help them cook more evenly and faster in the air fryer.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure the coating sticks well.
2. Set Up the Breading Station:
- In a shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
- Place the flour in a separate shallow dish.
- In another dish, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash.
3. Coat the Chicken:
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, making sure it’s fully coated, then shake off any excess.
- Dip the floured chicken into the egg wash, ensuring it’s completely covered.
- Finally, press the chicken into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, coating it evenly on all sides. Gently press the coating onto the chicken to ensure it adheres well.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating the air fryer ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and develops a crispy crust.
5. Air Fry the Chicken:
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated chicken breasts in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they do not overlap. If needed, cook the chicken in batches.
- Lightly spray the tops of the chicken with olive oil spray to help the coating crisp up.
- Air fry the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve:
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired, and serve with your favorite sides.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Use Thin Chicken Cutlets: Thinner chicken cutlets cook more quickly and evenly in the air fryer. If your chicken breasts are thick, slice them in half or pound them to an even thickness.
- Don’t Skip the Preheat: Preheating the air fryer helps to achieve a crispier crust by starting the cooking process immediately.
- Cook in Batches if Necessary: To avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, cook the chicken in batches if needed. Overcrowding can prevent the chicken from cooking evenly and getting crispy.
- Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning in the breadcrumb mixture to suit your taste. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or Italian seasoning for an herby flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthier Option: Air frying uses less oil than traditional frying methods, resulting in a healthier yet still delicious meal.
- Versatile: Serve this Parmesan crusted chicken with pasta, salad, or vegetables for a complete meal that the whole family will love.
Serving Suggestions
- With Pasta: Pair the chicken with a side of spaghetti tossed in marinara sauce for a classic Italian-inspired meal.
- On a Salad: Slice the chicken and serve it atop a bed of mixed greens with your favorite dressing.
- In a Sandwich: Place the chicken in a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and mayo for a delicious sandwich.
Variations to Try
- Lemon Herb Chicken: Add some lemon zest to the breadcrumb mixture for a fresh, zesty flavor.
- Spicy Chicken: Mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning blend for a bit of heat.
This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a delicious, crispy, and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a new favorite in your household. With its golden crust and juicy interior, it’s perfect for any occasion, from a quick weeknight dinner to a special weekend meal. Enjoy!