Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Air fryers have completely transformed the way we cook, and one of my favorite discoveries is Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken. I stumbled upon this dish when I was looking for a quick weeknight dinner that would impress my family without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe checks all the boxes: it’s crispy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare. Plus, it’s a healthier twist on the traditional fried chicken, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

If you want a meal that your whole family will adore, this Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a perfect choice. Not only does it boast a crunchy exterior paired with juicy chicken, but it’s also a speedy recipe that fits beautifully into any weeknight routine!

• Quick and Easy: Prep this dish in about 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy days!
• Kid-Approved: With its cheesy, crispy coating, this chicken is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Budget-Friendly: The ingredients are simple and often found in your pantry, making this an economical choice for family dinners.

"My kids beg for this chicken every week! The crust is so crunchy, and it’s way healthier than frying. It’s now a staple in our house!" – A Happy Home Cook

Step-by-Step Overview

Preparing Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a breeze. You’ll start by pounding the chicken breast to ensure even cooking. Then, follow up with a simple dredging process involving flour, an egg wash, and the tasty Parmesan breadcrumb mixture. Finally, air fry until golden brown, and you’ll end up with a delicious meal that’s perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

What You’ll Need

Gather These Items:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3 medium)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or Italian seasoned)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk or water
• Cooking spray

Feel free to swap out the type of breadcrumbs based on what you have on hand or experiment with different seasonings to give it your unique flavor!

Directions to Follow

1. Begin by placing each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a resealable bag.
2. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the chicken until it’s an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
3. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
4. In a shallow dish, mix together the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, flour, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
5. In another dish, whisk the eggs and milk or water together until blended.
6. Place the flour in a third dish for dredging.
7. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, ensuring all sides are coated.
8. Dip the floured chicken into the egg wash, ensuring it’s fully coated.
9. Press each piece of chicken into the Parmesan mixture, coating both sides evenly.
10. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
11. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
12. Arrange the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
13. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, then flip the chicken and cook for another 5-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
14. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest briefly before serving.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is incredibly versatile. Serve it over a bed of fresh salad greens for a light meal, pair it with roasted vegetables, or even tuck it into a warm baguette with a splash of marinara for a delightful sandwich.

Don’t forget to add a squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top for an extra burst of flavor!

How to Store and Reheat

To store any leftovers, let the chicken cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For the best reheating results, place the chicken back in the air fryer for about 3-5 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to restore its crispy coating.

Pro Chef Tips

• Uniform Thickness: Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures that it cooks uniformly.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese will deliver the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Air frying requires space for proper circulation. Cook in batches if necessary.

Recipe Variations

Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun tweaks:

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a touch of heat.
• Herb-Infused: Swap in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist.
• Cheesy Delight: Top with mozzarella cheese during the last few minutes of cooking for a melted finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the prep time for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Prep time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 15-20 minutes.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken! Wrap it tightly in plastic wraps and then in foil before placing in a freezer bag. It will last for up to 2 months.

What can I use instead of eggs?
You can substitute the eggs with a mixture of ground flaxseed and water or use unsweetened applesauce for a vegan alternative.

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