Irresistible Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

Introduction

This Irresistible Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a quick and delicious way to enjoy a crispy, flavorful meal without the mess of frying. Perfectly seasoned and crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, it’s a family favorite that’s ready in just minutes.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Step 2: In a bowl, mix together the Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and dried Italian herbs.
3. Step 3: Lightly coat each chicken breast with olive oil, then dip into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to fully coat.
4. Step 4: Arrange the coated chicken breasts in a single layer in the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.
5. Step 5: Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Step 6: Serve hot with your favorite sides or sauces.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
• Use fresh Parmesan for better texture and taste.
• Try swapping Italian herbs for fresh parsley or thyme for a different herb profile.
• Serve with a side of marinara or ranch dressing for dipping.

Storage

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place chicken back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well. Adjust cooking time slightly, checking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Do I need to spray the air fryer basket with oil?

It’s optional since the chicken is coated with olive oil and breadcrumbs, but lightly spraying the basket can help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Irresistible Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 134 reviews

This Irresistible Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe offers a crispy, flavorful coating made from Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs, perfectly cooked in an air fryer for a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. It’s quick, easy, and delicious, delivering juicy chicken breasts with a golden, crunchy crust.

• Author: Joe
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Air Frying
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)

Coating

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)

Oil

• 2 tsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for cooking the chicken evenly and achieving a crispy crust.
2. Prepare the Coating Mixture: In a bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and dried Italian herbs, mixing thoroughly to create a flavorful crust mixture.
3. Coat the Chicken: Lightly brush or rub each chicken breast with olive oil, then thoroughly dip each piece into the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well to the surface.
4. Arrange in Air Fryer Basket: Place the coated chicken breasts in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap to allow hot air circulation for even cooking and crispiness.
5. Cook the Chicken: Air fry the chicken breasts at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to promote even browning and maintain a crispy texture on both sides. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden brown.
6. Serve: Remove the cooked chicken from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite sides or sauces for a delightful, crispy meal.

Notes

• Ensure chicken breasts are of similar size for even cooking.
• You can substitute Italian herbs with any preferred dried herbs like rosemary or parsley.
• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken briefly in olive oil and garlic before coating.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain juices.
• If your air fryer is small, cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Keywords: Parmesan crusted chicken, air fryer chicken breast, crispy chicken recipe, easy air fryer recipes, Italian herb chicken