Description
This Quick Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a family-favorite, quick, and easy weeknight meal. It features tender, juicy chicken coated in a glorious golden parmesan crust, air-fried for a satisfying crunch without the guilt of deep-frying. Fast, versatile, and a healthier take on classic fried chicken, it's loved by even picky eaters.
Ingredients
2 (about 1.5 lbs total) Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup All-purpose flour
2 Large eggs
1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Garlic powder
1/2 tsp Onion powder
1 tsp Dried Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp Salt
1/4 tsp Black pepper
As needed Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Pat chicken dry and pound to about 3/4-inch even thickness
- Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour, salt, and pepper; one with beaten eggs; and one with panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess
- Next, dip in egg, letting excess drip
- Finally, coat generously in the panko-Parmesan mixture, pressing to adhere
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C)
- Spray the basket with olive oil
- Place crusted chicken in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding (you may need to cook in batches)
- Lightly spray the tops of the chicken with olive oil
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, then flip and spray the other side
- Cook for another 5-8 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C)
Notes
Always preheat your air fryer for even cooking and extra crispiness.
Do not overcrowd the basket; air circulation is key for a perfect crunchy crust.
Pounding chicken breasts evenly ensures consistent cooking.
A light spray of olive oil on the coated chicken helps achieve a beautiful golden-brown color and incredible crispiness.
Use an instant-read thermometer to confirm 165°F (74°C) internal temperature.
Let the chicken rest a few minutes after cooking to keep it wonderfully juicy.
Store any remaining chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To reheat, preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway, until heated through. Avoid the microwave to maintain crispness.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free panko and almond flour instead of all-purpose flour.
To prevent the cheese from burning, ensure your air fryer is at 375°F (190°C), check and flip periodically, and use a light oil spray. If browning too quickly, slightly reduce the temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: chicken, air fryer, parmesan, crispy, weeknight