Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan Recipe

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Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 (8-ounce) boneless skinless chicken breasts, patted dry
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 1/2 cups seasoned panko (Japanese-style breadcrumbs)
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup jarred marinara sauce, plus more for serving
• 1 cup shredded low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella cheese

Directions

1. Begin by gathering all the ingredients.
2. On a cutting board, butterfly each chicken breast by slicing it horizontally to create four thin pieces. Season both sides with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
3. Place the flour, egg, and panko in three separate shallow dishes. To the panko, add Parmesan, olive oil, crushed red pepper, and garlic powder, then stir to combine. In the flour, add the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, mixing well.
4. Working with one chicken piece at a time, dredge it in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Dip it into the beaten egg, letting the excess drip off, then coat it in the seasoned panko. Place the coated chicken on a plate and repeat with the remaining pieces.
5. Preheat a 6-quart air fryer to 400F (200C) for 2 minutes.
6. Working in batches, place two chicken cutlets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Top each chicken cutlet with 1/4 cup marinara sauce and 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese.
8. Arrange all four chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400F (200C) for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted, browned, and a thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken reads 165F (73C).
9. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired, and extra marinara on the side.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 582
• Fat: 18g (23% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 4g (22% DV)
• Cholesterol: 201mg (67% DV)
• Sodium: 1263mg (55% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 45g (16% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 4g (14% DV)
• Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 57g (113% DV)
• Vitamin C: 1mg (2% DV)
• Calcium: 450mg (35% DV)
• Iron: 5mg (26% DV)
• Potassium: 676mg (14% DV)

The Rich History of Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan, also known as "Chicken Parmigiana," has roots that trace back to Italian immigrants in the United States during the early 20th century. While its inspiration comes from traditional Italian dishes such as "Melanzane alla Parmigiana" (eggplant Parmesan), Italian-American cooks adapted the recipe by substituting eggplant with breaded chicken cutlets, layering them with marinara sauce and cheese. This fusion created a comforting, hearty dish that quickly gained popularity across North America.

Regional Variations and Adaptations

Different regions in the United States have put their own spin on Chicken Parmesan. In the Northeast, it is often served over spaghetti or penne, combining a saucy pasta base with crispy chicken. In contrast, Midwestern versions sometimes emphasize a thicker breadcrumb coating and extra cheese for a more indulgent experience. The rise of air fryers has also influenced modern adaptations, producing a lighter, less greasy version while retaining the classic flavors of golden-brown crust, savory marinara, and melted mozzarella.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

While Chicken Parmesan is often compared to dishes like veal Parmesan or eggplant Parmesan, the key difference lies in the protein and cooking method. Veal Parmesan uses tender veal cutlets, while eggplant Parmesan is entirely vegetarian. Traditional Chicken Parmesan is pan-fried, but air fryer versions provide a crisp exterior without deep-frying. The combination of breaded chicken, tomato sauce, and cheese distinguishes it from other Italian-American casseroles, giving it a unique texture and flavor profile.

Typical Serving Occasions

Chicken Parmesan is commonly served as a main course in both home kitchens and Italian-American restaurants. It often appears on dinner menus alongside pasta, garlic bread, and a simple salad. Many families also enjoy it as a weeknight meal due to its relatively quick preparation, especially when made in an air fryer. In restaurants, it is frequently presented as a plated entree with a side of spaghetti or roasted vegetables, sometimes garnished with fresh basil or extra Parmesan.

Interesting Facts About Chicken Parmesan

• The dish was popularized in the United States rather than Italy, making it a prime example of Italian-American culinary innovation.
• Air fryer adaptations have emerged in recent years, offering a healthier alternative without compromising the iconic crispy texture.
• Many home cooks experiment with toppings, using provolone, fontina, or even spicy marinara to customize the flavor.
• Chicken Parmesan has inspired sandwiches, sliders, and even pizza toppings, showing its versatility beyond the traditional entree.
• The dish is celebrated for its combination of texturesthe crunch of the breaded chicken, the richness of melted cheese, and the tang of tomato sauce.

FAQ about Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan Recipe

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