Why make this recipe
Air fryer chicken parmesan is a fantastic way to enjoy this classic dish without all the extra oil. It offers crispy breading, juicy chicken, and a rich tomato sauce, all topped with gooey cheese. Cooking it in an air fryer makes it healthier and quicker, which is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a tasty meal without too much fuss.
How to make Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil (optional, for serving)
Directions:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each chicken breast into the beaten egg, making sure to coat it well.
- Next, roll the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture until fully covered.
- Place the breaded chicken in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching.
- Cook for about 10 minutes, then flip the chicken pieces over.
- After flipping, cook for another 5 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, spoon marinara sauce over each chicken breast and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the air fryer and let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving.
How to serve Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
Serve your air fryer chicken parmesan hot. It goes great with spaghetti, a side salad, or some garlic bread. You can also top it with fresh basil for an extra flavor boost.
How to store Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
If you have leftovers, let the chicken cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. Just ensure you wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
Tips to make Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
- For extra crispiness, you can spray the chicken lightly with cooking spray before air frying.
- Try using fresh herbs in the breadcrumb mixture for added flavor.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can skip the cheese or use a lower-fat option.
Variation
You can customize the chicken parmesan by adding different toppings. For example, try using pesto instead of marinara or adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well too. Just adjust the cooking time if they are thicker.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can make this dish in the oven! Bake the breaded chicken at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, then add the marinara and cheese and bake until melted.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure that your marinara sauce is also gluten-free.
Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each chicken breast into the beaten egg, making sure to coat it well.
- Roll the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture until fully covered.
- Place the breaded chicken in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching.
- Cook for about 10 minutes, then flip the chicken pieces over.
- After flipping, cook for another 5 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, spoon marinara sauce over each chicken breast and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the air fryer and let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving.
Notes
Name: Yumi Hwag
Byline: Founder & Recipe Developer, Yumimeals
Bio : Yumi tests weeknight-friendly air fryer, slow cooker, and BBQ recipes in a small home kitchen. She focuses on simple steps, real-family testing, and clear food-safety guidance. Contact: [email protected]