Chicken Parmesan, a classic Italian-American dish, gets a healthy and delicious makeover with this air fryer recipe. Forget the deep-fried mess; this method delivers crispy, golden-brown chicken breasts with melted mozzarella and a rich tomato sauce, all in a fraction of the time. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests with minimal cleanup.
What You'll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 ½ cups Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For Topping:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Season chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. In three separate shallow dishes, place the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese. Dredge each chicken breast through the flour, then the egg, and finally the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it's fully coated.
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Air Fry the Chicken: Lightly brush the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the breaded chicken breasts in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they aren't overcrowded. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
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Prepare the Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, heat the marinara sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the oregano, basil, and garlic powder. Simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Assemble and Bake (Optional): You can either directly top the cooked chicken in the air fryer basket (if your model allows for this and you want to save on dishes) or transfer the chicken to a baking dish. Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the chicken breasts. Top generously with shredded mozzarella cheese.
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Finish in the Air Fryer (Recommended): If using the air fryer, return the chicken to the air fryer and cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Alternatively, if using an oven, broil for 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
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Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves (optional) and serve immediately. Enjoy with your favorite sides, such as spaghetti, rice, or a simple salad.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
How long does it take to cook chicken parmesan in an air fryer?
The total cooking time for air fryer chicken parmesan is approximately 17-20 minutes, including the initial frying and the final melting of the cheese. However, this can vary depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts and your air fryer model. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
While you can use frozen chicken breasts, it will significantly increase the cooking time. It's best to thaw them completely before breading and air frying for optimal results and even cooking. Add about 5-7 minutes to the cooking time.
What kind of breadcrumbs should I use?
Panko breadcrumbs are a great option for extra crispiness, but regular Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs work perfectly well too.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can bread the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook. However, it's best to assemble and bake/air fry the chicken parmesan just before serving to ensure the cheese is perfectly melted and bubbly.
What are some variations I can try?
Get creative! Try adding different cheeses, such as provolone or Asiago. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices in the marinara sauce or add vegetables like roasted peppers or mushrooms.
This air fryer chicken parmesan recipe offers a healthier and faster way to enjoy this classic dish. Its crispy texture and juicy chicken will surely impress your family and friends! Remember to adjust cooking times based on your specific air fryer and the thickness of your chicken breasts. Enjoy!
