Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan delivers all the crispy, cheesy goodness of the classic Italian-American dish with less oil and faster cooking time. The chicken turns out juicy on the inside and golden-crisp on the outside, topped with tangy marinara and gooey melted cheese. It’s a satisfying, healthier twist on a comfort food favorite—perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless skinless chicken breastssalt and black peppereggsbreadcrumbsgrated Parmesan cheeseItalian seasoninggarlic powderolive oil sprayshredded mozzarella cheesemarinara saucefresh basil (optional, for garnish)

directions

Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness and season with salt and pepper.

In one bowl, beat the eggs. In another, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.

Dip each chicken breast in the egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3 minutes.

Lightly spray both sides of the breaded chicken with olive oil spray.

Place the chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Top each piece with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella. Return to the air fryer and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2-4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 12-15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
Add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara for a spicy kick.
Swap mozzarella for provolone or a cheese blend.
Serve over zucchini noodles for a low-carb version.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes or until warmed through.
Avoid microwaving to preserve crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless thighs work well and remain juicy.

Do I need to pre-cook the marinara sauce?
No, just use a good-quality jarred sauce or homemade if preferred.

How do I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your marinara sauce is gluten-free.

Can I freeze Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan?
Yes, freeze after cooking and before adding cheese/sauce. Reheat and finish in the air fryer.

Do I need to flip the chicken while air frying?
Yes, flipping ensures even browning and crispiness.

Can I add extra cheese?
Absolutely! Add as much as you like, just don’t overload to avoid sogginess.

What sides go well with this dish?
Try garlic bread, spaghetti, Caesar salad, or steamed veggies.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan brings together crispy texture, bold flavor, and melty cheese in a healthier, faster way. It’s a delicious way to enjoy a beloved classic without turning on the oven. Once you try it, it may just become a weeknight favorite.