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Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken has become my ultimate solution for achieving that perfect crispy coating without the guilt of deep frying. After experimenting with countless breading combinations, I've discovered that the magic lies in the perfect ratio of Parmesan to panko, creating a golden crust that's both crispy and flavorful.
The first time I served this to my picky-eater nephew, he asked for seconds! The secret lies in the preparation of both the chicken and the coating.
Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips
- Chicken Breasts: Choose uniform size for even cooking
- Parmesan: Freshly grated provides best flavor and texture
- Panko: Japanese breadcrumbs create superior crunch
- Eggs: Room temperature for better coating adhesion
- Oregano: Fresh or dried both work well
- Garlic Powder: Provides even flavor distribution
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Detailed Preparation Steps
- Perfect Chicken Preparation:
- Slice breasts horizontally for even thickness. Pat completely dry with paper towels. Season directly on the meat. Let rest at room temperature. Pound if needed for uniformity.
- Coating Station Setup:
- Create assembly line in proper order. Keep one hand for wet ingredients. Use other hand for dry ingredients. Make extra coating mixture if needed. Place prepped pieces on parchment.
- Breading Technique:
- Dip chicken in egg thoroughly. Let excess egg drip off. Press firmly into coating mixture. Ensure even coverage. Shake off excess gently.
- Air Fryer Method:
- Preheat completely to 400°F. Spray basket lightly with oil. Arrange pieces without touching. Spray tops of chicken lightly. Don't overcrowd the basket.
- Cooking Process:
- Place larger pieces toward back. Flip carefully halfway through. Check temperature at thickest part. Look for golden-brown color. Let rest before serving.
My favorite meal prep trick is to make extra and freeze them before cooking - perfect for quick future meals.
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This Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken has become my go-to recipe for both weeknight dinners and entertaining. The combination of crispy coating and tender chicken creates a dish that satisfies both kids and adults. Whether you're new to air frying or a seasoned pro, this recipe delivers consistent, delicious results every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I know when the chicken is done?
- The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and be golden brown on the outside.
- → Why slice the chicken into cutlets?
- Thin cutlets cook more quickly and evenly, ensuring a perfectly cooked result.
- → Can I make this without an air fryer?
- While best in an air fryer, you can bake it in a regular oven at 400°F, though it may take longer.
- → Why spray with oil?
- A light spray of oil helps achieve even browning and a crispier coating.
- → Can I make this ahead?
- It's best served fresh and hot to maintain the crispy coating.