Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

There’s something magical about the aroma that fills your kitchen when you’re preparing Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken. Imagine that perfectly crispy coating, golden brown, calling out to you like a siren song, while juicy chicken breasts await their moment of glory. The crunch, the savory richness of cheese, and the warm notes of garlic all come together for a flavor explosion that makes even the pickiest eaters want seconds. For more inspiration, check out this Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies recipe.

I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a chaotic weeknight dinner, and I was juggling too many pots and pans. My kids were circling the kitchen like hungry hawks, eyeing my every move. But as soon as I pulled out that air fryer, they stopped in their tracks—not just for any chicken but for this divine creation. The anticipation built as the chicken cooked to perfection, and I knew I had hit culinary gold!

Ingredients for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for 3-4 chicken breasts that are evenly sized to ensure consistent cooking.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan gives a better flavor than pre-packaged options; it melts beautifully.
• Breadcrumbs: Use plain or Italian breadcrumbs for an extra layer of flavor; they create a delightful crunch.
• Garlic Powder: A little garlic powder goes a long way in enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs adds depth and aroma to your chicken without overpowering its natural taste.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.
• Olive Oil Spray: Lightly spraying helps achieve that golden-brown crust without excess grease.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial because it ensures even cooking and helps create that irresistible crispy exterior.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Pat dry your boneless skinless chicken breasts using paper towels. This removes excess moisture and helps achieve better browning.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is evenly mixed.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Take each chicken breast and dip it into the breadcrumb mixture. Press down gently so that the crumbs adhere well; we want every inch covered!

Step 5: Spray with Olive Oil

Place your coated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Give them a light spray of olive oil to encourage that lovely golden finish.

Step 6: Cook and Serve

Cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch!

Now imagine serving this Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken at your next family gathering or cozy weeknight dinner—everyone will be clamoring for more! You might even find yourself crowned “Family Chef of the Year.” Enjoy!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by seasoning the chicken thoroughly to allow the flavors to penetrate. Preheat your air fryer while breading the chicken. Cook in batches if needed to ensure even crispiness and avoid overcrowding, achieving that golden brown perfection.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the Parmesan cheese for a different variety, like Pecorino Romano. Add herbs such as Italian seasoning or garlic powder for an extra kick. You can even toss in some crushed red pepper flakes for those spicy moments!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes to restore its delightful crunch.

There was that one dinner party where I served this Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken, and my friends went wild! They kept asking if I had a secret ingredient. Little did they know it was just pure love (and a dash of garlic).

FAQs:

What is the best way to season Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

To enhance the flavor of Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken, use a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. You can also add Italian seasoning or paprika for an extra kick. Marinating the chicken in a blend of olive oil and lemon juice before breading adds moisture and depth to the dish. Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers This seasoning combination not only complements the Parmesan crust but also elevates the overall taste, making your chicken tender and flavorful.

Can I make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken gluten-free. Instead of using regular breadcrumbs, opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Additionally, ensure that your Parmesan cheese is gluten-free as well. Spinach Casserole with Chicken This way, you can enjoy a deliciously crispy chicken without worrying about gluten content while still savoring all the flavors that this recipe offers. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.

How long does it take to cook Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

Cooking Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken typically takes about 12 to 15 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Cooking time may vary based on your air fryer model and the thickness of the chicken breasts. Always check for doneness by ensuring that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (75°C). For extra crispiness, consider flipping the chicken halfway through cooking for even browning.

Can I store leftovers of Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

Yes, you can store leftovers of Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–7 minutes until heated through. This method helps retain its crispy texture while ensuring it remains juicy and flavorful. Enjoy your delicious leftovers without losing any quality!

Conclusion for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken:

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a delightful dish that combines crispy textures with rich flavors. By using simple ingredients like chicken breasts, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese, you can create a meal that’s both satisfying and healthy. Remember to adjust seasoning according to your taste preferences and explore gluten-free options if needed. Homemade Butter Chicken With quick cooking times and easy cleanup, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. Enjoy your culinary creation!

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📖 Recipe Card

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Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

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• Author: Chloe
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a quick and delicious weeknight meal that combines juicy chicken breasts with a crispy, cheesy coating. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor, featuring savory garlic and aromatic herbs. Perfect for families or gatherings, it guarantees satisfaction at the dinner table. With its golden-brown crust and tender interior, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your home.

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Ingredients

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• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup plain or Italian breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Olive oil spray

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Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
3. In a shallow bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Coat each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer and spray lightly with olive oil.
6. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Serve hot.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approximately 6 oz)
• Calories: 340
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 42g
• Cholesterol: 130mg