Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Why make this recipe
Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a fantastic dish that combines delicious flavors with a satisfying crunch. It’s an easy meal that cooks quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The air fryer creates that crispy texture without deep frying, keeping it healthier while still being tasty. Plus, it’s a great way to please the whole family!
How to make Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Olive oil spray
Directions
- Pound chicken to ½-inch thickness and pat dry.
- Beat eggs in a shallow bowl with a pinch of salt.
- In another bowl, combine panko, Parmesan, and all seasonings.
- Dip each chicken piece in the egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F for 3–5 minutes.
- Spray both sides of the chicken lightly with oil.
- Place chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 10 minutes, flip, and cook another 5–7 minutes until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Let rest for 3 minutes before serving.
How to serve Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken
You can serve this dish with a side of fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or your favorite dipping sauce. It’s great as a main course or sliced over a bed of greens for a hearty salad.
How to store Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to three days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain the crispy texture.
Tips to make Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Make sure to pound the chicken evenly. This helps it cook evenly.
- Don’t skip the oil spray; it’s key for a crispy exterior.
- Feel free to add your favorite spices to the breadcrumb mixture for a personalized flavor.
Variation
You can easily swap out the Parmesan cheese for another cheese, like mozzarella or cheddar, if you prefer. You can also add herbs like parsley or basil for extra flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw them before following the recipe.
Can I make this without an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked?
Use an instant-read thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption.

Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Pound chicken to ½-inch thickness and pat dry.
- Beat eggs in a shallow bowl with a pinch of salt.
- In another bowl, combine panko, Parmesan, and all seasonings.
- Dip each chicken piece in the egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F for 3–5 minutes.
- Spray both sides of the chicken lightly with oil.
- Place chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 10 minutes, flip, and cook another 5–7 minutes until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Let rest for 3 minutes before serving.
