Name: Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 chicken breast (sliced into 2 thin cutlets); 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 egg; salt; pepper; olive oil (or cooking spray)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving something crispy, juicy, and seriously satisfying, this Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken delivers every single time. The magic happens in minutes: you get irresistibly golden, cheesy-crunchy crust (thank you, parmesan and panko!), all while keeping the chicken tender inside. With just a handful of staple ingredients and the surprise speed of the air fryer, this dish feels like the ultimate weeknight dinner treat, every bit as impressive as it is easy. Trust me—once you bite into this flavor-packed chicken, you’ll have a new favorite in your rotation.

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about how simple but key these ingredients are. Each one adds its own magic, from the savory parmesan to the crispy panko. Every detail brings out the juicy, cheesy, golden perfection in your Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken.

Chicken breast: Slicing the breast into thin cutlets makes for quicker, even cooking and extra juicy bites.
Panko breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs bring that signature crunch and lightness.
Grated parmesan cheese: The nutty, salty cheese forms a gorgeous crust and loads of flavor.
Dried oregano: Just a bit ramps up the chicken with Italian-inspired aroma and earthiness.
Garlic powder: Adds mellow, savory depth and really wakes up all the other ingredients.
Egg: Helps the panko-parmesan coating stick firmly to each piece of chicken.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors, so each bite is perfectly seasoned.
Pepper: A little bit gives just the right touch of warmth and zip.
Olive oil or cooking spray: Keeps the crust golden and helps prevent sticking in the air fryer.

How to Make Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Give your air fryer a quick preheat to 400 degrees F—about 5 minutes is perfect. This extra step ensures the chicken starts crisping up immediately, locking in the juices and helping the parmesan panko crust get extra golden and crunchy.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Cutlets

Take your chicken breast and slice it in half, lengthwise, to create two thin cutlets. This not only helps them cook faster but ensures you get the best possible crust-to-chicken ratio! Sprinkle each cutlet with salt and pepper on both sides. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it makes every bite taste amazing.

Step 3: Make the Parmesan Panko Coating

In a shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, dried oregano, and garlic powder. Give it a good stir—this is where the magic starts. The flavors and textures all mingle together to create a heavenly coating for your chicken.

Step 4: Whisk the Egg

Crack the egg into a separate bowl and whisk it lightly. This egg works as the “glue” for your crunchy, cheesy coating, making sure it sticks to every inch of the chicken.

Step 5: Dredge and Coat

Dip each chicken cutlet into the whisked egg, turning to coat. Let any excess egg drip off, then dredge the cutlet in the panko-parmesan mixture. Gently press the coating onto the chicken so it sticks well—don’t skip this step for that signature crunch!

Step 6: Prepare the Air Fryer Basket

Lightly spray your air fryer basket with olive oil or cooking spray. Place the coated chicken in the basket in a single layer, then give the tops a quick mist of oil. This extra spritz helps the crust turn beautifully crisp and golden as it cooks.

Step 7: Air Fry to Perfection

Pop the basket into your preheated air fryer and cook at 400 degrees F for 10 to 12 minutes. Be sure to flip the chicken halfway through so each side gets evenly crispy. When it’s done, the crust will be golden and the chicken perfectly juicy inside.

How to Serve Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes make all the difference here! Try a sprinkle of chopped parsley or fresh basil on top, a squeeze of lemon for brightness, or a little extra grated parmesan for maximum cheesy goodness. Not only do these touches make your Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken look stunning, but they also add fresh pops of flavor.

Side Dishes

This chicken plays well with almost anything. Pile it onto a simple salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette for a lighter meal, or serve it with a bed of buttery mashed potatoes, garlic green beans, or herby roasted veggies for a hearty, comforting dinner. If you’re feeling Italian, a scoop of marinara or a side of pasta brings the restaurant vibes home.

Creative Ways to Present

Get creative! Slice the crusted chicken and tuck it inside a warm ciabatta roll with arugula and sun-dried tomato aioli, or slice it over a big Caesar salad for a satisfying lunch. You can even chop it and wrap it into a tortilla with a tangy slaw for a crispy chicken wrap. Every spin makes Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken feel like a fresh new meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, let them cool completely before popping them into an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. While the crust may lose a hint of its initial crispness, the flavor only gets better as the seasonings settle in.

Freezing

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken freezes beautifully. Place cooled cutlets in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. This method prevents sticking and allows you to grab single portions when cravings strike. The frozen chicken stays fresh for up to 2 months.

Reheating

For best results, reheat the chicken in your air fryer at 350 degrees F for about 3-5 minutes—it brings the crust right back to life! The oven works well too. Microwave only if you’re in a hurry, but know the coating won’t be quite as crispy.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Boneless chicken thighs stay extra juicy and flavorful. Just make sure to pound them to an even thickness for best results and adjust cooking time if needed.

What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?

Regular breadcrumbs work, but panko gives the crispiest texture. In a pinch, you can even use crushed crackers or cornflakes for a fun, crunchy twist on Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken.

Can I make this recipe gluten free?

Absolutely! Swap in your favorite gluten-free panko or breadcrumbs. Make sure the parmesan and seasonings are gluten free as well for a completely safe meal.

Is it okay to use pre-shredded parmesan instead of grated?

You can, though freshly grated parmesan melts and sticks better, giving the crust a gorgeous texture. Pre-shredded works in a hurry, just be aware the coating may be a tad chunkier.

Can I prepare the chicken ahead and cook later?

You can bread the chicken and refrigerate it, uncovered, for a few hours before air frying. This even helps the crust adhere better—just cook it straight from the fridge and adjust the time as needed.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken enough—it’s the kind of recipe that turns a regular night into something fun and delicious. The flavors and textures will win over even the pickiest eaters, and you’ll love how easy it is to pull together. Give it a try and let it become a new go-to at your table!

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 5 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: 22 minutes
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is a delicious and crispy twist on classic chicken cutlets. With a flavorful parmesan and panko crust, this dish is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

1 chicken breast (sliced into 2 thin cutlets)
1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 egg
salt
pepper
olive oil (or cooking spray)

Instructions

Preheat air fryer: Preheat air fryer at 400 degrees for 5 minutes.
Slice chicken breast: Slice chicken breast in half to get two thin cutlets. Season each cutlet with salt and pepper on both sides.
Prepare coating mixture: Add panko, parmesan, oregano, and garlic powder to a shallow bowl and stir to combine.
Whisk egg: To another bowl, add egg and lightly whisk.
Coat chicken: Dip the chicken cutlets in the egg, let excess egg drip off, then coat in the panko parmesan mixture, pressing in to coat.
Air fry: Spray air fryer basket with oil and add the chicken. Lightly spray the top with oil. Air fry at 400 degrees F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking.