Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly crispy, golden-brown chicken breast, its parmesan crust bursting with flavor in every bite; the best part? It’s ready in minutes, thanks to the magic of your air fryer! This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe will become a staple in your kitchen – I promise it’s easier than you think, and even more delicious! Okay, so you might be wondering, “Why another chicken recipe?” Well, this Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken stands out for a few reasons. First, it’s incredibly quick. We’re talking weeknight dinner hero status! Second, it’s healthier than traditional frying because we’re using the air fryer, which means less oil and fewer calories. Plus, who doesn’t love a crispy, cheesy crust? This is one of the best easy chicken air fryer recipes I know. Looking to keep things on the lighter side? This recipe is already a great start compared to deep-fried versions! To make it even healthier, consider using whole wheat breadcrumbs, reducing the amount of parmesan cheese slightly, and serving it with a large portion of steamed or roasted vegetables. Using chicken tenders also helps reduce cooking time and keep the portion size manageable. These simple tweaks can transform this into a truly guilt-free pleasure. I truly believe this Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken will become a regular in your dinner rotation. It’s quick, easy, delicious, and relatively healthy – what more could you ask for? So, grab your ingredients, fire up that air fryer, and get ready to enjoy a truly satisfying meal!

Tips and Tricks for Air Fryer Success – Getting the perfect Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is all about the details. Here are a few tricks I’ve learned along the way:
➢ Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: This is key to crispy chicken. If you overcrowd the basket, the chicken will steam instead of crisping up. Cook in batches if needed.
➢ Use a meat thermometer: The best way to ensure your chicken is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken breast. It should read 165°F (74°C).
➢ Spray with oil: A light spray of cooking oil (olive oil or avocado oil) before and halfway through cooking helps the crust get extra crispy.
➢ Don’t skip the resting period: Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken breast.

Variations to Spice Things Up – Want to put your own spin on this classic? Here are a few ideas:
➢ Add some heat: Mix a pinch of red pepper flakes into the parmesan crust for a little kick.
➢ Herb it up: Experiment with different herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary in the crust.
➢ Cheese, please!: Add a layer of mozzarella cheese during the last minute of cooking for a gooey, cheesy topping.
➢ Gluten-Free: Easily make this gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Serving Suggestions: Complete the Meal – This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is incredibly versatile. Here are a few of my favorite ways to serve it:
➢ With a side of veggies: Serve it with roasted broccoli, asparagus, or green beans for a healthy and balanced meal.
➢ Over pasta: Toss it with your favorite pasta and a simple tomato sauce or Alfredo sauce. You can even add some spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor.
➢ In a salad: Slice the chicken and add it to a Caesar salad or a mixed green salad with your favorite dressing.
➢ As a sandwich: Serve it on a bun with lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise for a delicious chicken sandwich.

FAQs:
Q: Why is air frying chicken better than traditional frying?
A: Air frying is healthier because it uses less oil, resulting in fewer calories.
Q: What is the ideal internal temperature for cooked chicken?
A: The ideal internal temperature for cooked chicken is 165°F (74°C). Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure it’s cooked through.
Q: How should I store and reheat leftover Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving.
Q: What are some variations I can try with this recipe?
A: You can add red pepper flakes for heat, experiment with different herbs like basil or rosemary, add mozzarella cheese during the last minute of cooking, or make it gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.

Ingredients:
1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, about 3 medium
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup breadcrumbs panko or Italian seasoned
¼ cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp dried oregano
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
2 large eggs
2 Tbsp milk or water
Cooking spray

Instructions:
Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap, or in a resealable bag. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the chicken to an even thickness of about ½ inch. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. In a shallow dish, combine the parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, flour, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well. In another shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and milk (or water). Place the flour in the third shallow dish. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, making sure to coat all sides. Shake off any excess flour. Dip the floured chicken into the egg wash, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let any excess drip off. Press the chicken into the parmesan cheese mixture, coating both sides evenly. Gently press the crust to help it adhere. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the parmesan-crusted chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd. You may need to cook them in batches. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, then flip the chicken, and cook for another 5-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Cooking time may vary, depending on the thickness of the chicken, and your air fryer. Remove the chicken from the air fryer, and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes:
➢ Don’t overcrowd the air fryer for crispy chicken.
➢ Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to 165°F (74°C).
➢ Spray with cooking oil for extra crispiness.
➢ Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking for juicier results.
➢ Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
➢ Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
➢ For variations, add red pepper flakes for heat, experiment with different herbs, add mozzarella cheese for a gooey topping.
➢ Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour for a gluten-free version.

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