Go Back
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness) - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1 cup marinara sauce - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional) When I make air fryer chicken Parmesan, I focus on fresh, quality ingredients. The chicken needs to be boneless and skinless for easy cooking. I love panko breadcrumbs because they give a nice crunch. Using grated Parmesan cheese adds a rich flavor that pairs well with the chicken. Next, I mix garlic powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper into the breadcrumbs. This blend gives the chicken a nice, savory taste. Even a small dash of these spices can make a big difference. For toppings, marinara sauce is key. It adds moisture and flavor to each bite. I also sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top. It melts beautifully and creates that classic cheesy layer. Lastly, I like to add fresh basil leaves for a bright finish. They add color and a burst of flavor. Each ingredient plays a role in making this dish a hit. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for getting that crispy texture. The hot air will cook the chicken evenly and give it a nice golden color. Next, let's mix the breadcrumb mixture. In a shallow bowl, combine: - 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness) - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Mix these well to combine all the flavors. In another bowl, beat 1 large egg. This will help the breadcrumbs stick. Dip each chicken breast into the egg, making sure to coat it fully. Then, transfer it to the breadcrumb mixture. Press down firmly to coat both sides evenly. This step is crucial for that crunchy crust you want. Now, it’s time to air fry the chicken. Place the coated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to cook in batches if your fryer is small. Air fry the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, carefully flip the chicken breasts over. Air fry for another 5 minutes. Check that they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer. Spoon marinara sauce over each piece. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Return the chicken to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. This step melts the cheese and makes it bubbly. Carefully remove the chicken and let it rest for a couple of minutes. If you like, garnish with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy your crispy, delicious Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan! To get that crispy coating, I recommend using panko breadcrumbs. They are light and airy, giving a great crunch. You can also mix in some grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. When coating the chicken, dip it in the beaten egg first. Make sure it’s fully covered. This step helps the breadcrumbs stick better. Then, place the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture. Press down firmly on both sides. This ensures that every bit gets coated well. The air fryer has limited space. If you have two chicken breasts, cook them in a single layer. If they don’t fit, cook in batches. This way, each piece gets even heat and crispiness. Make sure to leave some space between the chicken pieces. This helps air circulate and cook the chicken evenly. To know if your chicken is done, check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. This ensures the chicken is safe to eat and perfectly cooked. With these tips, your Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan will be a hit! Enjoy the crispy delight. Pro Tips Choose the Right Breadcrumbs: Using panko breadcrumbs will give your chicken a much crispier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs. Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Make sure to leave enough space between the chicken breasts in the air fryer for even cooking and maximum crispiness. Check for Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption. Let it Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a couple of minutes after cooking; this helps the juices redistribute, making it more tender and flavorful. {{image_2}} You can switch up the chicken breasts for other cuts. Chicken thighs or tenders work great! They add more flavor and stay juicy. Just follow the same steps for coating and cooking. The cooking time may change slightly. Always check they reach 165°F inside. Want a meat-free meal? Try eggplant or zucchini! Cut them into thick slices. Then, coat them just like the chicken. Eggplant gives a nice texture, while zucchini adds a fresh taste. Air fry them until golden brown, about 10 to 15 minutes. Top with marinara and cheese for a tasty dish. Want to spice things up? Add extra flavors to your coating! Mix in some paprika or Italian seasoning. You can also try garlic salt for a bolder taste. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can bring brightness. Experiment until you find your favorite mix! To keep your Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan fresh, store it in the fridge. Place leftovers in an airtight container. This will keep moisture in and prevent the chicken from drying out. You can store it for up to three days. Always allow the chicken to cool before sealing it. The best way to reheat your chicken is in the air fryer. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook for about five minutes. This method keeps the chicken crispy while warming it through. You can also use a microwave, but it may make the coating less crispy. If you want to freeze your chicken, let it cool completely first. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This will help prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to three months. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight before reheating. Cooking chicken breasts in an air fryer usually takes about 15 minutes. First, air fry for 10 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Then, flip the chicken and cook for another 5 minutes. Always check that the inside reaches 165°F to ensure it’s safe to eat. Yes, you can make Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan without breadcrumbs. For gluten-free options, try crushed nuts, like almonds or walnuts. You can also use ground oats or cornmeal for a different texture. These alternatives still give great flavor and crunch. You have many choices for sides! A fresh salad pairs well with the chicken. Garlic bread adds a nice touch, too. You might also enjoy pasta with marinara sauce. Roasted veggies or steamed broccoli are healthy options that balance the dish. This blog post covered how to make Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan. We discussed the key ingredients, like chicken breasts, breadcrumbs, and marinara sauce. You learned the steps to prepare and cook the dish, ensuring a crispy coating. We also explored tips for storage and variations, so you can make it your own. Trying this recipe can bring fun and flavor to your meals. Enjoy crafting your version of this tasty dish!

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

A delicious and crispy chicken parmesan made in the air fryer, topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 2
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • pieces Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  • In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
  • In another bowl, beat the egg.
  • Dip each chicken breast into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated, then transfer it to the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down firmly to coat both sides evenly.
  • Once coated, place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer (you may need to cook in batches).
  • Air fry the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes.
  • After 10 minutes, carefully flip the chicken breasts over and air fry for an additional 5 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
  • Remove the chicken from the air fryer and spoon marinara sauce over each piece, followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese.
  • Return the chicken to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Carefully remove the chicken and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Notes

Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
Keyword air fryer, chicken, crispy, parmesan