Discover the best Italian recipe for your air fryer with our Crispy Italian Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan. This dish brings the classic flavors of Italy to your kitchen in a healthier way, using an air fryer to achieve a perfectly crispy coating without all the oil. It’s quick, delicious, and sure to become a family favorite.
Inspiring Quote
“Good food is the foundation of genuine happiness.” – Auguste Escoffier
Recipe Description
Crispy Italian Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan offers a modern twist on a beloved classic. By using the air fryer, you get a golden, crunchy coating on the chicken while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, this dish delivers all the flavors you love with a fraction of the fat and calories. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a quick and satisfying meal without compromising on taste.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Olive oil spray
Procedure
- Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create four thinner pieces. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bread the Chicken: Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls. Place the flour in the first bowl. Beat the eggs in the second bowl. In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour, dip in the egg, and coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Arrange the breaded chicken pieces in a single layer in the basket, leaving space between each piece. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Spoon marinara sauce over each piece of chicken, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella. Air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.
Conclusion
Enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness of Italian Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan. This dish delivers all the comfort and flavor of traditional Chicken Parmesan but in a healthier, faster way thanks to the air fryer.
Additional Notes
- Region of Origin: Inspired by traditional Italian cuisine, adapted for modern cooking methods.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best results.
- Tips and Tricks: For extra crispiness, spray a light coat of olive oil on the chicken before and after flipping. Serve with spaghetti or a side salad for a complete meal.
Beverage Pairings
Pair this dish with a light Italian red wine such as Chianti or a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio. For non-alcoholic options, try a sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime.
Common Questions and Answers
- Can I use panko breadcrumbs instead of Italian breadcrumbs?
- Yes, panko breadcrumbs will add extra crunch to the chicken. You can mix them with Italian seasoning for added flavor.
- How can I make this dish gluten-free?
- Substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- What if I don’t have an air fryer?
- You can bake the breaded chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.
Try our Italian Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan recipe and share your thoughts in the comments below!
