Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American dish that’s typically prepared by coating chicken cutlets in breadcrumbs, frying them until crispy, and then smothering them in tomato sauce and melted cheese. However, traditional methods of cooking chicken Parmesan can be calorie-dense and time-consuming. But with an air fryer, you can still enjoy this delicious meal without the guilt or hassle. In this post, we’ll provide you with an easy and healthy air fryer chicken Parmesan recipe that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup of tomato sauce
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- Cooking spray
Instructions:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.
- Prepare your chicken breasts by pounding them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- In a separate shallow bowl, whisk the eggs.
- In a third shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the chicken in the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off.
- Coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing the crumbs firmly onto the chicken.
- Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Place the chicken in the basket, making sure there is enough space between each piece to allow air to circulate.
- Spray the chicken with cooking spray.
- Cook the chicken for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and place it on a baking sheet.
- Spoon tomato sauce over each chicken breast.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the tomato sauce.
- Place the baking sheet with the chicken under the broiler in your oven for 1-2 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve the air fryer chicken Parmesan with a side of pasta or vegetables.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness so that they cook evenly in the air fryer.
- Use cooking spray to ensure the chicken doesn’t stick to the air fryer basket.
- If your air fryer is smaller, you may need to cook the chicken in batches.
- Don’t skip the broiling step at the end – it’s what gives the cheese that golden brown and bubbly texture.
Why Use an Air Fryer?
Air fryers are becoming increasingly popular due to their ability to mimic the texture and taste of fried food without the added calories and unhealthy fats. By using hot air circulation, air fryers can produce crispy and golden brown food that’s comparable to traditional frying methods. Additionally, air fryers are generally quicker and less messy than traditional frying, making them a convenient appliance for busy households.
Using an air fryer for chicken Parmesan can also be a healthier option than traditional methods. Fried chicken Parmesan can be loaded with calories and unhealthy fats, but using an air fryer can significantly reduce the amount of oil used in cooking. By cooking the chicken in an air fryer, you can eliminate the need for a deep fryer, making this classic dish a healthier option.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
One of the keys to a delicious chicken Parmesan is choosing the right ingredients. When shopping for ingredients, look for high-quality chicken breasts that are free from added hormones and antibiotics. Additionally, using fresh herbs and spices can elevate the flavors of your dish. If possible, opt for freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-shredded cheese, as it will have a better flavor and texture.
When it comes to tomato sauce, you can either make your own or use a store-bought variety. If you choose to make your own, you can control the ingredients and flavors to your liking. However, if you’re short on time, there are many high-quality store-bought options available.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Parmesan is traditionally served over spaghetti or another type of pasta. However, if you’re looking for a healthier option, you can serve it over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. Both of these options are low in calories and packed with nutrients, making them a great choice for those looking to eat healthier.
Another great way to enjoy chicken Parmesan is to serve it as a sandwich. Simply place the cooked chicken breast between two slices of bread, add some tomato sauce and melted cheese, and grill it on a panini press. This is a delicious and easy way to enjoy this classic dish in a new and creative way.
Final Thoughts
Air fryer chicken Parmesan is a healthy and delicious alternative to traditional fried chicken Parmesan. By using an air fryer, you can achieve a crispy and golden brown crust while significantly reducing the amount of oil used in cooking. Additionally, by choosing high-quality ingredients and serving the dish with healthy sides, you can create a meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy this classic dish in a healthier and more convenient way.
With this easy and healthy air fryer chicken Parmesan recipe, you can indulge in a classic Italian-American dish without feeling guilty or spending hours in the kitchen. By using an air fryer, you can achieve a crispy and golden brown crust on your chicken while reducing the amount of oil used in traditional frying methods. Give this recipe a try, and let us know what you think!