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Close-up of crispy air fryer chicken parmesan topped with marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, and fresh parsley.

The Perfect Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

This air fryer chicken parmesan is perfectly crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and loaded with rich marinara sauce and melty mozzarella cheese. Made lighter in the air fryer without sacrificing crunch or flavor, this easy Italian-inspired dinner is perfect for busy weeknights and cozy family meals.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 14 minutes
Total Time 24 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts sliced in half lengthwise
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
For Topping
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil lightly brush or spray
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Shallow Bowls

Method
 

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 390°F. Pat chicken dry with paper towels.
  2. Season chicken with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
  3. In one shallow bowl, add beaten eggs. In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese.
  4. Dip each chicken piece into the eggs, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture.
  5. Lightly brush or spray chicken with olive oil.
  6. Arrange chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking.
  7. Spoon marinara sauce over each chicken piece and top with mozzarella cheese.
  8. Return chicken to the air fryer and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes until cheese is melted and chicken reaches 165°F.
  9. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket so the chicken stays crispy on all sides. Freshly grated parmesan helps create a golden crunchy coating with rich savory flavor.