Crispy Parmesan Chicken: Air Fryer Recipe

Introduction

If you thought fried chicken couldn’t get any better, let me introduce you to Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken. Crispy, cheesy, and perfectly golden, this dish is a game-changer. It’s like your favorite fried chicken took a trip to Italy and came back with a Parmesan-packed makeover. Best part? It’s made in the air fryer, so you get all the crispy goodness without the greasy mess. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing your guests at a party, this chicken is a guaranteed hit.

Key Takeaways:

• Crispy Parmesan crust without the need for deep frying.
• Ready in less than 30 minutes—weeknight dinner hero.
• Air fryer = minimal cleanup and healthier frying.

Photo bySam Miller

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to an even thickness, because we like consistency)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (the star of the show, freshly grated for maximum flavor)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (extra crispy crunch)
• 1 tsp garlic powder (adds a subtle savory punch)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (because we're going full flavor)
• ½ tsp salt (to bring it all together)
• ½ tsp black pepper (a little heat, but not too much)
• 2 large eggs (beaten, for that perfect coating)
• Olive oil spray (to give it that golden finish)

Directions

1. Preheat your air fryer: Set it to 375°F, and let it get nice and hot while you prep the chicken.
2. Prepare the coating: In one shallow bowl, whisk the eggs. In another bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat the chicken: Dip each chicken breast in the beaten eggs, then press into the Parmesan mixture, making sure every piece is fully coated and ready to get crispy.
4. Air fry it up: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil. Place the coated chicken breasts in the basket in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Spray the top of the chicken lightly with olive oil, and cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Serve and enjoy: Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after removing it from the air fryer. Then dig in!

Photo bySam Miller

Side Dish Ideas

• Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted asparagus, broccoli, or green beans to add some freshness.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect contrast to the crispy chicken.
• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs wonderfully with this Parmesan-crusted chicken.

Nutritional Facts (Per serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Carbs: 8g
• Protein: 40g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g

Prep/Cook Time

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes

Photo bySam Miller

Conclusion

This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is everything you love about fried chicken, but lighter, crispier, and packed with cheesy goodness. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s guaranteed to become a family favorite. Whether you serve it up with veggies, pasta, or even over a salad, this dish will have everyone coming back for seconds (and maybe thirds). Who knew chicken could be this magical?