Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan is a lighter, quicker version of the beloved Italian-inspired classic. With crispy breaded chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella, this dish packs all the flavor of the original—without the extra oil or mess. Perfect for weeknights, this recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal in just 25 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy outside and juicy inside thanks to the air fryer.

• Ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy nights.

• Uses less oil than traditional frying, making it a healthier option.

• Family-friendly and pairs well with many sides.

• Easy cleanup with minimal mess.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved horizontally

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs

• 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 large egg, whisked

• 1/2 cup marinara sauce

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• Non-stick spray

Directions

1. Preheat air fryer to 360°F for 3–5 minutes.

2. Place chicken between parchment paper and pound to even thickness. Season with salt and pepper.

3. In one shallow dish, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and garlic powder. In another, whisk the egg.

4. Dip chicken in egg, then coat evenly in breadcrumb mixture.

5. Lightly spray chicken with non-stick spray and place in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook in batches if necessary.

6. Air fry at 360°F for 6 minutes, flip, and cook another 3 minutes.

7. Top each chicken breast with 2 tablespoons marinara and 2 tablespoons mozzarella. Return to air fryer for 3 more minutes until cheese is melted.

8. Serve hot with pasta, salad, or vegetables.

Servings and timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

• Yield: 4 servings

• Calories: about 216 kcal per serving

Variations

• Swap mozzarella for provolone or a mozzarella-cheddar blend.

• Add Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.

• Make it lighter by using whole wheat breadcrumbs.

• Turn it into a sandwich by serving in a toasted hoagie roll.

• Use chicken tenders for kid-friendly, bite-sized portions.

storage/reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes until warm and crisp.

• Avoid microwaving, as it may make the coating soggy.

• Not recommended for freezing, as the breading may lose its crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well—just adjust cooking time slightly.

Do I need to flip the chicken in the air fryer?

Yes, flipping ensures even crisping on both sides.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs.

What marinara sauce works best?

Use your favorite brand or homemade marinara for the best flavor.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

Yes, bread the chicken and refrigerate up to 4 hours before cooking.

How do I keep the breading from falling off?

Pat chicken dry before breading and press the coating firmly onto each piece.

Can I cook multiple pieces at once?

Yes, but don’t overcrowd the basket—leave space for air circulation.

Is oil spray necessary?

Yes, a light coating helps the chicken crisp up.

Can I use frozen chicken?

No, the chicken should be thawed before breading and cooking.

What can I serve with Chicken Parmesan?

It pairs perfectly with spaghetti, roasted vegetables, or a crisp side salad.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan is a fast, healthier twist on a timeless favorite. With its crispy coating, rich marinara, and melty cheese, it’s every bit as satisfying as the classic version—but much easier to make on a weeknight. Serve it with your favorite sides for a complete, family-pleasing meal.

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