Go Back
Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken, golden brown and crispy, is displayed as a delicious featured image.
Lady Maria

Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken

Enjoy crispy and flavorful Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken in minutes! This easy recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken with a golden-brown, cheesy crust, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, about 4-6 breasts
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs panko or Italian-style
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons milk or water
  • Cooking spray

Equipment

  • air fryer
  • Meat mallet or rolling pin
  • Plastic wrap or zip-top bag
  • small bowl
  • Two shallow dishes
  • whisk
  • Plate or baking sheet
  • Cooking spray
  • meat thermometer

Method
 

  1. Pound chicken breasts to an even 1/2-inch thickness.
  2. Combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt in a small bowl.
  3. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
  4. In a shallow dish, combine Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, flour, dried Italian herbs, garlic powder, and black pepper.
  5. In another shallow dish, whisk together eggs and milk (or water).
  6. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  7. Dip each chicken breast into the egg wash, letting excess drip off.
  8. Immediately transfer the chicken to the Parmesan mixture, pressing firmly to coat both sides.
  9. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
  10. Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, cooking in batches if needed.
  11. Air fry for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is golden brown and crispy. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  12. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
  13. Garnish with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Notes

For even cooking, ensure chicken breasts are of consistent thickness. If the Parmesan mixture doesn't stick well, add a tablespoon of mayonnaise to the egg wash. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket for crispy chicken. Preheating the air fryer is crucial. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. For variations, add red pepper flakes, different dried herbs, a blend of Parmesan and Romano cheese, lemon zest, or more garlic to the Parmesan mixture.