Description
A healthier take on the classic Italian favorite, this air fryer version delivers crispy breaded chicken topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
For Topping:
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken – Slice chicken breasts in half lengthwise to make thinner cutlets. Pat dry with paper towels.
- Coat the Chicken – Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with panko, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Dredge each chicken cutlet in flour, dip in egg, and coat in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Air Fry the Chicken – Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and place the chicken in a single layer. Lightly spray the top of the chicken with oil. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Add Sauce & Cheese – Spoon marinara sauce over each cutlet, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Air fry for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve & Enjoy – Garnish with fresh basil and serve with pasta, a side salad, or garlic bread.
Notes
- Use whole-wheat breadcrumbs for a healthier option.
- For extra crispiness, toast the panko breadcrumbs in a dry pan before coating the chicken.
- Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.