Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
If you’re craving a crispy, golden chicken dinner that’s ready in under 25 minutes, this Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe is about to be your weeknight hero. Juicy chicken cutlets are coated in a savory mix of Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and spices, then air fried to absolute perfection. The result is all of the crunch and rich flavor you love from classic fried chicken, but with way less oil and a whole lot less fuss. This recipe has quickly become a family favorite in my kitchen, and I can’t wait to share all my tips and tricks for making it your new go-to as well!
Ingredients You’ll Need
All you need are a few simple pantry staples and fresh chicken to create this crave-worthy dish. Every ingredient plays a role, whether it’s adding crunch, flavor, or that irresistible golden color!
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts make for juicy cutlets that cook quickly and evenly.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds salty, nutty flavor and helps create the ultimate crispy crust.
- Breadcrumbs: Use regular or panko for a crunchy texture—panko gives extra crispiness!
- Garlic Powder: Just a teaspoon brings a subtle, savory depth that makes each bite pop.
- Italian Seasoning: This blend of herbs infuses classic Italian flavor and aroma into the coating.
- Paprika: Adds a gentle warmth and beautiful color to the chicken’s exterior.
- Salt: A touch of salt ties all the flavors together and enhances the Parmesan.
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper gives a little kick without overpowering the dish.
- Egg: The egg wash helps the cheesy breadcrumb coating stick to each cutlet.
- Olive Oil Spray: A light spritz ensures your chicken turns out golden and crisp without being greasy.
How to Make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Cutlets
Start by slicing each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create four thinner cutlets. This not only helps the chicken cook faster and more evenly, but also gives you more of that crispy, cheesy coating on every piece. If your cutlets aren’t quite even, feel free to gently pound them to a uniform thickness for best results.
Step 2: Set Up Your Dredging Station
In one shallow bowl, beat the egg until it’s fully mixed. In a separate bowl, combine the grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. This is where all the flavor and crunch magic happens! Lining up your bowls assembly-line style makes the coating process quick and tidy.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken cutlet first into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated, then press it into the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated on all sides, gently pressing so the crust sticks. This step is key to getting that signature crispy exterior that makes this Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe so irresistible.
Step 4: Preheat and Prep the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for about three minutes. While it heats up, lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking. A little oil spray also helps achieve that deep golden color and satisfying crunch without drenching your dinner in oil.
Step 5: Air Fry to Crispy Perfection
Arrange the coated chicken cutlets in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap. Give the tops a quick mist of olive oil spray, then air fry for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The chicken is done when it’s golden, crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. You’ll be amazed by how juicy and flavorful each cutlet turns out, with a crust that rivals any fried chicken!
How to Serve Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A bright squeeze of fresh lemon over the hot chicken really wakes up all the flavors and gives a fresh, zesty finish. You can also top with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or extra Parmesan for a touch of elegance and extra flavor.
Side Dishes
This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe pairs beautifully with just about anything. I love serving it alongside a crisp green salad, buttery garlic mashed potatoes, or roasted veggies. For a classic Italian twist, try it with your favorite pasta or a simple tomato basil salad.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn these chicken cutlets into a show-stopping sandwich by tucking them into toasted buns with lettuce, tomato, and a swipe of garlic aioli. Or, slice the chicken and serve it over a bed of arugula with shaved Parmesan and balsamic glaze for a restaurant-worthy salad.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover chicken, let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days. The crust stays surprisingly crisp, making leftovers just as tempting as the original!
Freezing
To freeze, wrap the cooled chicken cutlets tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to two months. For best results, freeze the cutlets in a single layer so they don’t stick together.
Reheating
For the crispiest results, reheat the chicken in the air fryer at 350°F for about 4 to 5 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use the oven, but the air fryer really brings the crunch back to life!
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work just as well and stay super juicy. Just adjust the cooking time as needed since thighs can be a bit thicker.
Is it possible to make this Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe gluten free?
Yes, simply swap the regular breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free variety or try crushed gluten-free crackers for a fun twist. The results are just as crunchy and delicious!
Why isn’t my crust sticking to the chicken?
Make sure to pat your chicken dry before dredging, and press the coating firmly onto each cutlet. The egg wash is key for helping everything adhere, and a gentle press ensures the crust stays put during air frying.
Can I double this Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe?
You sure can! Just cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. This ensures every piece turns out crispy and golden, not soggy.
What dipping sauces go best with this dish?
There’s no wrong answer here! Marinara, ranch, honey mustard, or even a spicy aioli all complement the savory Parmesan crust. Set out a few options and let everyone pick their favorite.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a new staple dinner that delivers on both flavor and ease, the Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe is truly a must-try. It’s so simple, so crispy, and so full of flavor that you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again. Give it a go and watch it become an instant favorite at your table!
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Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe delivers crispy, golden chicken breasts coated in a flavorful mix of Parmesan cheese and herbs. Quick to prepare and cook, it’s a perfect weeknight meal that’s both high-protein and deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon olive oil spray
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create 4 thinner cutlets, ensuring even cooking and allowing the coating to adhere better.
- Set up coating stations: In a shallow bowl, beat the egg thoroughly. In a separate bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper to form the crust mixture.
- Coat the chicken: Dip each chicken cutlet into the beaten egg, then press firmly into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture until fully coated on all sides for maximum crispiness.
- Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F and preheat for 3 minutes to ensure a hot cooking environment for crispy results.
- Prepare the air fryer basket: Lightly spray the basket with olive oil to prevent sticking and promote browning of the crust.
- Cook the chicken: Place the coated chicken cutlets in a single layer in the basket. Spray the tops lightly with olive oil. Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden, crispy, and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the air fryer and serve hot with a squeeze of lemon or your favorite dipping sauce for added zest and flavor.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, opt for panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the coating mixture to introduce a subtle heat.
- Ensure chicken cutlets are of uniform thickness to cook evenly.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to accurately check that chicken reaches the safe internal temperature.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cutlet
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 460 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
