I’m so excited to share one of my all-time favorite recipes with you—Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken! This dish not only makes weeknight dinners a breeze, but it also packs a delicious crunch that can make even the pickiest eaters say, “Wow, I want seconds!” I remember the first time I made this for my family; it was one of those “whoa, what’s cooking?” moments. The aroma wafting through the house had everyone gathering in the kitchen before I had even set the table.
What I love most about this recipe is how effortlessly it transforms a regular chicken breast into a gourmet meal with the rich flavors of Parmesan and herbs. The air fryer gives it that fantastic crunch without the need for a deep fryer or loads of oil, so I can indulge guilt-free! Whether you serve it with a side salad, some roasted veggies, or even over pasta, it’s bound to be a hit.
What’s in Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Chicken Breasts: The star of the show! I prefer boneless, skinless chicken breasts, as they cook evenly and are easy to work with.
Parmesan Cheese: Aged and nutty, Parmesan is perfect for that crispy, delicious crust. Grating fresh cheese will take this dish over the top; trust me, it’s worth it!
Breadcrumbs: For that crunch! I usually use panko breadcrumbs because they’re lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs, but you can go with what you love.
Garlic Powder: A must for flavor! Just a little sprinkle adds a nice garlicky punch without overpowering the chicken.
Italian Seasoning: This blend adds depth and aromatic goodness. You can also add a bit of dried oregano or basil if you want a little extra herbaceous flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Simple but essential for bringing all the flavors together!
Olive Oil Spray: Just a light mist to help the breadcrumbs crisp up. I like to use extra virgin olive oil for that lovely flavor.
Is Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish manages to tick several boxes in the health department.
Chicken Breasts: They’re a great source of lean protein, essential for building and repairing muscles. Plus, they’re low in fat if you trim any excess.
Parmesan Cheese: While it does bring some fat to the table, it also provides calcium and protein. Just remember, moderation is key since it can be high in sodium.
Breadcrumbs: Opt for whole grain panko if you’re looking for a healthier version—it’s higher in fiber and more filling than regular white breadcrumbs.
So, while this recipe has some indulgent components, it can still fit into a balanced diet. Just remember to pair it with plenty of colorful veggies or a fresh salad!
Ingredients for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken:
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (serves 2)
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil spray for cooking
How to Make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
1. Begin by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that our chicken will crisp up nicely right from the get-go.
2. In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure even distribution.
3. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, and then coat each breast lightly with olive oil spray. This is important for helping the breadcrumb mixture stick.
4. Dredge each chicken breast in the parmesan mixture, pressing gently to ensure it adheres well. You want that cheesy crust!
5. Place the coated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. If needed, you can work in batches.
6. Air fry for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden and crispy. A cooking thermometer should read 165°F (75°C) when they are done.
7. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before slicing. This helps keep it juicy.
Literally Can’t Go Wrong!
– Feel free to play around with the spices. Some crushed red pepper flakes can add a nice kick, or swap in your favorite spices!
– Serve this chicken with a squeeze of fresh lemon on top for a zesty finish. It pairs beautifully with a side of garlic green beans or a creamy pasta salad.
– You can also use this chicken in wraps or sandwiches the next day. Trust me, it’s just as good cold!
I can’t wait for you to try this Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Grab your air fryer and let the magic happen—trust me, you’ll not only love how easy it is to make, but your family and friends will be asking for your secret recipe! So, get cooking and don’t forget to let me know how yours turns out!
