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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

A close-up of crispy Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan topped with melted mozzarella and marinara sauce, garnished with parsley.

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Make classic Chicken Parmesan crispy and quick using your air fryer. This recipe cooks breaded chicken cutlets without deep frying, topping them with sauce and melted cheese.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each), pounded to 1/2 inch thickness
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 1/2 cups Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for breading)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil spray
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Set up your breading station: Place flour in one shallow dish. Whisk eggs in a second dish. Combine Panko breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper in a third dish.
  2. Dredge each chicken cutlet first in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off. Press firmly into the Panko mixture to coat both sides completely.
  3. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray.
  4. Place the breaded cutlets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd; work in batches if necessary. Spray the tops of the chicken lightly with olive oil spray.
  5. Air fry for 10 minutes. Flip the cutlets and spray the second side lightly with oil. Continue cooking for another 5 to 7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden brown and crispy.
  6. Remove the chicken from the air fryer. Top each cutlet with 1/4 cup of marinara sauce and a layer of mozzarella cheese.
  7. Return the cutlets to the air fryer basket. Air fry at 380°F (195°C) for 2 to 3 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, let the breaded chicken rest in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before air frying.
  • Use high-quality Panko breadcrumbs for the best texture.
  • If your air fryer runs hot, check the chicken at the 8-minute mark during the first cooking phase.

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