This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with flavor. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a healthier alternative to fried chicken that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
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
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, even cooking. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Make the Coating
- In a shallow bowl, mix the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
- In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
- Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Press the chicken into the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it is fully coated on both sides. Shake off 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 basket in a single layer. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Air fry for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Serve
- Let the chicken rest for 2–3 minutes before serving. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables.
Pro Tips
- Extra Crispy Coating: For a crunchier texture, use panko breadcrumbs.
- Cheese Variations: Add grated Romano or Asiago cheese to the 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 regain crispiness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthier Alternative: Uses minimal oil but still delivers a crispy, satisfying crust.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Versatile: Perfect as a main dish, in salads, or as a sandwich filling.
Enjoy this Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken as a delicious and wholesome meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Let me know if you’d like more air fryer recipes or serving ideas! 🍗✨🧀
