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Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is shown as a close-up featured image displaying its golden-brown, crispy coating.

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

This recipe delivers perfectly crispy and juicy parmesan-crusted chicken using an air fryer. A buttermilk soak and panko breadcrumbs are key to achieving the ideal texture and flavor without excess oil. This method is quick, easy, and consistently produces delicious results.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 22 minutes
Total Time 42 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 6-8 ounces each
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • mixing bowls
  • Shallow dishes
  • whisk
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • tongs
  • Thermometer

Method
 

  1. In a bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  2. Submerge the chicken breasts in the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
  3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours).
  4. In a shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, flour, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well.
  5. Place the beaten eggs in a separate shallow dish.
  6. Remove a chicken breast from the buttermilk mixture, allowing excess to drip off.
  7. Dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it's fully coated.
  8. Dredge the chicken in the parmesan crust mixture, pressing gently to help the crumbs adhere. Make sure the entire surface is covered.
  9. Repeat with the remaining chicken breasts.
  10. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes.
  11. Lightly grease the air fryer basket with olive oil or cooking spray.
  12. Place the breaded chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd. If necessary, cook in batches.
  13. Drizzle each chicken breast with a little olive oil (about 1/2 tablespoon per breast).
  14. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, then flip the chicken breasts and continue cooking for another 8-10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  15. Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking. Resting the chicken before serving allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken and the air fryer model. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best results.