Description
This Easy Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan recipe offers a healthier, crispy twist on the classic Italian-American dish. Using an air fryer, the chicken cutlets are breaded and cooked to golden perfection with less oil, then topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella for a deliciously cheesy finish. Perfect for a quick and satisfying main course.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Preparation
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved lengthwise to make 4 cutlets
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Breading Station
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 3/4 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Additional Ingredients
- Olive oil spray
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pound the chicken cutlets to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Set Up Breading Station: Arrange three shallow bowls—one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs, and the last with a mixture of seasoned breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Bread the Cutlets: Dredge each chicken cutlet first in flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the crumbs firmly to ensure they adhere well.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Heat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for optimal cooking temperature and crispiness.
- Cook the Chicken: Spray both sides of the breaded chicken cutlets lightly with olive oil spray. Place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Spoon marinara sauce evenly over each cooked cutlet, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Final Air Fry: Return the cutlets to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving to add a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Notes
- For a crispier texture, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- You can substitute mozzarella with provolone or a dairy-free cheese to suit dietary preferences.
