Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan (Weeknight Fast)

Chef Emma here, and I’m thrilled to share the recipe that transformed my weeknight dinner routine forever.

This air fryer chicken parmesan is pure magic—crispy, golden-brown breaded chicken topped with melted mozzarella and marinara sauce, ready in just 25 minutes. No deep frying, no messy oil splatters, no heating up your kitchen for hours. Just restaurant-quality Italian comfort food made easy in your air fryer.

I still remember the first time I made this for my family. It was a Wednesday evening, everyone was hungry, and I was tired of the same old chicken recipes. I had just gotten my air fryer and was experimenting with what it could do.

When I pulled out that first batch of golden, crispy chicken cutlets and topped them with bubbling cheese, my kids’ eyes lit up like it was Christmas morning. My husband took one bite and declared it better than our favorite Italian restaurant. That night, this recipe earned a permanent spot in our dinner rotation.

What makes this easy chicken recipe so special is how it delivers all the crispy, cheesy goodness of traditional chicken parmesan with a fraction of the effort and calories. The air fryer creates that perfect golden crust without dunking the chicken in oil, and it cooks everything so quickly that you can have dinner on the table faster than ordering takeout.

This is one of those dinner recipes that feels fancy enough for company but easy enough for a Tuesday night. Kids love it, adults love it, and cleanup is a breeze. Whether you’re serving it over pasta, alongside a fresh salad, or tucked into a sandwich, this chicken parmesan never disappoints.

For more inspiration on quick air fryer dinners, check out Delish’s collection of easy air fryer recipes, or explore Taste of Home’s guide to family-friendly air fryer meals that come together fast.

Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan (Weeknight Fast)

This Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan features tender chicken breasts coated in a crispy panko-parmesan crust, topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. Healthier than traditional fried version but just as delicious. Ready in under 30 minutes!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Servings: 4

Calories: 380

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1½ pounds)
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt plus more for seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
• Cooking spray
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese for finishing
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish optional

Equipment

• Air fryer (3.5 quart or larger)
• Three shallow bowls or dishes
• Meat mallet or rolling pin
• Plastic wrap
• Sharp knife
• Cooking spray or oil mister
• – Meat thermometer
• – Tongs

Method

 

1. Butterfly each chicken breast by cutting horizontally through the middle, opening like a book to create 4 thin cutlets.
2. Place cutlets between plastic wrap and pound to even ½-inch thickness. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
3. Set up three bowls: flour seasoned with salt and pepper in first bowl, beaten eggs in second bowl, and panko mixed with Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes in third bowl.
4. Coat each chicken piece in flour, dip in egg, then press into panko mixture, coating thoroughly.
5. Preheat air fryer to 375°F for 3-5 minutes.
6. Spray air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange chicken in single layer without overlapping. Spray tops generously with cooking spray. Cook 6 minutes.
7. Flip chicken with tongs, spray other side, and cook another 5-6 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
8. Top each piece with ¼ cup marinara and ¼ cup mozzarella. Sprinkle with Parmesan. Air fry 2-3 more minutes until cheese melts.
9. Let rest 2-3 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve.

Notes

Don’t skip spraying chicken with oil for crispy results. Work in batches if needed—don’t overcrowd basket. Use panko breadcrumbs for best texture. Always check internal temp reaches 165°F. Can bread chicken up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate. Freezes beautifully for up to 2 months.

CALORIES:
380

PROTEIN:
42g

RECIPEYIELD:
4 servings

Summary

This Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan features tender chicken breasts coated in a crispy panko-parmesan crust, topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.

It’s healthier than the traditional fried version but just as delicious, making it one of the best easy dinner recipes for busy families. Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal cleanup!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Difficulty: Beginner-friendly

Equipment

You’ll need these simple tools to make this crispy, delicious chicken:

• Air fryer (3.5 quart or larger) – Essential for this air fryer recipe
• Three shallow bowls or dishes – For breading station
• Meat mallet or rolling pin – For pounding chicken to even thickness
• Plastic wrap – To cover chicken while pounding
• Sharp knife – For butterflying chicken breasts
• Cooking spray or oil mister – For spraying chicken
• Meat thermometer – To ensure chicken reaches 165°F
• Tongs – For flipping chicken

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1½ pounds total)
• ½ cup all-purpose flour – First coating layer
• 2 large eggs – Helps breading stick
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs – Creates the crispy crust
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds flavor to the coating
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Classic Italian herbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Savory depth
• ½ teaspoon onion powder – Extra flavor
• ½ teaspoon salt – Plus more for seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper – Freshly ground
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes – Optional, for a little heat
• Cooking spray – For crispy results

For Topping

• 1 cup marinara sauce – Store-bought or homemade
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Fresh or low-moisture
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese – For finishing
• Fresh basil leaves – For garnish (optional)

For Serving

• Cooked pasta (spaghetti, angel hair, or penne)
• Extra marinara sauce
• Side salad with Italian dressing
• Garlic bread

Directions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Place each chicken breast on a cutting board.

Carefully butterfly each breast by cutting horizontally through the middle, almost all the way through, then opening it like a book. This creates thinner cutlets that cook faster and more evenly. You should have 4 thin pieces total.

Step 2: Pound to Even Thickness

Place chicken cutlets between two pieces of plastic wrap.

Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to an even ½-inch thickness. This ensures even cooking and tender results. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Set Up Breading Station

Set up three shallow bowls in a row.

In the first bowl, place the flour and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. In the second bowl, beat the eggs until well combined. In the third bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken

Working with one piece at a time, coat the chicken in flour, shaking off excess.

Dip into the beaten eggs, letting excess drip off. Finally, press into the panko mixture, coating both sides thoroughly and pressing gently so the crumbs adhere well. Set breaded chicken on a plate and repeat with remaining pieces.

Step 5: Preheat Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for 3-5 minutes.

This step is important for achieving that golden, crispy crust.

Step 6: Air Fry the Chicken

Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.

Arrange chicken cutlets in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap. Spray the tops of the chicken generously with cooking spray—this is key for getting them crispy! Cook for 6 minutes.

Step 7: Flip and Continue Cooking

Carefully flip the chicken cutlets using tongs.

Spray the other side with cooking spray. Cook for another 5-6 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 8: Add Toppings

Top each piece of chicken with about ¼ cup marinara sauce and ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese.

Sprinkle with additional Parmesan. Return to the air fryer and cook for 2-3 more minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 9: Serve

Remove from the air fryer and let rest for 2-3 minutes.

Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve over pasta, with a side salad, or enjoy on its own!

Tips and Variations

Chef Emma’s Pro Tips

• Don’t skip the spray: Spraying the breaded chicken with cooking spray is essential for achieving that crispy, golden crust without deep frying.
• Work in batches: Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed to ensure even cooking and maximum crispiness.
• Even thickness matters: Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures it cooks uniformly and stays juicy throughout.
• Use panko: Panko breadcrumbs create a lighter, crispier coating than regular breadcrumbs. It’s worth seeking them out!
• Check internal temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for food safety.
• Let it rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking lets the juices redistribute for maximum tenderness.

Delicious Variations

• Extra Crispy Version: Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the panko mixture and mix with your hands for an even crispier coating
• Spicy Chicken Parm: Increase red pepper flakes to 1 teaspoon and add cayenne pepper to the breading
• Pesto Chicken Parmesan: Spread pesto on the chicken before adding marinara and cheese
• Caprese Style: Top with sliced fresh mozzarella, tomato slices, and fresh basil
• Buffalo Chicken Parm: Toss chicken in buffalo sauce after air frying, then add cheese
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free panko breadcrumbs

Make It Your Own

Cheese Options: Try provolone, fontina, or a blend of Italian cheeses instead of just mozzarella.

Sauce Variations: Use vodka sauce, arrabiata sauce, or your favorite homemade tomato sauce.

Add Vegetables: Layer sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers under the cheese for extra nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

This air fryer chicken parmesan pairs beautifully with:

• Classic spaghetti or linguine with marinara
• Creamy garlic parmesan pasta
• Caesar salad with homemade croutons
• Roasted vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, asparagus)
• Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
• Simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes
• Zucchini noodles for a low-carb option

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Store without sauce and cheese for best results, then add when reheating.

Freezer: Freeze breaded uncooked chicken for up to 2 months. Air fry directly from frozen, adding 3-4 minutes to cooking time. Cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 1 month.

Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to maintain crispiness. Microwave works but won’t be as crispy. Avoid oven reheating as it can dry out the chicken.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition information is approximate and based on 4 servings without pasta. Values may vary depending on specific ingredients used.

Nutritional Highlights

This air fryer chicken parmesan is significantly healthier than the traditional deep-fried version!

With an impressive 42 grams of protein per serving, it’s excellent for building and maintaining muscle mass. The air frying method cuts calories and fat by about 40% compared to pan-frying or deep-frying, while still delivering that crispy texture everyone loves.

The chicken provides lean protein along with essential B vitamins, particularly niacin and B6. The Parmesan and mozzarella cheese contribute calcium for bone health. The marinara sauce adds lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, plus vitamins C and A.

This is comfort food you can feel good about serving your family! It’s filling, satisfying, and nutritious without sacrificing any of the flavor.

Dietitian Tips

• Reduce sodium: Use low-sodium marinara sauce and reduce added salt in the breading mixture
• Boost protein: Use extra-lean chicken breasts and add more Parmesan to the breading
• Add fiber: Serve over whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles, and add a large serving of vegetables
• Lower calories: Use reduced-fat mozzarella and skip the flour coating (go straight from egg to breadcrumbs)
• Make it lighter: Use cooking spray instead of brushing with butter or oil
• Balance the meal: Pair with a large green salad and steamed vegetables to add nutrients and fill you up with fewer calories

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe.

They’re naturally more tender and forgiving than breasts. The cooking time will be similar, but always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Thighs have slightly more fat, so they’ll be even juicier.

Do I need to preheat my air fryer?

Preheating isn’t absolutely necessary, but it helps achieve the crispiest results.

Most air fryers preheat in just 3-5 minutes, and it ensures the chicken starts cooking immediately when you put it in. This leads to better browning and texture.

Why is my breading falling off?

This usually happens when the chicken is too wet or the breading isn’t pressed on firmly enough.

Make sure to pat the chicken completely dry before breading. Press the panko mixture firmly onto each piece so it adheres well. Also, don’t skip the flour step—it helps the egg stick to the chicken.

Can I make this without eggs?

Absolutely! For an egg-free version, use buttermilk, plain yogurt, or mayonnaise as the binding agent.

You can also try an egg replacement like flax eggs or aquafaba. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

The key is not overcooking it! Use a meat thermometer and remove the chicken from the air fryer as soon as it reaches 165°F.

Pounding the chicken to an even thickness also helps it cook uniformly. Don’t skip spraying with oil—it keeps the outside crispy while the inside stays moist.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

Yes! Bread the chicken cutlets up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate them on a plate covered with plastic wrap.

You can also bread and freeze them for up to 2 months. Air fry directly from frozen, adding 3-4 extra minutes to the cooking time.

Conclusion

This Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan is everything a weeknight dinner should be—quick, easy, delicious, and healthier than the restaurant version.

In just 25 minutes, you can have crispy, golden chicken topped with bubbling cheese and savory marinara sauce that tastes like it came from an Italian kitchen. No deep frying, no messy cleanup, no heating up your entire house.

What I love most about this recipe is how it makes my family feel special on an ordinary Tuesday night. There’s something about that crispy, cheesy chicken that turns a regular meal into something memorable.

The air fryer has truly been a game-changer for getting restaurant-quality results at home with minimal effort.

This easy chicken recipe has become my go-to when I want to impress without the stress. It works beautifully for date nights at home, family dinners, or even when you have guests coming over. Everyone always asks for the recipe, and they’re shocked when I tell them how simple it is.

I encourage you to make this recipe your own—adjust the seasonings, try different cheeses, experiment with various sauces. The air fryer method is so forgiving that it’s hard to mess up. Just remember to spray that breading well for maximum crispiness!

So dust off that air fryer, grab some chicken breasts, and get ready for the fastest, crispiest, most delicious chicken parmesan you’ve ever made. Your family will think you spent hours in the kitchen, and that’ll be our little secret!

Blog and Social Links Footer

For more recipes: famillyrecipes.com
Follow me on Facebook and Pinterest