This Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken is super tasty and so easy to make! Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, it’s packed with garlic and cheesy goodness. 🧄🧀
I love how the air fryer gives it that perfect crunch without all the oil. Plus, it cooks up fast—ideal for those busy weeknights. You might want to make extra; it disappears quickly!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here since they cook evenly and get crispy. If you prefer a more flavorful option, chicken thighs can be a great substitution; just adjust cooking time accordingly.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan brings a rich flavor, but pre-grated works too. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast for a similar taste without the cheese.
Breadcrumbs: Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs add extra flavor. You can make your own by toasting and finely grinding plain breadcrumbs with Italian herbs. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are also great for those with gluten sensitivities.
Garlic Powder: This ingredient gives a nice kick. Feel free to substitute it with fresh minced garlic (about 1 clove) if you want that fresh garlic taste, just be sure to reduce the amount.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Comes Out Crispy in the Air Fryer?
Getting crispy chicken in the air fryer is all about preparation. Start by making sure your chicken is well coated. The olive oil helps the coating stick and become crisp as it cooks.
- Preheat your air fryer to get an initial kick of heat.
- Make sure to dredge the chicken well in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to help it stick.
- Avoid overcrowding in the air fryer basket; you want to allow air circulation for even cooking.
- Flipping halfway through ensures an even crispiness on both sides, so don’t skip this step!
- Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking allows juices to settle, keeping it moist inside.
How to Make Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
For the Coating:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian seasoned)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- Fresh chives, chopped
Optional Serving:
- 2 cups pasta (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook in the air fryer. If you’re making pasta as a side, add another 10 minutes. Overall, you’ll need about 30-40 minutes to complete your delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This helps ensure your chicken cooks evenly and gets that nice crispy coating.
2. Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will give your chicken a flavorful, crunchy crust!
3. Coat the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and brush them with olive oil. Make sure they are well coated, as this helps the coating stick. Then, dredge each chicken breast in the Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to make it stick well.
4. Air Fry the Chicken:
Place the coated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to ensure they cook evenly. Cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through to achieve a golden brown color and crispiness. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Cook the Pasta (Optional):
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the pasta according to package instructions if you wish to serve it as a side. This is optional, but it pairs nicely with the chicken!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken is done, let it rest for a few minutes to keep it juicy. Then slice it up and serve it over the cooked pasta, if you made it. Don’t forget to garnish with chopped fresh chives for a splash of color and flavor!
Enjoy your delicious Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken!
## FAQ for Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work well and can add more flavor and juiciness to the dish. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless, and you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs might take a bit longer to reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure that your Parmesan cheese is gluten-free as well, as some processed cheeses may contain additives with gluten.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through to retain its crispiness.
Can I Prepare This Dish Without an Air Fryer?
Yes! If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the chicken in a preheated conventional oven at 400°F (200°C). Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is crispy and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
