Introduction

Have you ever wondered if you could enjoy a delicious plate of Chicken Parmesan without the guilt? Surprisingly, traditional methods of frying leave many home cooks hesitant to indulge in this Italian favorite due to its high-fat content. What if there was a way to create a crispy, golden Chicken Parmesan using an air fryer that takes less time and adds less fat? This Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan recipe accomplishes just that, being both delectable and significantly healthier. Join me as we unveil a mouthwatering dish that proves healthy eating can be indulgent!

Ingredients List

Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan recipe:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (whole wheat or gluten-free for a nutritious alternative)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 large egg (or egg substitute for a vegan option)
• 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (try a vegan cheese option for dairy-free)
• Cooking spray or olive oil spray

Feel free to get creative here! Swap out the breadcrumbs for crushed nuts or oats, which can add unique flavors and textures to your dish.

Timing

This recipe is designed for efficiency! Here’s a breakdown of the timing:

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes, which is 20% less time than the average oven-baked Chicken Parmesan recipe.

Given these timings, you can serve up a satisfying, gourmet dinner even on your busiest evenings!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare the chicken breasts. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them to about 1/2 inch thickness. This ensures even cooking, preventing dry or undercooked spots.

2. Create the Breading Station

In a shallow bowl, whisk the egg with a pinch of salt. In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of flavors.

3. Bread the Chicken

Dip each chicken breast first into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off. Then, coat both sides in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing it onto the chicken to adhere. Optionally, you can double-dip for a thicker crust by repeating the egg and breadcrumb processes.

4. Air Fry the Chicken

Place the breaded chicken breasts in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray. Air fry for 10 minutes, then flip the chicken, spray again, and cook for an additional 5-8 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden and crispy.

5. Add Marinara and Cheese

Once your chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the air fryer. Spoon marinara sauce generously over each piece, and then sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top. Return the chicken to the air fryer and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Carefully remove the chicken from the air fryer. Allow it to cool for a minute before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with a side salad, pasta, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional landscape of your food can enhance your dining experience. Here’s a breakdown of the essential nutrients in one serving (based on 4 servings total):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 38g
• Fat: 15g (7g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg

This nutritional profile reflects a dish that is both satisfying and healthier than traditional versions, allowing for guilt-free indulgence!

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Here are several ways to tweak this recipe for enhanced healthfulness:

• Breadcrumbs: Use almond flour or whole wheat breadcrumbs for added fiber and nutrients.
• Cheese: Opt for part-skim or fat-free mozzarella to lower fat content.
• Egg: Use ground flaxseed mixed with water as a vegan egg substitute.
• Sauce: Choose marinara with no added sugars, or make your own for complete control over the ingredients.

These adjustments can help accommodate various dietary preferences while retaining the dish’s classic Italian flair.

Serving Suggestions

This Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan is versatile and can be presented in numerous delightful ways:

• Serve it over a bed of zucchini noodles for a low-carb meal.
• Pair with a light arugula salad topped with lemon vinaigrette for a fresh side.
• For a heartier option, enjoy it alongside whole wheat spaghetti dressed lightly in olive oil.
• Consider topping sliced avocado for creaminess or fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Preheating the Air Fryer: Always preheat to ensure the chicken cooks evenly and gets crispy.
• Skipping the Spraying Step: Not using cooking spray can lead to a dry crust, so don’t skip this crucial step.
• Overcrowding the Basket: Cooking too many pieces at once may prevent adequate air circulation, leading to uneven cooking.
• Using Cold Chicken: Make sure your chicken is at room temperature before starting. Cold chicken can lead to longer cooking times.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Leftovers? No problem! Follow these storing tips to enjoy your dish later:

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container.
• You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
• To reheat, use the air fryer at 350°F for about 8-10 minutes, or until heated through.

For best results, reheating in the air fryer helps maintain that crispy exterior.

Conclusion

With this Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan recipe, you can indulge in a beloved classic that’s both healthier and quicker to prepare. Give it a try and let us know your thoughts by sharing feedback in the comments or reviews section. Don’t forget to subscribe for more delightful, wholesome recipes!

FAQs

A: Can I make Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan without cheese?

Absolutely! You can simply skip the cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free alternative. You could also enhance flavors with extra herbs or spices in the marinara sauce.

B: How do I know when my chicken is fully cooked?

The safest method to ensure your chicken is cooked is by using a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

C: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

While it’s possible to cook frozen chicken in an air fryer, the cooking time will need to increase significantly. It’s advisable to thaw your chicken in the refrigerator prior to cooking for the best results.

D: What sides pair well with Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan?

Consider serving with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or a whole grain pasta to make it a complete meal.

E: Can I double this recipe easily?

Yes! To double the recipe, ensure you do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. You may need to cook in batches for optimal crispiness.

Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: jamal
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Enjoy a quick & tasty meal with this easy air fryer chicken parmesan recipe. Perfectly crispy & flavorful, it’s a family favorite. 154 chars

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1/2 cup of breadcrumbs (whole wheat or gluten-free)

1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 large egg (or egg substitute for a vegan option)

1 cup of marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)

1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese (or vegan cheese option)

Cooking spray or olive oil spray

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.

Pound the chicken breasts to about 1/2 inch thickness for even cooking.

In a shallow bowl, whisk the egg with a pinch of salt. In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture and then into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere.

Place the breaded chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket, spraying the tops with cooking spray. Air fry for 10 minutes, flip, spray again, and cook for an additional 5-8 minutes until golden and cooked through.

Spoon marinara sauce over each piece and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella. Return to the air fryer for 3-5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.

Remove from the air fryer and let cool for a minute before serving.

Notes

Enjoy a delicious plate of Chicken Parmesan without the guilt with this Air Fryer version that’s healthier and quicker to prepare.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 servings
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 38g