air fryer parmesan crusted chicken sizzles into golden perfection in minutes, weaving crispy panko and nutty Parmesan into every bite. Imagine slicing into juicy chicken breasts kissed by garlic-infused olive oil and a hint of tangy apple cider vinegar, revealing a tender, flavorful center. This playful recipe transforms weeknight dinner into a delightful adventure—no fuss, no greasy mess, just pure, crunchy bliss. Serve it alongside vibrant roasted veggies or pile it on a fresh garden salad for an instant crowd-pleaser. With minimal prep and maximum taste, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds around your table.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This air fryer parmesan crusted chicken
- It’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside—just like you love it!
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthier than traditional frying, with less oil but all the flavor.
- Versatile and pairs well with your favorite sides.
- Kid-approved and sure to become a family favorite!
air fryer parmesan crusted chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer – Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your chicken gets that perfect crispy crust.
- Step 2: Prepare the Egg Wash – In a shallow bowl, whisk together a couple of eggs until well combined. This will help the coating stick to the chicken.
- Step 3: Make the Coating – In another bowl, mix together grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This cheesy mixture is what makes the chicken so delicious!
- Step 4: Coat the Chicken – Take each chicken breast and dip it into the egg wash, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, press it into the cheese mixture to coat it thoroughly.
- Step 5: Air Fry the Chicken – Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the coated chicken breasts in a single layer in the basket. Cook for 10 minutes, then flip the chicken and cook for an additional 5–7 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Step 6: Let it Rest – Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy and flavorful.
- Step 7: Serve and Enjoy! – Garnish with fresh parsley and serve your air fryer parmesan crusted chicken. Enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite!
Notes
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Fat | 20g |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbs | 10g |
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious air fryer parmesan crusted chicken!
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts – the main protein
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – for a rich and cheesy flavor
- 1 cup breadcrumbs – to create a crispy texture
- 2 large eggs – for binding
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – adds savory depth
- 1 teaspoon paprika – for a touch of warmth
- ½ teaspoon salt – enhances overall flavor
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper – for a hint of spice
- cooking spray – to prevent sticking
- chopped fresh parsley (optional) – for garnish
How to Make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken
This delicious air fryer parmesan crusted chicken is a quick and easy meal that will impress your family and friends. With a preparation time of just 10 minutes and a cooking time of 15 minutes, you’ll have a crispy, golden chicken ready to serve in no time. Don’t forget to let it rest for 5 minutes before diving in!
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your chicken gets that perfect crispy crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Egg Wash
In a shallow bowl, whisk together a couple of eggs until well combined. This will help the coating stick to the chicken.
Step 3: Make the Coating
In another bowl, mix together grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This cheesy mixture is what makes the chicken so delicious!
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Take each chicken breast and dip it into the egg wash, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, press it into the cheese mixture to coat it thoroughly.
Step 5: Air Fry the Chicken
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the coated chicken breasts in a single layer in the basket. Cook for 10 minutes, then flip the chicken and cook for an additional 5–7 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Let it Rest
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy and flavorful.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve your air fryer parmesan crusted chicken. Enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Main Course |
| Cuisine | American |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Extra Time | 5 minutes (resting) |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
| Dietary | High Protein |
| Serves | 4 |
| Best Served | Hot and crispy with a garnish of parsley! |
Pro Tips for Making air fryer parmesan crusted chicken
- Pat the chicken dry for a crispier crust.
- Mix breadcrumbs with Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
- Preheat your air fryer for even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if needed.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve this air fryer parmesan crusted chicken
- Serve with a side of garlic mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
- Pair with a fresh garden salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette.
- Enjoy with steamed broccoli or green beans for a healthy touch.
- Top with a dollop of marinara sauce for an Italian twist.
- Wrap in a tortilla with lettuce and tomatoes for a tasty chicken wrap.
- Serve alongside quinoa or couscous for a nutritious grain option.
Make Ahead and Storage
You can easily prepare and store your air fryer parmesan crusted chicken:
Storing Leftovers
- Allow chicken to cool completely.
- Place in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- Wrap chicken tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Reheat chicken for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
- Check for crispiness; add more time if needed.
Explore more easy breakfast recipes, quick lunch ideas, cozy dinner meals, and delightful dessert.
FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. How do I cook chicken parmesan in the air fryer?
To cook chicken parmesan in the air fryer, start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Then, dip them in a mixture of beaten eggs and coat them with a blend of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and place the coated chicken in the basket. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Serve with marinara sauce and extra cheese on top for a delicious meal!
2. Why isn’t my chicken getting crispy in the air fryer?
If your chicken isn’t getting crispy in the air fryer, it could be due to a few reasons. Make sure you’re not overcrowding the basket, as this can trap steam and prevent crispiness. Additionally, ensure that your chicken is well-coated with oil or cooking spray, as this helps achieve that golden, crispy texture. Lastly, check that your air fryer is preheated properly before adding the chicken to ensure even cooking and browning.
3. What is the secret to crispy chicken parmesan?
The secret to crispy chicken parmesan lies in the coating. Use a combination of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese for a flavorful and crunchy crust. Additionally, make sure to spray the coated chicken with a little cooking oil before air frying, as this helps the coating crisp up beautifully. Cooking at the right temperature and not overcrowding the air fryer will also contribute to that perfect crunch!
4. How long to cook chicken crust in an air fryer?
Cooking chicken crust in an air fryer typically takes about 10-12 minutes at 400°F (200°C). However, cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts. It’s always a good idea to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure the chicken is fully cooked. If needed, you can add a few extra minutes to achieve that perfect golden crust!
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve mastered the art of making air fryer parmesan crusted chicken, get ready to impress your family and friends! This dish is not only simple but also incredibly rewarding. Enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite, and don’t forget to share your delicious creation. Happy cooking!