If you’re craving a crispy, golden chicken with a rich flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture, this Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is the answer! Using the air fryer makes this dish healthier than deep-frying while keeping the satisfying crunch you love. The combination of seasoned breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese creates a crust that’s packed with flavor, making every bite irresistible.
I love how easy it is to make this dish. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your rotation. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to make this simple yet delicious dish!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken breasts: Chicken breasts are the star of the dish. Their lean, tender texture makes them perfect for getting crispy on the outside while staying juicy on the inside when cooked in the air fryer. For the best results, choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts to make the coating adhere better and cook more evenly.
Parmesan cheese: Parmesan cheese adds an unmistakable nutty and savory flavor to the crust. When grated finely, it gives a beautiful, golden color and crispy texture. Freshly grated Parmesan works best to enhance the flavor and provide a crunchier coating.
Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs act as the base of the coating, giving it structure and crunch. I recommend using panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crispier finish, but regular breadcrumbs will work just as well.
Garlic powder: Garlic powder brings in that savory, aromatic depth of flavor. It complements the chicken and Parmesan perfectly and makes the crust even more irresistible.
Dried oregano: Dried oregano adds a touch of Mediterranean flavor to the dish. It pairs wonderfully with the Parmesan and garlic, making every bite taste even more delicious.
Egg: An egg serves as the binder for the breading. It helps the breadcrumbs and Parmesan adhere to the chicken, creating a beautiful, even crust when air fried.
Olive oil spray: Olive oil spray is essential for getting that perfect golden crisp on the crust. It ensures the chicken doesn’t dry out while providing an extra crunch on the outside.
Ingredients List
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 large egg
- Olive oil spray
How to Make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the chicken
Begin by rinsing the chicken breasts and patting them dry with paper towels. This helps ensure that the coating sticks well. Trim any excess fat and lightly season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 2: Make the breading
In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and dried oregano. Mix everything together until well incorporated.
Step 3: Coat the chicken
Crack the egg into a separate shallow bowl and beat it lightly. Dip each chicken breast into the egg, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, dredge the chicken in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to ensure an even coating on all sides.
Step 4: Air fry the chicken
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes. Once it’s ready, lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Place the coated chicken breasts in the basket in a single layer, making sure they aren’t touching. Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 15-18 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through for even crispiness.
Step 5: Serve and enjoy
Once the chicken is golden and crispy on the outside and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), remove it from the air fryer. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair it with your favorite sides, and enjoy your crispy, flavorful chicken!
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Ensure the chicken is dry: Patting the chicken dry before breading ensures that the coating sticks better, leading to a crispier crust.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor and texture. Pre-grated Parmesan may not melt or crisp as well.
- Spray the chicken with olive oil: Don’t skip the olive oil spray! It helps the coating become crispy and golden without drying out the chicken.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: For the best results, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. This allows the hot air to circulate properly and gives you an even, crispy texture.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe? Yes! You can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to thaw them completely before breading to ensure even cooking and crisping.
Can I substitute the breadcrumbs with something else? Yes, if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers instead.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, air fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to restore its crispiness.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can bread the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 4 hours before air frying. This will give the breadcrumbs time to set and enhance the crust.