This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is the perfect combination of crispy exterior and juicy interior, bursting with flavor. With minimal ingredients and prep time, it offers a healthier alternative to fried chicken. Whether for a quick weeknight meal or a simple dinner, this recipe is both easy and satisfying.
Ingredients
(Serves 4)
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup (60g) breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking spray (for greasing the air fryer)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- If the chicken breasts are thick, pound them to an even thickness of about ½ inch for quicker and more even cooking.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure the coating sticks better.
Step 2: Make the Coating
- In a shallow bowl, mix the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper.
- In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
- Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Then press the chicken into the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, ensuring both sides are fully coated. Shake off any excess crumbs.
Step 4: Cook in the Air Fryer
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the coated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. If necessary, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Air fry for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Serve
- Let the chicken rest for 2–3 minutes before serving.
- Pair it with your favorite dipping sauce, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Pro Tips
- Extra Crispy Coating: Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy texture.
- Cheese Variations: Try adding grated Romano or Asiago cheese to the breadcrumb coating for a different flavor profile.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to maintain crispiness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthier Alternative: This method uses minimal oil, yet the chicken still comes out crispy and satisfying, making it a lighter version of fried chicken.
- Quick and Easy: The recipe is ready in under 30 minutes and requires only a few simple ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: Serve it as the main dish, toss it in a salad, or use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.
Enjoy this Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken—a crispy, flavorful meal that’s both easy and wholesome! Let me know if you’d like more air fryer recipes or serving ideas!