Parmesan-Crusted Chicken in the Air Fryer
Crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, this Parmesan-Crusted Chicken made in the air fryer is a game-changer for quick, flavorful weeknight dinners. The combination of grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs forms a golden, crunchy crust that adds a burst of savory flavor to every bite. Using the air fryer not only speeds up the cooking process but also reduces the need for excessive oil, making this dish a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. Perfectly seasoned and incredibly satisfying, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs
Cooking spray or a small amount of oil for greasing
Instructions:
Preheat the Air Fryer:
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 3 minutes.
Prepare the Breading Mixture:
In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Beat the Eggs:
In another bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.
Coat the Chicken:
Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated, then press into the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, covering both sides evenly. Press firmly to help the coating stick.
Arrange in the Air Fryer:
Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the coated chicken breasts in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap.
Air Fry:
Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Rest and Serve:
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or mashed potatoes.
Tips & Tricks:
For extra crispiness, spray the tops of the chicken lightly with cooking spray before air frying.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a subtle kick.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
If using thinner chicken cutlets, reduce the cooking time accordingly to prevent overcooking.
Nutrition Facts (per serving, approx. based on 4 servings):
Calories: 320
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 145mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 1g
Protein: 40g
Enjoy your crispy, flavorful Parmesan-Crusted Chicken fresh from the air fryer!