What To Know
- In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the simple steps of how to make chicken parmesan in your air fryer, ensuring a delicious and healthier meal.
- Return the chicken to the air fryer and air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- A fresh and light salad provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the chicken parmesan.
Craving the classic flavors of chicken parmesan without the guilt? Look no further than your air fryer! This innovative kitchen appliance allows you to create a crispy and golden chicken parmesan that rivals traditional deep-fried versions. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the simple steps of how to make chicken parmesan in your air fryer, ensuring a delicious and healthier meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Cut the chicken into 1-inch thick cutlets.
2. Create the Breading Station
- In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
- In another shallow bowl, whisk the eggs.
- In a third shallow bowl, place the flour.
3. Bread the Chicken
- Dredge the chicken cutlets in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, coating completely.
- Finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring a generous coating.
4. Air Fry the Chicken
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the breaded chicken cutlets in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Add the Marinara Sauce
- Remove the chicken from the air fryer and spread a layer of marinara sauce on top of each cutlet.
6. Top with Mozzarella
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the marinara sauce.
7. Air Fry Again
- Return the chicken to the air fryer and air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips for Success
- For extra crispy chicken, double-coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture.
- If you don’t have Italian-style breadcrumbs, you can use plain breadcrumbs and add your own herbs and spices.
- To ensure even cooking, shake the air fryer basket halfway through the cooking time.
- Serve the chicken parmesan immediately with your favorite sides, such as pasta, garlic bread, or salad.
Variations
- Chicken Parmesan with Spinach and Artichoke: Add a layer of sautéed spinach and artichoke hearts to the chicken before adding the marinara sauce.
- Chicken Parmesan with Alfredo Sauce: Replace the marinara sauce with Alfredo sauce for a creamy and indulgent twist.
- Chicken Parmesan with Roasted Vegetables: Roast your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini, peppers, or onions, and add them on top of the chicken before adding the cheese.
Health Benefits of Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
Compared to traditional deep-fried chicken parmesan, air fryer versions offer several health benefits:
- Lower in Calories: Air fryers use little to no oil, significantly reducing the calorie content.
- Less Fat: Air frying eliminates excess fat, making the chicken parmesan a healthier choice.
- Reduced Cholesterol: By removing excess fat, air fryer chicken parmesan is lower in cholesterol than deep-fried versions.
The Perfect Pairing
Chicken parmesan is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider the following options to complement your meal:
- Pasta: Spaghetti, penne, or fettuccine are classic choices for chicken parmesan.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is a delicious accompaniment to soak up the marinara sauce.
- Salad: A fresh and light salad provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the chicken parmesan.
What You Need to Know
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
A: Yes, but thaw the chicken breasts completely before breading and cooking.
Q: How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
A: Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. It should read 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked.
Q: Can I make chicken parmesan ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can bread the chicken and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before air frying. When ready to cook, bring the chicken to room temperature before air frying as directed.
