If you love Italian food but want a healthier twist, Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan is the perfect choice. You get all the rich flavors of traditional chicken parmesan without deep-frying in oil. This dish is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and topped with melted mozzarella and parmesan for that classic cheesy goodness. Using an air fryer makes the cooking process quick and effortless, so you can enjoy a restaurant-style meal at home in just 15 minutes. You’ll also love how clean and simple the cooking process is, with minimal dishes to wash afterward.
Why We Love This Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan Recipe
You’ll fall in love with this version of chicken parmesan because it keeps all the flavors you enjoy without extra fat. The air fryer ensures the chicken is crunchy, the cheese melts perfectly, and the tomato sauce adds a rich, savory layer. It’s ready in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or quick family dinners. You’ll appreciate how easy it is to assemble, cook, and serve, yet it looks and tastes like a special dish. Plus, pairing it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables turns it into a complete, satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
- 4 chicken cutlets
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- ⅓ cup Italian breadcrumbs
- ⅓ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup spaghetti sauce
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
Start by preparing three shallow dishes for coating your chicken. Place flour in the first dish, lightly beaten eggs in the second, and a mixture of Italian breadcrumbs, panko, and parmesan in the third. This setup makes it easy to coat each chicken cutlet evenly.
Season your chicken cutlets with salt and pepper if you like. Then, dip each cutlet first into the flour, making sure it’s fully covered. Next, dip it in the eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the cutlet in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help the coating stick.
Preheat your air fryer to 350ºF. Place two coated cutlets into the basket and lightly spray them with cooking spray. Cook for 6 minutes until the coating is golden and crispy.
Once the initial cooking is done, spread 2 tablespoons of spaghetti sauce on each cutlet. Then, sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella over the top. Increase the air fryer temperature to 400ºF and cook for another 4 to 5 minutes until the cheese melts and slightly browns.
Repeat the same steps with the remaining two cutlets. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking, as air fryer models may vary in intensity. After cooking, let the chicken rest for a minute before serving to lock in the juices.
How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
Serving this dish is simple, and presentation makes it feel extra special. You can plate each chicken cutlet on a dinner plate and add a fresh side salad for a light and colorful contrast. Pasta or steamed vegetables work well too. Drizzle any leftover tomato sauce from cooking over the top to enhance flavor and make the dish look appealing. You can also sprinkle a little extra parmesan before serving for a professional touch. Serve while warm to enjoy the melty cheese and crispy chicken in every bite.
Expert Tips: Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
To get the best results, use a mix of Italian breadcrumbs and panko. The panko adds crunch while the parmesan boosts flavor. Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket, as air circulation is key to even cooking. If you prefer extra crispy chicken, spray lightly with cooking spray before cooking. Adjust cooking times slightly depending on your air fryer model, since temperatures can vary. Let the chicken rest for a minute after cooking to keep it juicy inside. For a richer flavor, use freshly grated parmesan instead of pre-packaged cheese.
How to Store Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
Leftover chicken parmesan stores well in the refrigerator. Place any uneaten chicken in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350ºF for a few minutes to regain the crispiness. You can also reheat in a conventional oven at 375ºF for 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the coating soggy. Storing individual cutlets separately prevents sticking and helps preserve the crunchy texture.
Variation of Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
You can customize this recipe in a few simple ways. Try adding Italian herbs like oregano or basil to the breadcrumb mixture for a more aromatic flavor. Swap mozzarella for provolone or a mix of cheeses for a different cheesy taste. For a lighter version, use a low-fat mozzarella or skip the parmesan in the coating. You can also try adding a thin layer of fresh spinach or roasted vegetables between the chicken and cheese for added nutrients. These variations keep the dish exciting while staying quick and easy.
FAQ about Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
Can I use chicken breasts instead of cutlets?
Yes, you can slice chicken breasts horizontally to make thinner cutlets or pound them for even cooking.
Do I need to use both Italian and panko breadcrumbs?
Using both gives you a perfect mix of flavor and crunch, but you can use only one type if needed.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken with coating and store it in the fridge, but cook it just before serving for best results.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165ºF and the coating is golden brown.
Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
Equipment
- Air Fryer
- Shallow dishes
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 4 cutlets chicken
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs lightly beaten
- ⅓ cup Italian breadcrumbs
- ⅓ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ⅓ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup spaghetti sauce
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Prepare three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of Italian breadcrumbs, panko, and parmesan.
- Season chicken cutlets with salt and pepper. Dip each cutlet in flour, then in eggs, and finally in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Preheat air fryer to 350ºF. Place two coated cutlets in the basket and spray lightly with cooking spray. Cook for 6 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Spread 2 tablespoons of spaghetti sauce on each cutlet. Top with half of the shredded mozzarella. Increase temperature to 400ºF and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until cheese is melted and browned.
- Repeat with remaining cutlets, monitoring closely to avoid overcooking. Let rest for a minute before serving.
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