Description
Air Fryer Parmesan-Crusted Chicken is a healthier alternative to fried chicken with a crispy, golden crust made from Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs. The chicken remains juicy and tender, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 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)
Instructions
- Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- In a shallow dish, combine grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and dried Italian seasoning. Stir to combine.
- Dip each chicken breast into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, coat the chicken in the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
- Lightly spray both sides of the breaded chicken with olive oil spray.
- Place the breaded chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not overcrowded. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden and crispy (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, salad, or dipping sauce.
Notes
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier option. Adjust cooking time as needed.
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.
- If using regular breadcrumbs instead of panko, expect a denser crust.
- The breaded chicken can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 1 day before cooking.
- To reheat, place in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
