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Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan - Crispy, Juicy, and Easy

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 to 1.25 pounds total), halved horizontally into 4 cutlets
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
  • Olive oil spray or avocado oil spray
  • 3/4 to 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 4 ounces low-moisture mozzarella, shredded or sliced
  • Fresh basil leaves, torn (optional)
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)

Method
 

  1. Prep the chicken: Slice each chicken breast horizontally to make 2 thinner cutlets. Place between two sheets of parchment and gently pound to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch. Pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Season: In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano. Sprinkle evenly over both sides of the chicken.
  3. Set up the dredging station: Place the flour in one shallow bowl. In a second bowl, whisk the eggs with the water. In a third bowl, combine panko, Parmesan, and paprika.
  4. Coat the chicken: Dredge each cutlet lightly in flour, shaking off excess. Dip in the egg mixture, letting extra drip off. Press into the panko mixture, coating both sides. Set on a plate.
  5. Preheat the air fryer: Heat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3 to 5 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with oil.
  6. Air fry the chicken: Arrange cutlets in a single layer with space between them. Lightly spray tops with oil. Cook for 6 to 7 minutes, flip, spray again, and cook another 5 to 6 minutes until golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  7. Add sauce and cheese: Spoon 1 to 2 tablespoons marinara over each cutlet. Top with mozzarella. Air fry at 360°F (182°C) for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles.
  8. Finish and serve: Sprinkle with extra Parmesan, basil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like. Serve immediately over cooked spaghetti, on a toasted roll, or with roasted vegetables.