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Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken Breast

This crispy air fryer Parmesan chicken breast is golden, crunchy, and full of cheesy flavor. Coated in a savory blend of Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and Italian seasonings, each chicken breast turns out perfectly crispy on the outside while staying juicy inside. It's an easy high-protein dinner that's ready in just 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings: 2 people
Course: dinner, lounch
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon milk
  • ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Cooking spray
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish, optional
  • Lemon wedges for serving, optional

Method
 

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3 to 5 minutes.
  2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If they are thick, pound them to an even thickness.
  3. In one shallow bowl, whisk together the egg and milk.
  4. In another bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  5. Brush the chicken breasts lightly with olive oil.
  6. Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the coating sticks.
  7. Lightly spray both sides of the coated chicken with cooking spray.
  8. Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between each piece.
  9. Air fry for 10 minutes, then carefully flip the chicken and lightly spray the top with cooking spray.
  10. Continue cooking for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the coating is crispy and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  11. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  12. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

  • Freshly grated Parmesan gives the coating the best flavor and texture.
  • Panko breadcrumbs make the crust extra crispy.
  • Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket so the chicken cooks evenly.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3 to 4 minutes to keep the coating crispy.