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Air fryer chicken parmesan on white plate with melted mozzarella cheese and marinara sauce

Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

A healthier twist on classic Italian Chicken Parmesan made in an air fryer for crispy texture without deep frying. Ready in about 35 minutes with juicy chicken, golden breading, and melted cheese.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 17 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 2 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs Italian seasoned or panko
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese freshly grated preferred
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese whole milk preferred
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Meat mallet
  • Shallow dishes for breading
  • Meat thermometer
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
  2. Pat chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch using a meat mallet between two pieces of plastic wrap. This ensures even cooking.
  3. Prepare the breading station by mixing breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in one shallow dish until well combined.
  4. Brush or drizzle olive oil over both sides of each chicken breast. Then press each piece firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides completely. Press down firmly to help the coating adhere.
  5. Place the breaded chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer without overlapping. If needed, cook in batches. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the coating is golden brown and crispy.
  6. Remove the chicken and spoon about 1/4 cup marinara sauce over each piece, then sprinkle generously with mozzarella cheese.
  7. Return the chicken to the air fryer and cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly with light browning around the edges.
  8. Let the chicken rest for 2 to 3 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) with a meat thermometer.

Notes

For best results, don't overcrowd the air fryer basket. You can spray the breaded chicken lightly with cooking spray before cooking for extra crispiness. Pat chicken completely dry before breading to help coating stick. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days and reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes.