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If you’re craving classic Chicken Parmesan but want to keep it on the healthier side, this Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan is the answer. It delivers all the flavors you love with less oil and reduced mess. Perfect for a quick but satisfying dinner.
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- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No need for deep-frying, resulting in a lighter meal without sacrificing flavor.
- The air fryer makes cleanup a breeze compared to traditional frying.
- Quick cook time makes it perfect for weeknights.
- You still get the crispiness and cheese melt that makes Chicken Parmesan irresistible.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts (8 ounces each): Boneless and skinless, for lean protein. Slice in half for even cooking.
- ¼ cup shredded Parmesan (not grated Parmesan): Adds nutty flavor to the breading. Substitute with pecorino romano if needed.
- 1 cup Italian style bread crumbs: Provides a seasoned, crispy coating. Panko breadcrumbs can be used for extra crunch.
- 2 eggs (whisked): Helps the breading adhere to the chicken. No substitute needed.
- ½ cup marinara sauce: Provides a classic, tangy topping. Use your favorite brand or homemade.
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully over the sauce, giving that essential cheesy finish. Provolone can work if you’re out of mozzarella.
How to Make It
Step 1: Prepare the Air Fryer
Set the temperature on your air fryer to 360°F and preheat for 3 minutes. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly right from the start, avoiding any steam buildup that can make the coating soggy.
Step 2: Slice and Pound the Chicken
Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner pieces. Pound them to a uniform thickness to ensure even cooking, preventing any chances of undercooked centers.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Combine the breadcrumbs and shredded Parmesan in a medium bowl. Whisk the eggs in a separate bowl. Dip each chicken piece into the egg, then thoroughly coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Ensure every inch is covered for that coveted crispy texture.
Step 4: Cook in the Air Fryer
Place the breaded chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding by cooking in batches if necessary. Air fry for 6 minutes, then flip the chicken, topping with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. Continue air frying for another 3-4 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 5: Keep Warm and Serve
Once cooked, set the chicken aside and keep warm while repeating the process with any remaining pieces. Serve this nutritious take on a classic with a side of your choice.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
It’s best to use fresh or fully thawed chicken breasts for this recipe to ensure even cooking and proper breading adhesion. If using frozen, thaw completely before proceeding.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can bake the breaded chicken in a conventional oven at 400°F for about 20 minutes. Add the sauce and cheese in the last 5-7 minutes of baking.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of the regular ones. Ensure your Parmesan is labeled gluten-free as well.
