Introduction
Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan is a quick and delicious twist on the classic Italian dish. With crispy, breaded chicken cutlets topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese, this recipe is both healthier and easier to prepare than traditional frying. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table!
What is Chicken Parmesan?
Chicken Parmesan, or Chicken Parmigiana, is a popular Italian-American dish made with breaded chicken cutlets, marinara sauce, and melted cheese. Traditionally, it’s fried and then baked, but using an air fryer gives you a crispy texture with less oil, making it a healthier option.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan, gather the following ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-seasoned)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
For the Topping:
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- If the chicken breasts are thick, consider slicing them in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets for even cooking.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
Step 2: Bread the Chicken
- Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls:
- First bowl: Place the flour.
- Second bowl: Beat the egg.
- Third bowl: Mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip it into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the crumbs adhere.
Step 3: Air Fry the Chicken
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Place the breaded chicken cutlets in a single layer in the basket, making sure not to overcrowd.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the air fryer.
- Spoon marinara sauce over each piece of chicken and sprinkle with 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.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
- Serve the Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan with pasta, salad, or crusty bread.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Parmesan
- Use Thin Cutlets: Thinner chicken cutlets cook more evenly and quickly.
- Customize the Toppings: Feel free to add other toppings like sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the breaded chicken in advance and freeze it. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time when ready to air fry.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan is a quick, healthier version of a beloved classic. With its crispy chicken, flavorful marinara, and gooey cheese, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this delicious dish any night of the week!