Parmesan Crusted Chicken: A Delicious Air Fryer Recipe
Are you looking for a delicious dish that's both crunchy and juicy? Look no further! Our Parmesan crusted chicken recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it's perfectly suited for cooking in an air fryer, ensuring a healthier twist on a classic favourite.
Why Air Fry?
Air frying offers a healthier alternative to traditional frying while still delivering that much-loved crispy texture. By using substantially less oil, your meals are lighter but equally delicious. Moreover, air fryers are known for their convenience and speed, making your cooking experience hassle-free.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or a light drizzle of olive oil
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for about 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and Italian herbs. Season with salt and pepper.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs lightly.
- Take each chicken breast and dip it first into the egg mixture, ensuring it's well-coated.
- Next, press the chicken into the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture. Ensure an even and firm coating.
- Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or lightly brush with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer in a single layer, ensuring there is space between them.
- Air fry at 200°C (390°F) for 10-12 minutes, then flip the chicken breasts and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Parmesan crusted chicken with a squeeze of lemon, a fresh garden salad, or lightly roasted vegetables for a complete meal. You could also pair it with your favourite pasta or garlic bread for a hearty dinner.
Tips for Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken
- Uniform Size: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly.
- Panko Preference: Using panko breadcrumbs adds extra crispiness, but regular breadcrumbs will work wonderfully too.
- Even Coating: Press the Parmesan mixture firmly onto the chicken to ensure it adheres properly.
- No Overcrowding: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can prevent the even circulation of air, affecting the crispiness.
And there you have it! A simple yet scrumptious Parmesan crusted chicken recipe that is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the delightful crunch and flavour achieved effortlessly with an air fryer.
Conclusion
This Parmesan crusted chicken is an excellent example of how modern cooking appliances like air fryers can transform traditional recipes, making them healthier and faster to prepare. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is bound to impress.
Happy cooking!