Follow these steps to make crispy, flavorful Chicken Parmesan using your air fryer. This method avoids deep frying while delivering a satisfying crunch.
Author:Ahazzam
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:20 min
Total Time:35 min
Yield:4 servings
Category:Dinner
Method:Air Frying
Cuisine:Italian
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to 1/2 inch thickness
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup marinara sauce
4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
Cooking spray (oil-based)
Instructions
Set up a standard breading station with three shallow dishes. Place flour in the first dish. Whisk eggs in the second dish. In the third dish, combine Panko breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Dredge each pounded chicken cutlet first in the flour, shaking off excess. Dip it into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off. Finally, press the cutlet firmly into the Panko mixture to coat both sides completely.
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
Place the breaded chicken cutlets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd; work in batches if necessary. Lightly spray the tops of the chicken with cooking spray.
Air fry for 10 minutes. Flip the cutlets carefully. Spray the second side lightly with cooking spray.
Continue to air fry for another 5 to 7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden brown and crisp.
Remove the chicken from the air fryer. Top each cutlet with marinara sauce, a slice of mozzarella cheese, and the remaining 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
Return the topped chicken to the air fryer basket. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve immediately over pasta or with a side salad.
Notes
Pounding the chicken ensures even cooking and a better final texture.
For extra crispiness, you can lightly spray the breaded cutlets with oil just before the first cooking stage.
If your air fryer runs hot, start checking the chicken at the 8-minute mark during the first cook time.