Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

In recent years, the air fryer has taken the culinary world by storm, transforming the way we approach cooking. This innovative kitchen appliance utilizes hot air circulation to cook food quickly and evenly, creating a crispy exterior without the excessive oil associated with traditional frying methods. For those looking to enjoy their favorite fried foods without the guilt, the air fryer is a game changer, allowing for healthier meal options that don’t compromise on taste.

Discover the joy of healthier cooking with this Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken! Perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, this dish combines the nutty flavor of Parmesan and the crunch of Panko breadcrumbs to create a satisfying meal in under 30 minutes. Enjoy a delicious alternative to traditional fried chicken, all while cutting down on oil and calories. This recipe is easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family. Dive into a flavor-packed, guilt-free dining experience!

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Ingredients

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Panko for extra crunch)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

2 large eggs

1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for drizzling)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. You can slice them in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets that cook more evenly, or leave them whole as desired.

Set Up Your Breading Station: In one shallow bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In a second bowl, mix the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Bread the Chicken: Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs to coat, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, press the chicken into the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, ensuring all sides are well coated. For an extra crust, you can repeat the egg dip and breading step.

Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.

Air Fry the Chicken: Arrange the breaded chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If using, drizzle lightly with olive oil to enhance crispiness. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 75°C).

Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside a fresh salad.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 2-4