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This easy, small-batch recipe lets you enjoy chicken parmesan in less time, with far less mess. You’ll get crispy breaded chicken, tangy sauce, and gooey cheese – perfect for a quick dinner for two that still feels special.

Crispy air fryer chicken parmesan with melted cheese on a bed of spaghetti.

If you crave crunchy, cheesy chicken parmesan, imagine getting it on your plate faster and with much less clean-up. Air fryer chicken parmesan gives you the golden crisp you expect, but ditches the heavy oil and long prep time. It’s perfect for nights when you want the comfort of your favorite dish, but without the fuss or extra calories.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hot air circulates around the breaded chicken, producing a crispy, golden crust with only a light spray of oil.
Clean-up is easier too, since you won’t be dealing with a pan full of used oil.
No need to heat the whole kitchen by using a big oven, the air fryer is smaller and cooks your chicken parmesan in under 15 minutes.
Circulating heat ensures the breaded exterior browns evenly, and the inside stays nice and juicy.

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Ingredients

Boneless, skinless chicken breast: Slice the breast into two cutlets about one-half inch thick.
Egg: Acts like a glue to hold the seasoned bread crumbs, or panko, on the chicken.
Marinara sauce: Choose a thick, flavorful marinara, whether homemade or a jar from the grocery store.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan delivers a sharp, nutty taste that this dish is known for.
Mozzarella cheese: Whole milk mozzarella melts into stretchy, gooey pools. Shred it yourself for the best melt. Pre-shredded mozzarella contains anti-caking agents that can clump together and not melt as smoothly.
Oil spray (preferably non-aerosol): Gives the chicken a nice, crispy shell without being greasy.

Check out the printable recipe card below for the complete recipe and detailed instructions.

Crispy chicken parmesan topped with melted cheese on a bed of spaghetti.

How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

Start with evenly sliced chicken breasts, about 1/2-inch thick, for quick, even cooking. Pat the chicken dry so the coating will really stick.

In a shallow bowl, lightly beat the egg. Mix the seasoned bread crumbs and parmesan cheese together in a second shallow bowl.

A bowl with beaten egg and a plate with seasoned bread crumbs.

Dunk each piece of chicken in the egg, letting any extra drip away. Then press the chicken firmly into the breadcrumb-Parmesan mix, making sure every edge is coated.

Egg dipped chicken breast coated in seasoned bread crumbs on plate.

Pro Tip: Use one hand for dry ingredients and the other for wet to keep your fingers from turning into a thick, sticky mess.

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Spritz or brush both sides of the breaded chicken lightly with oil.

Arrange chicken pieces in a single layer in the basket, leaving space so the hot air can swirl around every edge.

Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes, then carefully flip each piece. Give another light spray of oil and cook for 5-6 minutes more, until the crust is deep golden and the chicken is cooked through (165°F / 74°C internal temperature).

Crispy chicken breasts in air fryer basket.

Spoon a thick layer of marinara sauce over each cutlet, spreading to the edges but not so much it soaks the crust. Top the sauced chicken with shredded mozzarella.

Chicken parmesan with grated mozzarella cheese in air fryer basket.

Slide the chicken back into the air fryer for another 2-4 minutes, just long enough to melt the cheese to bubbling perfection.

Serve immediately with chopped parsley or fresh basil and extra parmesan cheese.

Air fryer chicken parmesan on spaghetti.

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Tips

Sprinkle a few red pepper flakes on top for gentle heat.
If you love browned cheese, watch closely! Air fryer heat is powerful and things go from golden to scorched fast.

Serving Suggestions

Classic pasta: Stick with spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine dressed lightly in olive oil or marinara.
Fresh, crisp salads: Caesar salad with homemade croutons or simple arugula with lemon vinaigrette add cool contrast without being too heavy.
Roasted vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans roasted to crisp-tender make a quick, healthy side that plays up the Italian flavors.
Garlic bread or focaccia: Thick slices of garlic bread are essential for scooping up extra sauce and cheesy bits left on the plate.

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How to Store

Cool completely, then place each portion in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, wrap chicken tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze in a freezer-safe container. Frozen chicken parmesan keeps up to 2 months.
Reheat in the air fryer at 380°F (193°C) for 4-6 minutes, until the cheese is gooey and the crust is crunchy.

Air fryer chicken parmesan makes comfort food easy and satisfying with bold flavor, a crisp crust, and gooey cheese – all with less mess and guilt. In just minutes, you can pull together a homemade classic that feels like a treat, right-sized for two.

Did you try this recipe? I’d love to see it!
Tag @cookingwithcurls on Instagram & Facebook and leave a ⭐️⭐⭐⭐⭐ review below!

Enjoy!!