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Golden air fryer parmesan crusted chicken cutlets on a white plate with a crispy breadcrumb and parmesan crust, sliced to show the juicy interior

Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Crispy golden chicken cutlets coated in a savory parmesan and Italian breadcrumb crust, cooked in the air fryer for a juicy and flavorful weeknight dinner ready in just 25 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian-American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts sliced horizontally into 4 cutlets, patted dry
  • 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • olive oil cooking spray for basket and topping chicken

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Three shallow bowls
  • Meat thermometer
  • Olive oil cooking spray
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees F for about 3 minutes.
  2. Slice each chicken breast horizontally into two thinner cutlets. Pat each one completely dry with paper towels.
  3. Set up three shallow bowls: flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in the third.
  4. Dredge each cutlet in flour and shake off excess. Dip into the beaten egg, then press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture on both sides for an even coat.
  5. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange cutlets in a single layer without overlapping. Spray the tops generously with cooking spray.
  6. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, then flip each cutlet carefully. Spray the other side with cooking spray and cook for another 5 to 7 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F.
  7. Remove from the air fryer and let rest for 2 to 3 minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket or the chicken will steam instead of crisp. Cook in batches if needed. Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350 degrees F for 4 to 5 minutes to restore crispiness. Leftovers work great sliced over pasta, layered in sandwiches, or served cold on top of a green salad.