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Crispy Healthy Chicken Parmesan – Air Fryer Recipe

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A lighter, healthier version of classic chicken Parmesan made crispy and golden using an air fryer, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 56 ounces each)

1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)

2 large eggs

1 cup breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon paprika

½ teaspoon kosher salt

¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Olive oil cooking spray

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup marinara sauce

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to create four cutlets. Pound uneven pieces to an even thickness.
  2. Set up dredging stations: flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a third.
  3. Coat each chicken cutlet by dredging in flour, dipping in eggs, then coating with breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
  4. Preheat air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Spray basket lightly with olive oil.
  5. Place breaded cutlets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray tops lightly with olive oil.
  6. Cook for 6–7 minutes, flip, spray again, then cook 5–7 minutes more until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and chicken is golden brown.
  7. Preheat oven broiler. Place cooked chicken on baking sheet, spoon marinara sauce over each cutlet, then sprinkle Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses.
  8. Broil for 2–3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Garnish with chopped fresh basil if desired and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
  • Add red pepper flakes to breadcrumbs for a spicy kick.
  • Substitute chicken with eggplant slices for a vegetarian option.
  • Try different cheeses like provolone or gouda for varied flavors.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in air fryer at 350°F (177°C) for 3–5 minutes or microwave (may reduce crispiness).

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