Air fryer chicken Parmesan is a cozy, comforting meal everyone will love. The chicken is tender on the inside and crispy on the outside, topped with rich marinara sauce and melted cheese. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a simple family dinner, making it a go-to recipe in our house.

Why You Will Love This Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

This dish is not only delicious but also super easy to make. You can whip it up in under 30 minutes using everyday ingredients you probably have on hand. It’s also a big hit with kids and adults alike, which is always a win! Plus, cooking it in the air fryer gives you that crispy texture without the extra oil.

How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

Making chicken Parmesan in an air fryer is straightforward and beginner-friendly. You’ll start by seasoning the chicken and coating it in breadcrumbs. Then, it cooks quickly in the air fryer, making it a great option when you’re pressed for time.

What You Need

2 chicken breasts
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Step-by-Step

Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Dip each chicken breast into the egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
Place the coated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
Remove the chicken from the air fryer and top each breast with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
Return to the air fryer for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan!

How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of pasta, a simple salad, or steamed vegetables. It can also be enjoyed on its own or served in a sandwich for an easy lunch. Feel free to sprinkle some extra Parmesan on top for added flavor!

How to Store Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

To keep leftovers fresh, simply place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the cooked chicken once it’s cooled. To reheat, place it back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy again.

Recipe Tips

Make sure to season the chicken well for the best flavor.
Let the chicken sit for a few minutes after cooking for better texture.
Try to use fresh breadcrumbs for a crunchier coating.
For extra flavor, add garlic powder to the breadcrumb mix.
Keep an eye on the chicken towards the end to prevent burning.

Variations & Swaps

Swap out the chicken for eggplant for a vegetarian option.
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make it gluten-free.
Try different cheese, like provolone or gouda, for a unique twist.
Add sliced mushrooms or spinach into the marinara sauce for extra veggies.
Mix in some crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken, coat it in breadcrumbs, and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Can I freeze the cooked chicken Parmesan?
Absolutely! Once cooled, place the chicken in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating.

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 5-7 minutes. This will help it stay crispy rather than soggy.

What can I serve with chicken Parmesan?
This dish pairs well with spaghetti, a fresh salad, or garlic bread. It also makes for a great sandwich filling!

Any tips for avoiding soggy chicken?
Make sure to coat the chicken well with breadcrumbs and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. This ensures even cooking and keeps the coating crispy.