Ingredients and preparation
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
- Olive oil spray
Preparation:
- Start by preparing the chicken breasts. If they are thick, slice them in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets. This will help them cook evenly in the air fryer.
- In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
- In another shallow dish, beat the eggs until smooth. This will be used to help the breadcrumb mixture adhere to the chicken.
- Dip each chicken cutlet into the beaten eggs, making sure it is fully coated. Allow any excess egg to drip off before moving to the next step.
- Press the egg-coated chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring both sides are evenly coated. Gently press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to help them stick better.
- Once all the chicken cutlets are breaded, lightly spray both sides with olive oil spray. This will help them achieve a golden, crispy texture in the air fryer.
Cooking instructions
Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and achieves a crispy exterior.
- Once preheated, place the breaded chicken cutlets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure not to overcrowd the basket; if necessary, cook the chicken in batches to avoid overlapping, which can prevent even cooking.
- Cook the chicken cutlets for 10 minutes, then carefully flip them over using tongs. This will help both sides become evenly crispy.
- After flipping, cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, spoon about 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce onto each cutlet, spreading it evenly over the top.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese over the marinara sauce on each cutlet.
- Return the chicken to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Carefully remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a minute or two before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and makes the dish easier to handle.
Serving suggestions
When it comes to serving your Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan, presentation and pairing are key to elevating this classic dish. Here are some suggestions to make your meal truly memorable:
- Garnish with Fresh Basil: Just before serving, add a few fresh basil leaves on top of the melted mozzarella. The vibrant green color and aromatic flavor of the basil will complement the rich marinara sauce and cheesy topping, adding a fresh note to the dish.
- Serve with Pasta: A traditional pairing for Chicken Parmesan is a side of pasta. Spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne tossed in a light marinara or garlic butter sauce works beautifully. The pasta helps to soak up any extra sauce from the chicken, making each bite even more satisfying.
- Include a Side Salad: Balance the richness of the Chicken Parmesan with a crisp, refreshing salad. A simple Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and a tangy dressing is a classic choice. Alternatively, a mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a nice contrast to the hearty main dish.
- Garlic Bread: Serve your Chicken Parmesan with a side of warm, buttery garlic bread. The crispy, garlicky bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover marinara sauce on your plate.
- Wine Pairing: If you’re serving wine, a medium-bodied red like Chianti or a Sangiovese pairs wonderfully with the tomato sauce and cheese. For white wine lovers, a crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc can also complement the dish without overpowering it.
- Family-Style Serving: If you’re serving a crowd, consider presenting the Chicken Parmesan on a large platter with the pasta and sauce arranged around the chicken. This makes for an impressive centerpiece and allows everyone to serve themselves.
- Leftover Ideas: If you have any leftovers, consider making a Chicken Parmesan sandwich. Simply place a cutlet on a toasted roll, add some extra marinara sauce, and top with a bit more mozzarella. Pop it under the broiler for a minute to melt the cheese, and you’ve got a delicious, easy lunch for the next day.
With these serving suggestions, your Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan will not only taste amazing but also look and feel like a restaurant-quality meal. Enjoy!