Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken brings together juicy tender chicken and an irresistibly crisp cheese crust for a satisfying main dish that is lighter than traditional frying. This recipe is a staple in my kitchen for busy nights when I want dinner to feel special but still keep prep simple and cleanup easy.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: tender and lean choose ones similar in size for even cooking
• Fresh garlic: brings robust flavor freshly minced is best for potency
• Parmesan cheese: freshly grated for the best melt and a sharp nutty taste
• Panko breadcrumbs: extra crunch without heaviness choose Japanese style for big flakes
• Italian seasoning: all in one blend for savory herby depth check for freshness in your spice cabinet
• Salt: enhances every element and balances the cheese
• Black pepper: adds just enough bite try freshly ground for the most aroma
• Olive oil spray: helps the crust crisp up without excess oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Pat the Chicken Dry:

Use paper towels to thoroughly pat the chicken breasts dry This makes sure the outside gets beautifully crisp in the air fryer

Season the Chicken:

Combine salt black pepper Italian seasoning minced garlic and a bit of olive oil in a bowl Rub this mixture over each piece making sure they are well coated The oil and seasonings cling to the chicken and amplify the flavors

Prepare the Crust:

In another bowl mix together freshly grated Parmesan cheese with panko breadcrumbs The mixture should be well blended and a little clumpy The cheese will melt and form a golden crust

Coat the Chicken:

Press each chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture making sure every part is evenly covered Pat gently so the coating sticks on all sides This step is key for that even crunch you want with every bite

Preheat the Air Fryer:

Set your air fryer to three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit and let it heat for three minutes Preheating helps the chicken start crisping as soon as it hits the basket

Air Fry the Chicken:

Arrange the coated chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket Avoid overcrowding so hot air can circulate around every piece Spray the tops lightly with olive oil spray Air fry for twelve to fifteen minutes until the outside is deep golden and the inside reaches one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit

Serve:

Let the chicken rest for two minutes before slicing This keeps all those savory juices inside Serve piping hot while the crust is at its crunchiest

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Parmesan is my secret weapon with this recipe It turns nutty and toasty in the air fryer and even those picky eaters at my table go back for seconds My kids always ask for the crustiest piece and it has become their favorite comfort food dinner

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Reheat in the air fryer for five minutes at three hundred fifty degrees to bring back some of that original crunch Avoid microwaving as the crust will lose its crispiness

Ingredient Substitutions

Chicken thighs can be used for an even juicier result just increase cooking time by two to three minutes For dairy free try a combination of nutritional yeast and fine breadcrumbs instead of Parmesan and you still get that savoriness

Serving Suggestions

Serve over a bed of greens with a bright lemon vinaigrette or alongside roasted vegetables I also love slicing the chicken and layering it on a toasted bun with marinara sauce for a quick chicken parm sandwich

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Recipe FAQs

→ How do I keep the Parmesan coating from falling off?

Pat the chicken dry before seasoning and ensure it’s evenly coated in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture. Press gently for better adhesion before air frying.

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless thighs work well. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, adjusting time by a few minutes if needed.

→ What can I serve alongside this dish?

This chicken pairs well with roasted vegetables, mixed greens, or a simple pasta for a wholesome meal.

→ How do I achieve even crispiness in the air fryer?

Arrange chicken in a single layer without overlapping, and spray lightly with olive oil to promote an even, crispy texture.

→ Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

You can bread the chicken in advance and refrigerate for several hours before cooking. Best results are achieved air frying just before serving.