Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a delightful dish that combines crispy textures with rich flavors. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe offers a healthier twist on classic fried chicken. The air fryer ensures the chicken remains juicy while achieving a golden, crunchy coating. This dish is sure to impress your family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 35 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Crispy Texture: The air fryer creates a perfectly crispy crust without the excess oil of traditional frying.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of Parmesan cheese and spices delivers a savory taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with salads, pasta, or sandwiches for a variety of meal options.
• Healthy Option: Enjoy the indulgence of fried chicken without the guilt, thanks to the air fryer.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Tools and Preparation

To make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. These will help streamline the process and ensure delicious results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Shallow bowls (2)
• Cooking spray or oil sprayer
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: Cooks food evenly while providing a crispy texture without deep frying.
• Shallow bowls: Ideal for easy breading and coating of chicken cutlets.
• Knife: Ensures precise slicing of chicken breasts into thin cutlets.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 chicken breast (sliced into two thin cutlets)

For the Coating

• ⅓ cup panko breadcrumbs
• ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

For Binding

• 1 egg (lightly whisked)

Seasoning

• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Cooking Oil

• Olive oil or cooking spray

How to Make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Step 1: Preheat Air Fryer

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and achieves that perfect crispiness.

Step 2: Prepare Chicken Cutlets

Slice the chicken breast horizontally to create two thin cutlets. Season both sides with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor.

Step 3: Prepare Coatings

In one shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, and garlic powder. In another shallow bowl, lightly whisk the egg until frothy.

Step 4: Coat Chicken

Dip each chicken cutlet into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Then coat each cutlet evenly in the panko-Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks well.

Step 5: Cook in Air Fryer

Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated chicken cutlets inside, making sure not to overcrowd them. Lightly spray the top of each cutlet with oil.

Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking. The chicken should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Serve

Once cooked, plate your crispy chicken cutlets and enjoy them hot! They pair well with various sides like veggies or potatoes.

How to Serve Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

On a Salad

• A light green salad topped with slices of the crispy chicken adds crunch and protein.

In a Wrap

• Use a tortilla to wrap the chicken with fresh veggies and a drizzle of dressing for a quick lunch option.

With Dipping Sauces

• Serve the chicken with marinara or ranch dressing on the side for an extra layer of flavor.

Over Pasta

• Place the cutlets on top of spaghetti with marinara sauce, creating a delicious Italian-inspired meal.

As Part of a Platter

• Include the chicken on a charcuterie board alongside cheeses, olives, and crackers for an appealing appetizer.

How to Perfect Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Perfecting your Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken comes down to technique. Here are some tips to ensure optimal results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality cheese enhance the flavor of your dish significantly.

• Don’t Rush the Coating: Make sure each cutlet is fully coated in the panko-Parmesan mixture for maximum crunch.

• Preheat Properly: Preheating the air fryer ensures even cooking and helps achieve that golden-brown crust.

• Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure that your chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

• Avoid Overcrowding: Cook in batches if necessary; overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and soggy breading.

Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Pairing your Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with the right sides can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side.

2. Roasted Vegetables – A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender complements the savory chicken well.

3. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing pairs perfectly with the crunchy chicken.

4. Quinoa Salad – A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with herbs and lemon adds a healthy touch to your plate.

5. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli provides nutrients while balancing out rich flavors.

6. Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs is an easy yet delicious accompaniment to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

• Skipping the Preheat: Not preheating the air fryer can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your air fryer for optimal results.
• Overcrowding the Basket: Placing too many cutlets in the basket can prevent them from crisping up properly. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Inconsistent Coating: Failing to coat the chicken evenly can result in some areas being soggy. Make sure to press the coating firmly onto each cutlet.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Cooking for too long or not long enough can ruin your chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Not Using Enough Oil: Skimping on oil can lead to dry chicken and less crispy texture. Lightly spray all sides of the cutlets with oil before cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• Freeze cooked chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
• Properly sealed, it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, but be aware this may make it less crispy.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a skillet over medium heat with a bit of oil for about 5-7 minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries answered.

What is Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a delicious dish where chicken cutlets are coated with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, then air-fried until golden brown.

How do I make my coating stick better?

To ensure that your coating adheres well, press down gently while coating each cutlet and allow any excess egg mixture to drip off before dipping into the breadcrumb mix.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! You can substitute Parmesan with other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for different flavors and textures.

How do I know when my chicken is done?

The safest way to check is by using a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is not only simple but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding different herbs or spices based on your taste preferences. This recipe makes for a delicious dinner option that will surely impress family and friends. Give it a try!