Air Fryer Parmesan-Crusted Chicken is a crispy, flavorful, and healthier version of classic breaded chicken. Coated with a mixture of Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and a few seasonings, the chicken is air-fried to perfection, resulting in a golden, crispy exterior and juicy, tender meat inside. This recipe is quick to prepare, requires less oil than traditional frying, and is perfect for a weeknight dinner or even meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Air Fryer Parmesan-Crusted Chicken is a simple, delicious, and healthier alternative to fried chicken. The air fryer makes it easy to achieve that perfect crispy crust with just a small amount of oil, making it a great option for anyone looking to cut down on fat without sacrificing flavor or texture. The Parmesan cheese adds a savory richness, while the seasoning enhances the natural flavor of the chicken. Plus, it’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for busy nights!

Air Fryer Parmesan-Crusted Chicken

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or dried oregano)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 large egg, beaten
Olive oil spray (for air frying)

Directions

Prepare the chicken:

Season the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Prepare the crust mixture:

Make the coating: In a shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and Italian seasoning. Mix well until evenly distributed.
Dredge the chicken: Dip each chicken breast into the beaten egg, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, coat the chicken in the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick to the surface. Repeat this process for all the chicken breasts.

Air fry the chicken:

Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
Spray with oil: Lightly spray both sides of the breaded chicken with olive oil spray. This will help achieve a golden, crispy texture in the air fryer.
Air fry: Place the breaded chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Air fry the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the crust is golden and crispy.

Serve:

Garnish and enjoy: Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Serving options: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10-12 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Add herbs: For extra flavor, mix fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil into the breadcrumb mixture.
Cheesy crust: Add extra Parmesan or shredded mozzarella cheese to the breadcrumb mixture for an even cheesier crust.
Spicy chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumbs for a spicy kick.
Gluten-Free: Swap the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour for a gluten-free version of this recipe.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover Parmesan-crusted chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2-3 months. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. You can also reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs work well in this recipe and are a bit juicier than breasts. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as they may take a little longer depending on their size.

2. Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but panko breadcrumbs create a lighter, crunchier texture. Regular breadcrumbs will work, but the texture will be a bit denser.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use any type of cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella or Gruyère. However, Parmesan cheese provides a specific savory flavor that pairs well with the crispy coating.

4. Can I make this recipe in the oven?

Yes! If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden and crispy.

5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the breaded chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 1 day before cooking. Just make sure to let the chicken come to room temperature for 10-15 minutes before air frying for the best results.

6. How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the breading is golden brown and crispy. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature for accuracy.

7. Can I add a sauce to this dish?

Yes! Parmesan-Crusted Chicken pairs wonderfully with marinara sauce, garlic butter sauce, or even a creamy ranch dip. You can also drizzle a bit of lemon juice over the top for added brightness.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Parmesan-Crusted Chicken is a quick, delicious, and healthier alternative to fried chicken that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or texture. The crispy, cheesy coating paired with the tender, juicy chicken is simply irresistible. With minimal prep and cook time, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or even a special occasion. Serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy a flavorful meal that everyone will love!

Chef MARTHA

Air Fryer Parmesan-Crusted Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients