Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner idea, Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is the way to go! This tasty dish combines tender chicken breasts with a crispy, cheesy coating. Thanks to the air fryer, you can enjoy all the crunch without the extra oil. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that everyone in your family will love.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a fantastic choice for several reasons. First, it’s simple and quick to prepare. The air fryer cooks the chicken evenly, giving it a delightful crispiness. Plus, it uses healthier ingredients like Parmesan cheese and whole-grain panko breadcrumbs, making it a tasty yet nutritious option. Whether you are busy during the week or serving guests on the weekend, this dish is sure to impress.

How to Make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
Olive oil spray

Directions:

Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness.
In a bowl, mix salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, and olive oil. Rub this mixture over each chicken breast.
In another bowl, combine Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs.
Dip each seasoned chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
Arrange chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray lightly with olive oil spray.
Cook for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Serve hot.

How to Serve Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Serve Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken with a side of your favorite vegetables or a fresh salad. It pairs nicely with a dipping sauce like marinara or a simple squeeze of lemon. You can also serve it with pasta for a heartier meal.

How to Store Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

If you have leftovers, let the chicken cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the air fryer or oven to maintain its crispiness.

Tips to Make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Make sure to dry the chicken well before seasoning; this helps achieve a crispy coating.
For extra crunch, consider mixing in some crushed cornflakes with the panko.
Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the breadcrumb mixture for a personalized touch.

Variation

You can add a twist to this recipe by using different cheese like cheddar or adding herbs like parsley or basil to the breadcrumbs. For a spicy kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the seasoning mix.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time. Make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

2. Can I make this without an air fryer?
Yes! You can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes.

3. What can I serve with this dish?
It goes well with vegetables, a salad, pasta, or even rice. Choose your favorite side to make a complete meal!