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How to Make Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Start by prepping the chicken breasts (or thighs). If you’re using chicken breasts, consider cutting them in half horizontally to create thinner pieces that cook more evenly. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, which helps the breading stick better. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Make the Breading
In a shallow bowl, combine the grated parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried Italian seasoning. Stir until all ingredients are evenly mixed. This will be your crispy breading mixture.
Step 3: Dip the Chicken
In another shallow bowl, beat the egg. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, transfer the chicken to the breading mixture, pressing gently to make sure the breadcrumbs adhere to both sides of the chicken. Repeat the process for all the chicken pieces.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and crisps up properly.
Step 5: Air Fry the Chicken
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil or brush it with a little oil to prevent sticking. Place the breaded chicken pieces in a single layer in the basket, making sure they’re not overcrowded (you may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer).
Air fry the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. The chicken should be golden and crispy on the outside. To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and ensures the chicken stays juicy.
Serve your crispy parmesan chicken with your favorite sides like a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes. It’s also perfect for serving over pasta or on top of a salad for a satisfying meal.
Tips for Perfect Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs create a lighter, crunchier coating than regular breadcrumbs, giving your chicken that extra crispy texture. If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs can work, but the result may not be as crispy.
- Don’t Skip the Egg Wash: The egg wash helps the breading adhere to the chicken. Make sure each piece is coated in egg before dipping it in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Use Olive Oil or Cooking Spray: Lightly coat the chicken with oil or use cooking spray to help the breading crisp up in the air fryer. This also helps achieve a golden-brown exterior.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Air Fryer: For the crispiest results, ensure that the chicken pieces aren’t touching each other in the air fryer basket. This allows the hot air to circulate properly, ensuring even cooking.
- Check Doneness with a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat.
Why You’ll Love Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken
This crispy parmesan chicken recipe is a total game-changer for those who love a crunchy, flavorful chicken without the hassle of deep frying. The air fryer gives the chicken that crispiness you crave while keeping it tender and juicy on the inside. Plus, the parmesan cheese adds a rich, savory flavor that elevates the dish.
Perfect for busy weeknights or a special weekend meal, this recipe is simple, quick, and customizable to your tastes. You can adjust the seasonings, try different cheeses, or add herbs to make it your own. Whether you serve it with a side of vegetables, pasta, or in a sandwich, this crispy parmesan air fryer chicken is sure to impress.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a healthier, faster, and easier way to make crispy, flavorful chicken, then this Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken recipe is a must-try. The air fryer not only helps you skip the excess oil, but it also gives you that golden, crispy exterior that’s perfectly matched with the juicy and tender chicken inside.
This recipe is perfect for busy nights or when you’re craving something crispy without all the fuss. So grab your air fryer, try this recipe, and enjoy crispy, cheesy, and delicious chicken in just minutes!
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