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Amazing Crispy Air Fryer Chicken: 8 Minutes

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken
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Enjoy a healthier take on a classic Italian-American favorite. This Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan recipe delivers golden-brown, crunchy chicken cutlets without the excess oil of traditional frying, making it perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 – 2 pounds total), butterflied and pounded thin to about 1/2-inch thickness
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten with 1 tablespoon of water or milk
  • 1 1/2 cups Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground, or to taste
  • Olive oil cooking spray
  • 1 1/2 cups high-quality marinara sauce, warmed
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Butterfly and pound chicken breasts to 1/2-inch thickness; pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
  2. Set up breading stations: In the first dish, combine flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. In the second, beat eggs with water or milk. In the third, combine Panko breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, remaining salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  3. Bread the chicken: Dredge each cutlet in flour, then dip in egg wash, and finally coat thoroughly in the Panko mixture, pressing firmly to adhere.
  4. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  5. Air fry the chicken: Place breaded chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket (work in batches). Lightly spray each side with olive oil spray. Air fry for 8-10 minutes.
  6. Flip the chicken: Flip each cutlet, spray with more oil, and air fry for another 5-8 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove and set aside on a wire rack.
  7. Assemble and finish: Warm marinara sauce. Layer cooked chicken cutlets with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
  8. Melt the cheese: Return the assembled cutlets to the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, or bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8-12 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh basil (optional) and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Panko breadcrumbs are key for extra crispiness in the air fryer.
  • Olive oil cooking spray is crucial for air frying without excessive oil.
  • Patting the chicken dry thoroughly is essential for crispiness.
  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary.
  • Internal temperature of chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
  • For individual portions, the final melt can be done in the air fryer; for multiple portions, use the oven.
  • Optional serving suggestions include cooked spaghetti, linguine, steamed green beans, asparagus, or a green salad.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the air fryer or oven.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://quizsavor.com/crispy-air-fryer-chicken/

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