Crispy Healthy Chicken Parmesan – Air Fryer Recipe

Crispy Healthy Chicken Parmesan – Air Fryer Recipe

If you’re craving a delicious and healthy version of Chicken Parmesan, this Crispy Chicken Parmesan made in the air fryer is the perfect solution! It’s lighter than the traditional fried version, but still delivers all the crispy, cheesy goodness. This quick and easy recipe comes together in just 22 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight meal for you and your family.

Ingredients

• 2 (6 oz) chicken breasts, cut into cutlets (or use store-bought cutlets)
• 2 cups seasoned panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon granulated garlic
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2–3 large eggs
• Olive oil cooking spray
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Chopped basil and parsley for topping

Directions

1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
   Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for cooking.
2. Set Up the Dredging Station:
   In a shallow bowl, combine the seasoned panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, granulated garlic, chili powder, salt, and pepper. In a separate shallow bowl, crack and whisk the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Coat the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel. Dip each chicken cutlet into the egg mixture, shake off any excess, then press it into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure to fully coat each piece. Set the coated chicken aside on a plate and repeat with all cutlets.
4. Air Fry the Chicken: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Place the breaded chicken cutlets in the basket in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap. Spray the tops of the chicken with olive oil spray as well. Cook for 5 minutes, then flip the chicken, spray again, and cook for an additional 5 minutes until golden and crispy.
5. Add Sauce and Cheese: Once the chicken is crispy, open the air fryer and spoon tomato sauce over each cutlet. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of extra parmesan cheese. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the cheese to melt perfectly.
6. Serve: After cooking, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped basil and parsley. Serve alongside a spinach salad or your favorite pasta for a complete meal!

Tips for Success:

• Cutlet Thickness: If your chicken breasts are thick, pound them to an even thickness for even cooking.
• Crispiness: Spraying the chicken cutlets with olive oil spray ensures a crispy exterior without frying in oil.
• Melting the Cheese: If you like your cheese extra bubbly and golden, you can increase the air fryer temperature slightly for the final 2 minutes of cooking.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories per serving: 450 kcal
• Servings: 4

Time Breakdown:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 22 minutes

This Crispy Healthy Chicken Parmesan is a delicious way to enjoy the classic Italian dish with less guilt. The air fryer makes it quick and easy, while the combination of crispy breading, flavorful sauce, and gooey melted cheese makes every bite irresistible. It’s the perfect option for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, and pairs beautifully with a side salad or pasta.

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