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Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken Breast

crispy air fryer parmesan chicken breast - featured image

This crispy air fryer Parmesan chicken breast is a weeknight lifesaver—perfectly crunchy, juicy, and ready in under 30 minutes. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like a kitchen rockstar with almost zero effort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Olive oil spray
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
  • Lemon wedges for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep the chicken: Place chicken breasts on a cutting board, cover with plastic wrap, and pound to an even thickness of about 3/4 inch. Pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Set up dredging station: In first bowl, mix flour with 1/4 teaspoon salt and a pinch of pepper. In second bowl, whisk eggs and milk. In third bowl, combine panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt, and pepper.
  3. Season chicken: Sprinkle both sides of chicken with extra salt and pepper.
  4. Dredge chicken: Coat each breast in flour, shake off excess. Dip in egg wash, let drip. Press into panko-Parmesan mixture, covering completely. Place on plate and repeat.
  5. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  6. Spray air fryer basket with olive oil spray.
  7. Place chicken in basket in single layer, not overcrowding. Spray tops lightly with oil.
  8. Air fry at 375°F for 10 minutes. Flip, spray other side, and cook 6-10 more minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  9. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
  10. Garnish with parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

Don’t skip pounding the chicken for even cooking. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best results. Press coating firmly onto chicken. Don’t overcrowd the air fryer. Spray with oil for golden color. Check temperature early to avoid overcooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken, Parmesan chicken, crispy chicken breast, easy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner