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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan: A Healthy Twist on a Classic!


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  • Author: James Carter
  • Total Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Enjoy all the classic flavors of chicken parmesan with this healthier, crispy air fryer version. Made with lean chicken breast, panko breadcrumbs, and marinara sauce, it’s a guilt-free Italian favorite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into ½-inch thick cutlets
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving, if desired)
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil, for spraying
  • 1 cup marinara sauce (your favorite store-bought or homemade)
  • 4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced or shredded

Instructions

  1. 1. Prepare the chicken: Pound chicken breasts to ½-inch thickness if needed, then pat dry.
  2. 2. Set up breading station: Prepare three shallow dishes with flour, whisked eggs, and a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Bread the chicken: Dredge each cutlet in flour, then egg, then press into the breadcrumb mixture.
  4. 4. Preheat air fryer: Preheat to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  5. 5. Air fry chicken: Arrange breaded cutlets in a single layer in the air fryer basket (work in batches). Spray with oil. Air fry for 8-10 minutes.
  6. 6. Flip and add toppings: Flip chicken, spoon marinara sauce over each, and top with mozzarella cheese.
  7. 7. Finish cooking: Air fry for another 4-6 minutes, until chicken is cooked through (165°F/74°C) and cheese is melted.
  8. 8. Serve immediately.

Notes

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes for best results. Avoid microwaving to maintain crispiness.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: Approx. 450-500
  • Sugar: Approx. 5-7g
  • Sodium: Approx. 500-700mg
  • Fat: Approx. 20-25g
  • Carbohydrates: Approx. 25-30g
  • Fiber: Approx. 3-4g
  • Protein: Approx. 40-45g