Healthy and Easy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

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One of my favorite things in life is an easy, delicious meal for those busy weeknights the whole family enjoys. Crispy, golden-brown, and super moist air fryer parmesan crusted chicken not only satisfies the “fried chicken” craving but is incredibly juicy.

It’s the perfect balance of crunch and flavor, and the best part it’s ready in about 30 minutes. This easy recipe is a healthier way to enjoy traditional parmesan chicken taste and crunch without all the fat and calories.

Let’s Talk About Chicken Brine😉

Let’s face it, chicken by itself is not the most delicious source of protein. If you have the time, brine! Brined chicken is the only way to go when cooking or grilling a whole piece of chicken or a whole chicken. 

Grilled chicken pieces: Dry brine is a combination of salt and seasoning sprinkled liberally all over the chicken a couple of hours ahead of grilling time. This is especially good if you like crispy skin. 

Boneless skinless chicken pieces: Wet brine is my preferred choice for boneless chicken pieces. I used 4 cups of water and 1 tablespoon of course salt and 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning in this recipe. 

Whole chicken: The amount of water, salt and spices depends on how big the chicken is, but the whole chicken needs to be completely submerged in water. I use 8 cups of water to 1/4 cup of course salt as a base.

You’ll Love This Air Fried Parmesan Chicken Recipe

✔️ Quick & Easy – Ready in less than 30 minutes for a no fuss, easy dinner.
✔️ Healthier Alternative – Crispy with no oil used except spray oil.
✔️ Packed with Flavor – Brined boneless chicken breast makes this dish unforgettable.
✔️ Easy Cleanup – Cooking in an air fryer basket makes cleanup quick and easy. Use an air fryer liner for even easier cleanup!

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Ingredients:

(Serves 2-4)

• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (or 4 chicken cutlets). Preferably brined a head of time.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup panko bread crumbs or regular breadcrumbs 
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp paprika or cayenne pepper
• ½ tsp salt, note: if you brine the chicken breast skip the salt in the coating.
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ cup mayonnaise or an egg wash of 2 well beaten eggs.
• Cooking spray

Easy Recipe Instructions:

•  Step 1: Brine 2 whole chicken breasts in a large, deep bowl with 4 cups of water and 1 tablespoon of course salt and 1 tablespoon of Italian spices. Cover with plastic wrap or lid and refrigerate for 2 hours or overnight.
  • Drain the brine off the chicken breasts, bring to room temperature, and dry with paper towels. Either slice them in half horizontally to create thin cutlets or cut vertically through the middle of each breast and pound with a meat mallet in between plastic wrap or parchment paper.
  • I prefer pounding…it gives me joy😊 Have you ever tried to slice a slippery chicken breast horizontally? 

Brining is an extra, do ahead step but well worth it. If you don’t have time to brine, no worries.

•  Step 2: In a shallow dish like a pie plate, combine grated parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika or cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Note: if you brine the chicken breast, don’t add salt to the coating mix.
• Step 3: Place 1 cup of mayo in a medium bowl. Using tongs or a fork, dredge chicken pieces in the mayonnaise making sure all the chicken surfaces are coated. Place coated breast pieces in the dry parmesan breadcrumb mixture. Press down each side for coating to adhere. 
• Step 4: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place coated chicken pieces inside in a single layer, with space in between each piece. Note: do not overcrowd the pieces, cook in batches if needed.

• Air fry for 13-15 minutes. halfway through, check top golden brown color. Flip to other side and continue cooking for 7 to 8 minutes and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). 

• Step 5: Let the chicken rest for a minute before serving. Pair it with a steamed broccoli, fresh salad, or roasted veggies. Add a side of your favorite marinara or ranch dip for more delicious favor.

Recipe Tips

⭐ Brine chicken ahead of time for maximum flavor and juicy chicken breasts. 

⭐ Don’t overcrowd the air fryer, leave space between pieces for even airflow.

⭐ Use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crispier crust than regular breadcrumbs.

Recipe Options

• Chicken tenders: Instead of using whole chicken breasts, use chicken tenders for crispy, parmesan chicken tenders.
• Healthier Italian food: This recipe is the base for traditional chicken parmesan. Spread a tablespoon of marinara sauce along with a few tablespoons of grated mozzarella cheese on top of done chicken. Air fry for an additional 2 minutes.
• Salad topper: Bite sized pieces of parmesan crusted chicken along with crispy bacon bits and some grated cheddar cheese on top of a green salad is one of my all-time favorite meals. Serve with easy homemade ranch dressing or homemade blue cheese dressing for extra goodness!

Leftover Storage Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This dish will not freeze well.

More Chicken Recipes You’ll Love👇

Simple and No Carb Spicy Chicken Tenders

Delicious, Healthy, Easy Chicken Salad

Easy Old Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings

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