This Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, thanks to the air fryer magic! The garlic and parmesan shine through, making every bite tasty.
I love how quick and simple this meal is. Pair it with a salad, and you’ve got a delicious dinner ready in no time. Plus, who can resist that cheesy goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish. If you want an alternative, chicken thighs work well too; they’re juicy and stay tender when cooked.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan adds flavor and richness. If you’re out, try Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. It won’t be cheesy but can add a nice umami flavor.
Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are preferred for a crispy texture. Regular breadcrumbs will do the job, but if you’re gluten-free, use crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour instead.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives depth of flavor. If you’re short on fresh, you can use garlic powder, but stick to half a teaspoon—or you might overpower the dish!
Pasta: Cavatappi holds the sauce beautifully, but macaroni is classic. Any type of pasta you have on hand will work just fine!
How Do I Get My Chicken to Be Crispy and Golden in the Air Fryer?
Crispy chicken is all about preparation! Here’s how to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked and crunchy:
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry first; moisture can prevent a good crisp. Use paper towels and press lightly.
- Applying olive oil helps the breadcrumb mixture stick. Don’t skip this step; it’s key to that golden appearance!
- Press the breadcrumb coating onto the chicken firmly to help it adhere during cooking.
- Give enough space in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can make it steam instead of crisp, leading to less crunchy results.
- Check the internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) with a meat thermometer for perfectly cooked chicken.
How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
For Serving:
- 2 cups cooked pasta, preferably cavatappi or macaroni
- Marinara sauce, for tossing with pasta
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes for preparation and about 10-12 minutes for cooking. So, in just about 30 minutes, you can have a delicious Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This prepares the air fryer for cooking the chicken evenly and gives that crispy texture we all love.
2. Make the Coating Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine the grated parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. This will be your flavorful coating for the chicken!
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. This will help the coating stick better. Brush both sides of the chicken with olive oil, ensuring it’s well coated. Then, take the breadcrumb mixture and press it gently onto both sides of the chicken, making sure it sticks nicely.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Carefully place the coated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure they’re not touching each other for even cooking. Cook them for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is golden brown.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it up. Serve the sliced chicken over your cooked pasta that’s been tossed with marinara sauce. Top it with chopped chives for a fresh finish. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will yield a juicier result due to their higher fat content. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless, and you can follow the same cooking instructions. You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly based on thickness—check the internal temperature to reach 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Substitute for Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs will work in a pinch. For a gluten-free option, you can use crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Just make sure to keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may brown more quickly!
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps keep the chicken crispy!
Can I Add More Flavor to the Chicken Coating?
Definitely! You can mix in some grated lemon zest, add a pinch of cayenne for heat, or incorporate your favorite herbs to the breadcrumb mixture, such as thyme or rosemary. Experimenting with additional spices can enhance the flavor profile to your liking!
