Can we just take a moment to appreciate the fact that crispy, golden chicken can be made without a drop of oil? Yep, your air fryer can work that kind of magic. This air fried chicken parmesan tastes just like the classic version, but without the stovetop mess and with way less effort.

You probably already know that the air fryer is basically a kitchen superhero. It turns appetizers, main courses, and everything in between crispy and golden, often faster than it even takes your oven to preheat too! So when I’m craving chicken Parmesan but don’t want a greasy cleanup, this is the new go-to. It’s just as flavorful as the traditional recipe, but so much easier to make.
Ingredients
- 2 (8-oz.) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan
- 2 tsp. dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 2 cup shredded mozzarella
- Chopped fresh parsley, for serving
Directions
Step 1
Carefully butterfly your chicken by slicing each piece in half widthwise to create four thin cutlets. Then, season both sides with salt and black pepper. This is a simple step, but essential for flavor.
Step 2
Set up your breading station next. In your first shallow bowl, season the flour with a pinch of salt and a few grinds of black pepper. For shallow bowl #2, beat your eggs so they’re ready for dipping. Last but not least, shallow bowl #3. Mix together panko, Parmesan, oregano, red pepper flakes, and garlic powder.
Step 3
Finally, time to bread! Working one piece at a time, coat the chicken in flour first (shake off the excess), then dip into the eggs, letting any extra drip off. Afterwards, press the chicken into the panko mixture so both sides are well coated.
Step 4
Spray your air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray and arrange the chicken in a single layer. Cook at 400°F, flipping once, until the chicken is just cooked through, about 5 minutes or so per side. Top each piece with marinara sauce and mozzarella, then pop it back in the air fryer for 3 more minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly to golden perfection.
Step 5
Plate your chicken, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately. Congratulations! You’ve got a golden, cheesy, air fried chicken parmesan that’s ready to impress!
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