Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a simple, golden delight with a crunchy, cheesy crust that makes every bite satisfying. The parmesan adds a rich, slightly nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the juicy chicken inside, while the air fryer keeps things crispy without the extra oil.
I love making this chicken on busy weeknights because it comes together so quickly and feels like a treat. The crispy coating holds up well, which means it’s great for leftovers too, if you happen to have any. My secret tip is to use a mix of parmesan and a little bit of Italian seasoning in the crust for an extra bit of flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Serving this chicken with a fresh green salad or roasted veggies is my favorite way to keep things light and balanced. Sometimes I’ll even add a squeeze of lemon on top for a bright finish. This recipe is a go-to for me when I want dinner to be both easy and delicious, and I’m pretty sure it’ll become one of your favorites too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: I like using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their convenience and quick cooking. If you want more flavor, try chicken thighs—they stay juicy but may need a slightly longer cook time.
Parmesan cheese: Parmesan is key for that sharp, nutty crust. If you can’t find Parmesan, Pecorino Romano works well too—it’s a bit saltier but delicious. Avoid pre-grated cheese with additives; freshly grated tastes best.
Panko breadcrumbs: Panko gives extra crunch thanks to its airy texture. You can substitute regular breadcrumbs, but expect a softer crust. For a low-carb option, crushed pork rinds or almond meal can work.
Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning add depth to the crust. Feel free to customize the herbs based on what you like—dried thyme, rosemary, or smoked paprika brings different flavors.
Eggs & oil: Eggs help the coating stick, and a little oil or melted butter on top of the crust helps crispness in the air fryer. You can use olive oil spray to keep it lighter if preferred.
How Can I Get the Chicken Extra Crispy in the Air Fryer?
Getting a crispy crust without deep frying can feel tricky, but the air fryer makes it easy! Here’s my go-to method for crispiness:
- Flatten the chicken cutlets evenly for quick, even cooking.
- Double-dip in egg and crumbs to build a thicker crust that crisps nicely.
- Lightly brush or spray the crust with oil before air frying—it helps create that golden crunch.
- Place chicken in a single layer without overlap so air circulates well.
- Flip halfway to brown both sides evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if needed.
Following these steps helps you get a crust that’s crisp and golden, while the chicken stays juicy inside. It’s a great alternative if you want fried textures but less mess and fat!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – I prefer it because it gives a crispy crust with less oil and quick cook times.
- Mixing bowls – one for the eggs and one for the breadcrumb mixture, making breading easy.
- Shallow dish or plate – for coating the chicken with the Parmesan breadcrumb mix.
- Tongs or a fork – to handle the chicken pieces without messing up the coating.
- Cooking spray or drizzle of olive oil – helps the crust turn golden and crispy in the air fryer.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap Italian seasoning for smoked paprika or chili powder to add some smoky or spicy kick.
- Add grated mozzarella or shredded cheddar on top during the last few minutes for melty, cheesy edges.
- Mix in chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley into the breadcrumb mixture for a fresh flavor boost.
- Use different proteins, like turkey cutlets or pork chops, for variety while keeping the same crispy crust.
Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: lemon wedges (for serving)
- Optional dipping sauce: ranch or garlic mayo
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparing and breading the chicken will take about 10 minutes. Air frying takes another 10 to 12 minutes. Altogether, you’ll need roughly 20 to 25 minutes from start to finish, making this a quick and easy dinner option.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken:
If your chicken breasts are thick, slice them horizontally to create thinner pieces around half an inch thick. This helps them cook evenly and quickly in the air fryer.
2. Setting Up the Breading Station:
In one shallow bowl, whisk the eggs well. In a separate bowl, combine grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Coating the Chicken:
Dip each chicken piece first into the eggs, letting any extra drip off, then press it firmly into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture to coat both sides fully. For an extra crunchy crust, repeat dipping once more in the egg and breadcrumbs.
4. Air Frying:
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes. Lightly brush or spray the coated chicken with olive oil or melted butter to help it crisp up. Place the chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not overlap. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the crust turns golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Garnishing and Serving:
Once cooked, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the chicken. Serve immediately with optional lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or garlic mayo.
This recipe delivers a crisp, flavorful Parmesan crust with juicy chicken inside, all without the mess and extra oil of frying. Enjoy your tasty meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to fully thaw them in the fridge overnight before breading and air frying. This ensures even cooking and a crispy crust.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes to help keep the crust crispy.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cereal to keep the crunch without gluten.
What Can I Serve with Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
This chicken pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of pasta or rice to soak up any dipping sauce. A squeeze of lemon also brightens the flavors!