Name: Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs; to taste Salt and pepper; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

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Air fryer chicken Parmesan is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish. It’s crispy on the outside and tender inside, making it a hit for busy weeknight dinners. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, your family will love how easy it is to enjoy this comforting meal. Serve it alongside pasta, salad, or some warm bread for a cozy dinner.

Why You Will Love This Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

This recipe is a fantastic choice for many reasons. First, it’s quick to prepare, which is perfect for busy nights. You’ll have a delicious meal on the table in about 30 minutes. The flavors are rich and comforting, thanks to the cheese and marinara sauce. Plus, it’s a family-friendly meal that even kids will enjoy, making dinner time a breeze.

How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

Making this dish is straightforward, even for beginners. You start by preparing a tasty breadcrumb mixture for the chicken. Then, the air fryer cooks it to crispy perfection without all the oil. Finally, you melt cheese on top for a final touch. The whole process is quick, delicious, and family-approved.

What You Need

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray

Step-by-Step

Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
Coat each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture until well covered.
Spray the chicken with cooking spray.
Place the chicken in the air fryer basket and cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
Once cooked, top each piece with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

This chicken dish pairs wonderfully with spaghetti or a simple side salad. You can also enjoy it with garlic bread or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It’s perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or even a cozy date night at home.

How to Store Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze portions, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When reheating, you can use the air fryer again for a few minutes until heated through, keeping that crispy texture.

Recipe Tips

Make sure to fully coat the chicken for that crunchy crust.
Flip the chicken halfway to ensure even cooking.
If you prefer a lighter version, use less cheese.
You can swap the chicken for turkey or eggplant for different flavors.
Always check the chicken’s internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C).

Variations & Swaps

Swap the marinara for pesto or a creamy Alfredo sauce for a different taste.
Use zucchini slices as a low-carb alternative to chicken.
For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the breadcrumbs mixture and coat the chicken in advance. Just keep everything in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. This can save you time on busy evenings.

Can I freeze the cooked chicken parmesan?
Absolutely! After cooking, let the chicken cool completely. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
To reheat, place the chicken back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes, or until heated through. This will help maintain its crispiness.

Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Yes! You can use turkey breasts or even fish fillets. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the protein.

What are common mistakes to avoid when making this dish?
One common mistake is overcrowding the air fryer basket. Make sure to leave space between the chicken pieces for even cooking. Also, be cautious not to skip the cooking spray, as it helps achieve that lovely crispy texture.