Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

Why Make This Recipe

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan is for those days when you crave something delicious but don’t want to feel guilty about it. You get the classic flavors of Chicken Parmesan with a crispy twist—all while cutting back on oil and fat. Plus, who doesn’t love the satisfaction of making an Italian favorite at home? 🙌

The air fryer gives you that perfect crunch without deep-frying. You can whip this up quickly, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner or when friends drop by unexpectedly. Trust me, your taste buds will be doing a happy dance! 💃

How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to prepare this dish. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a meal that tastes like it came straight from a fancy restaurant. Best of all, it’s all done in your air fryer!

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Olive oil spray

Directions:

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. Coat each chicken breast with olive oil spray, then dredge in the breadcrumb mixture until well coated.
  4. Place the coated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  5. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.
  6. Spoon marinara sauce over each breast and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
  7. Air fry for an additional 3-5 minutes or until cheese is melted.
  8. Serve hot and enjoy your guilt-free Chicken Parmesan! 🍽️

How to Serve Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

Serving suggestion? Here’s a nugget of wisdom: Pair this dish with a light side salad or some al dente pasta to soak up all that delicious marinara sauce. Want to impress? Add a sprinkle of fresh basil on top for that gourmet touch. Just don’t forget the garlic bread—it’s practically a rule!

How to Store Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

If you have leftovers (which is rare, let’s be honest), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep well for about 3-4 days, so you can snack on them during the week—because who wouldn’t want to revisit this crispy delight? 💚

For longer storage, try freezing the chicken before adding the sauce and cheese. Just thaw and bake later for a quick meal!

Tips to Make Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

  • Don’t skip the olive oil spray. It’s what helps achieve that amazing crispiness!
  • If you want extra crunch, consider double-dipping the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture.
  • Use fresh ingredients whenever possible; it makes a difference in flavor.
  • Experiment with different seasonings! A little kick of red pepper flakes can take it to another level.

Variation

Feeling adventurous? Try swapping the breadcrumbs for panko for an even fluffier texture! You can also experiment with different cheeses—provolone or fontina can bring a whole new taste to the table. 🍕

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Thighs can be juicier and quite tasty in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust cooking time as needed!

2. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
Sure thing! No judgment here—use what makes your life easier. Just remember to heat it up a little before spooning it over the chicken.

3. Can I cook this in the oven instead?
Yes, you can! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. But honestly, where’s the fun in that? Try to keep the air fryer party alive! 🎉

Now that you know how to make this crispy delight, what are you waiting for? Get in that kitchen and air fry your way to dinner heaven!

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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

A guilt-free twist on a classic dish, this Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan features tender chicken with a crunchy breadcrumb coating, topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese for an Italian favorite that’s easy to make at home.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients

  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • as needed Olive oil spray Essential for achieving crispiness

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  • In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  • Coat each chicken breast with olive oil spray, then dredge in the breadcrumb mixture until well coated.

Cooking

  • Place the coated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  • Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.
  • Spoon marinara sauce over each breast and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
  • Air fry for an additional 3-5 minutes or until cheese is melted.

Serving

  • Serve hot and enjoy your guilt-free Chicken Parmesan.

Notes

Pair this dish with a light side salad or some al dente pasta. Add a sprinkle of fresh basil on top for a gourmet touch, and don't forget the garlic bread!
Keyword Air Fryer, Chicken Parmesan, Crispy Chicken, Healthy Dinner, Quick Recipe

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