Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a dish that has quickly become a favorite in our household. The first time I prepared this meal, I was thrilled by how simple it was to make and how delicious the results were. The air fryer gives the chicken a perfectly crispy crust while keeping the inside juicy and tender. My family, including the kids, were all raving about it, asking for seconds and even thirds. The blend of Parmesan and herbs creates a savory flavor profile that truly elevates this dish. It’s a testament to how a few quality ingredients can come together to create something spectacular.
Ingredients
The ingredients for Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken are straightforward and might already be in your pantry. You’ll need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko works best)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Preparing this delightful meal is as easy as it is rewarding. Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Meanwhile, in a shallow bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs. Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated, then dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the coated chicken breasts in the basket, making sure they aren’t touching. You might need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. Cook for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the crust is golden brown.
Nutrition Facts
Each serving of Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is not only tasty but also mindful of nutritional balance. This recipe serves four people, and each serving contains approximately 350 calories. It’s a protein-packed meal that offers a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken, with significantly less oil and fat.
Preparation Time
The beauty of this recipe lies in its efficiency. From start to finish, you can have this meal ready in just about 30 minutes. This includes 10 minutes of prep time to gather and prepare your ingredients, and 20 minutes of cooking time. It’s perfect for a quick weekday dinner when time is of the essence but you still want to enjoy a home-cooked meal.
How to Serve
When serving Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken, consider these delightful accompaniments:
- Serve with a fresh green salad: The crispness of lettuce and the tanginess of a vinaigrette complement the richness of the chicken beautifully.
- Pair with roasted vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus make a colorful and nutritious side.
- Offer a side of mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes balance the savory crunch of the chicken.
- Add a dipping sauce: A side of marinara or a creamy garlic aioli can enhance the flavors.
- Include crusty bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread can be a perfect addition to soak up any extra flavors on the plate.
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips to ensure your Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken turns out perfectly:
- Pat the chicken dry: Before coating, ensure the chicken is dry to help the egg and breadcrumb mixture adhere better.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer: Leaving space between each piece allows the hot air to circulate, ensuring even cooking.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan: Freshly grated cheese melts and adheres better than pre-packaged varieties.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to add more herbs or spices to suit your preferences.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
FAQ Section
Here are some frequently asked questions about this recipe:
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, chicken thighs can be used, but adjust the cooking time as they may take longer to cook.
- What if I don’t have an air fryer? You can bake the chicken in an oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- How can I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer to retain crispiness.
- Can I make this dish gluten-free? Substitute the breadcrumbs with a gluten-free version and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free.
- What other cheeses can I use? Romano or Asiago can be used for a different but equally delicious flavor profile.