Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken is a deliciously crunchy, cheesy treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any night of the week. The chicken gets a golden crust thanks to a mix of Parmesan cheese and crispy breadcrumbs, all cooked to perfection using the air fryer for that satisfying crisp without extra oil. It’s a great way to enjoy a healthier take on classic crispy chicken.
I love making this recipe because it’s quick and doesn’t heat up the kitchen like frying does. Plus, the Parmesan adds such a nice, bold flavor that makes the chicken feel special even when you’re keeping dinner simple. I usually toss the chicken in some Italian seasoning and garlic powder, which really makes the crust pop with extra taste.
My favorite way to serve this crispy chicken is alongside a fresh salad or some roasted veggies for a balanced meal. It also pairs well with a little bit of marinara sauce on the side, turning it into a mini Italian feast. Trust me, everyone always asks for seconds when I make this—you just can’t beat that crunchy cheese crust.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts works best for even cooking. If you want a juicier option, try chicken thighs instead—they stay moist and are equally tasty with this crust.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor and helps create that golden crust. If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is a sharp alternative, but avoid pre-grated powders that won’t crisp well.
Panko breadcrumbs: These are key for extra crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs work but expect a less crispy texture. For a gluten-free option, crushed cornflakes or gluten-free panko are great swaps.
Seasonings: Garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and paprika add flavor and a bit of color. Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne if you like a little heat or swap in your favorite herbs.
How Do You Get the Parmesan Crust Crispy Without Burning in the Air Fryer?
Making the crust crispy but not burnt is all about layering and temperature control. Here’s how I do it:
- Even coating: Make sure the chicken is dry before you start, and press the Parmesan-panko mixture firmly onto the chicken. This helps the crust stay on and crisp evenly.
- Preheat the air fryer: A hot air fryer starts the crust crisping immediately, so don’t skip this step.
- Light oil spray: Spraying the chicken lightly on both sides with oil helps achieve that golden crust without excess fat.
- Flip halfway: Cooking time split allows both sides to brown evenly. Check the chicken’s thickness as thicker pieces need a few more minutes.
- Don’t overcrowd: Give each piece room to crisp by avoiding overlap. Small batches work best.
Following these tips keeps the crust crunchy and delicious without burning the cheese or breadcrumbs. It’s easier than it sounds, and the result is a perfect homemade crispy chicken!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – I love it because it cooks quickly and makes everything crispy without extra oil.
- Shallow bowls or dishes – for coating the chicken in flour, eggs, and Parmesan mixture.
- Meat mallet or rolling pin – to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness for even cooking.
- Tongs or a fork – for handling and turning the coated chicken safely and neatly.
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray – helps the crust crisp up nicely.
- Kitchen thermometer – to ensure the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- Plate or platter for serving – to present your crispy chicken perfectly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap Parmesan for Asiago or Pecorino to change up the flavor profile – they add a nice twist to the crust.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a touch of heat.
- Mix in chopped fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for extra freshness and color.
- Top with a squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of honey before serving for a bright, sweet contrast.
Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 16-18 minutes to cook in the air fryer, so you can have crispy, flavorful chicken ready in under 30 minutes. Plus, a short resting time after cooking helps keep it juicy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Chicken:
If your chicken breasts are thick, slice them horizontally to create evenly thick pieces about ½ inch thick—this helps them cook evenly. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, then season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Prepare the Coating Mixtures:
In one shallow bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. In another shallow bowl, mix the grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge the Chicken:
First, coat each chicken piece lightly in flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip into the beaten eggs, followed by pressing firmly into the Parmesan-panko mixture. Make sure to cover the chicken evenly, pressing the crust on well.
4. Preheat and Cook in the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray, then place the coated chicken in a single layer without overlapping. Spray the top of each piece lightly with cooking spray to help the crust crisp up. Cook for 10 minutes, then flip the chicken over, spray the other side lightly, and cook for another 6–8 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Rest and Serve:
Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a bright, fresh touch. Serve warm with your favorite sides like a salad or steamed veggies.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before cooking. This ensures even cooking and a crispy crust.
How Do I Store Leftover Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cereal to keep that crispy texture without gluten.
What Should I Serve with Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
This chicken pairs perfectly with fresh salads, steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple pasta tossed in olive oil and herbs for a complete meal.