Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

Air fryer chicken parmesan recipe with crispy coating and melted cheese. An easy homemade dinner made in the air fryer.

I chose to make this air fryer chicken parmesan because I wanted a comforting dinner that felt familiar but lighter and easier to manage on a busy evening. At this point in life, I enjoy meals that deliver flavor without a long cleanup. Using the air fryer keeps things simple and reliable.

What I enjoy most about this recipe is how crisp the chicken turns out while staying juicy inside. The sauce and melted cheese add comfort without feeling heavy. It feels like a proper home cooked meal without needing to turn on the oven.

When I served this to my family, the plates came back clean and quiet, which always tells me more than compliments. It works well for weeknights but still feels special enough for company. This one quickly earned a regular spot in our rotation.

Questions You May Have About This Recipe

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts
Yes. Boneless skinless thighs work well and stay very tender.

Does this get crispy in the air fryer
Yes. The coating crisps nicely without frying in oil.

Can I make this ahead of time
You can bread the chicken earlier and cook just before serving.

What type of sauce works best
A simple marinara with balanced acidity works well.

Can I reheat leftovers
Yes. Reheat in the air fryer for the best texture.

What You Need to Make Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts

1 cup Italian style breadcrumbs

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

2 large eggs

1 cup marinara sauce

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

2 tablespoons olive oil spray

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

Preheat the air fryer to 375 degrees F.

Slice chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner pieces.

In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

In another bowl, beat the eggs.

Dip each piece of chicken into the egg, then coat fully in the breadcrumb mixture.

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray.

Place chicken in a single layer.

Cook for 8 minutes, then flip and cook for another 5 minutes until golden.

Top each piece with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.

Cook for 3 minutes until the cheese melts.

Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Tips

Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket.

Use thin chicken pieces for even cooking.

Let the chicken rest for 2 minutes before serving.

Reheat leftovers in the air fryer for best texture.

Reader Reviews

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Crispy without frying and full of flavor. This is a keeper.” Diane R

⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Easy enough for a weeknight and still felt like a treat.” Mark S

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “My husband asked for this again the next night.” Linda J

⭐⭐⭐⭐ “The air fryer made cleanup so easy.” Carol W

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Perfect balance of crispy chicken and melted cheese.” Susan M

Printable Recipe

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