Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan – The Big Man’s World ®

This air fryer chicken parmesan recipe is a quick and easy way to enjoy crispy breaded chicken with a tomato and cheese topping. None of the deep frying is needed. 

Classic chicken parm is one of my all-time favorite dishes, so I’ve always been skeptical whether or not air frying it will live up to its potential. I mean, a signature feature of it is perfectly crispy and crunchy chicken.

Since I’ve air fried other crispy chicken recipes, like fried chicken and chicken nuggets, I was cautiously optimistic, and let’s just say I have a new favorite way to cook my favorite chicken dish. 

Why this recipe works

This is essentially a healthier version of my chicken parmigiana, but in a fraction of the time. Here are some reasons why you’ll love this recipe:

• It’s easy. This recipe comes together in less than 10 minutes and the prep time is minimal. 
• Healthy. Compared to classic deep-fried chicken parmesan, this version has a fraction of the calories and fat.
• Perfect texture. Crispy and crunchy on the outside, moist and juicy chicken in the middle, and topped with rich marinara sauce and melty cheese…what can go wrong?

What I love about this recipe is how authentic it tastes- It seriously reminds me of my parmesan crusted chicken, minus the toppings. You won’t be able to tell that no deep frying has been involved! 

Ingredients needed

For such a fancy-looking recipe, you’ll appreciate the simple ingredient list. Here is what you’ll need:

• Chicken breast fillets. I like to use two large chicken breasts and slice halve them, but you can use four small ones if you prefer.
• Panko breadcrumbs. For that golden and crunchy exterior. If you are following a gluten-free diet, gluten-free panko will also work. 
• Egg. A room temperature egg will help the breading mixture stick to the chicken. 
• Seasonings. I kept things simple with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning (a spice mix featuring basil, rosemary, thyme, and oregano). 
• Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese. The key to the perfectly golden and melted cheese topping is a combination of two cheeses. The parmesan gives it some sharp flavor with the mozzarella gives it some gooey, stretchy perfection. 
• Marinara sauce. I used a store-bought sauce because it’s quick and convenient, but you can use a homemade sauce. Other Italian tomato sauces work well too, like sugo or pomodoro sauce. 
• Cooking spray. To grease the air fryer basket and prevent the chicken from sticking. You can also brush some butter or olive oil to the base instead. 

How to make air fryer chicken parm

Besides prepping the chicken, the air fryer takes care of all the hard work and you’ll have dinner ready in no time!

Step 1- Prep the chicken. Pound the chicken until they are around 1/2 an inch thick.

Step 2- Coat the chicken. In one shallow bowl, add the egg and in a second bowl, add the panko, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Moving quickly, dip the chicken breasts in the egg then the panko mixture. Discard any excess breading. 

Step 3: Air fry the chicken. Put a single layer of your crumbed chicken breasts in the greased air fryer basket and let them air fry for 9 minutes, flipping halfway through. 

Step 4- Add toppings. Pull out the frying basket and spoon a layer of marinara sauce onto the chicken breasts before topping it off with your grated parmesan and mozzarella cheese and air fry for another 2 minutes until the cheese melts and is golden. 

Can I bake this?

While this is an air fryer recipe, you can use a convection oven. Prep the chicken as instructed and place them on a greased baking sheet. Bake at 180C/350F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Now, add the toppings and turn the broil setting on. Broil for 2-3 minutes. 

Recipe tips and variations

• If you want less mess, line the base of the air fryer with parchment paper or air fryer liners. The chicken won’t be as crispy, but it will make clean-up a breeze. 
• Keep an eye on the chicken to ensure it doesn’t overcook. Check the internal temperature of the chicken using an instant-read meat thermometer; once it reaches 165F, it is ready to enjoy.
• Avoid over-crowding the air fryer basket to evenly cook the chicken breasts. If needed, cook in batches.
• Use other cheeses for the topping, including pepper Jack cheese or boccoccini.

Storage instructions

To store. Place leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to five days.

To freeze. Wrap it in foil or use an air-tight container and store the chicken parm in the freezer for up to 6 months.

Reheating. Reheat them in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is sizzling.

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Frequently asked questions