Enjoy crispy Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan without the deep-fry mess. This recipe captures the classic Italian flavor with a perfect crunch, just like we remember from our travels.
Author:Eleanor Langley
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:18 minutes
Total Time:33 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Main Course
Method:Air Fryer
Cuisine:Italian-American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
4 Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup All-purpose flour
2 Large eggs, lightly beaten
1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese (for breading)
1 teaspoon Dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon Garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
Cooking spray (olive oil recommended)
1 cup Marinara sauce
1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C). You want it hot to get that crisp exterior.
Pound the chicken breasts to an even ¼-inch thickness. This helps them cook quickly and evenly.
Set up your breading station: one shallow dish with flour, one with beaten eggs, and a third dish with Panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper mixed well.
Dredge each chicken piece first in the flour, shaking off any excess.
Dip the floured chicken completely into the egg mixture. Let the extra egg drip off.
Press the chicken firmly into the Panko mixture, coating both sides well. This step builds your crunch layer.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the breaded chicken in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the basket; work in batches if needed.
Spray the tops of the chicken generously with cooking spray.
Air fry for 10 minutes. Flip the chicken carefully. Spray the second side.
Continue air frying for another 5-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden brown and crisp.
Remove the chicken. Spoon a layer of marinara sauce over the top of each piece.
Top generously with mozzarella cheese.
Return the chicken to the air fryer for 2-3 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy this taste of Italy, Eleanor and Richard style!
Notes
Pounding the chicken to an even thickness is key for uniform cooking.
Use Panko breadcrumbs for the best airy crunch.
Do not skip spraying the chicken with oil before air frying; this mimics the effect of frying.
If your air fryer runs hot, check the chicken starting at the 8-minute mark during the first cook time.