Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Tender chicken breasts coated in a crispy, cheesy crust made healthier with the air fryer. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6–8 oz each, pounded to an even thickness)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 eggs (beaten with a tablespoon of water)
- Cooking spray (neutral oil like avocado or canola)
Instructions
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about ½ inch) and pat dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Set up the breading station: In one bowl, beat the eggs with a tablespoon of water. In another bowl, combine Parmesan, Panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt.
- Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray.
- Place the breaded chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray. Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the crust is golden brown and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 2–3 minutes before serving to lock in the juices.
Notes
[‘Preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking and crispiness.’, ‘Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melting and flavor.’, ‘Press the coating firmly onto the chicken to prevent it from falling off during cooking.’, ‘Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.’]
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Carbohydrates: 10
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 35
Keywords: Air Fryer, Parmesan Crusted Chicken, Healthy Dinner, Quick Recipe, Crispy Chicken