Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a weeknight lifesaver that bakes up juicy with a crisp, cheesy crust in under half an hour. Pounding the chicken thin creates a cutlet that cooks evenly and soaks up every bit of bright Parmesan lemon flavor. It is a recipe I return to on busy days because it always feels a little special and never fails to please.

I first started cooking this for my packed work weeks and it quickly became a staple. Even when I am tired or short on time, this chicken turns out so delicious everyone thinks I spent hours.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Choose ones the same size for even cooking Pound to make them super tender
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Lends nutty flavor and a gorgeous crust Use good quality for best results
• White vinegar: The touch of acid tenderizes the meat and brightens flavor Use a white wine or apple cider vinegar for a twist
• Extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps browning Look for a fresh bottle with a grassy aroma
• Lemon juice: Brings out the tang and freshness Fresh squeezed is best
• Garlic powder: Delivers garlicky punch without burning
• Dried oregano: Gives that classic Italian warmth Look for green not gray dried leaves
• Onion powder: Savory background flavor
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Adds a mild kick Use more or less to taste
• Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing and boosting the other flavors Use kosher salt and crack fresh pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Mix Marinade and Coating:

Combine the Parmesan cheese vinegar olive oil lemon juice garlic powder dried oregano onion powder crushed red pepper flakes salt and pepper in a medium bowl Mix until it becomes a thick and creamy marinade coating

Pound and Prepare Chicken:

Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound to an even half inch thickness This ensures tenderness and fast even cooking

Dredge Chicken:

Coat each piece of chicken thoroughly in the marinade Use your hands to press the mixture onto both sides so every bite is well flavored

Arrange in Air Fryer:

Spray the air fryer basket with nonstick spray Lay the chicken pieces in a single layer with no overlapping or crowding This helps the crust get crisp and golden

Air Fry and Rest:

Set your air fryer to three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit Cook the chicken for twelve minutes or until the surface is golden and the internal temperature reaches one hundred sixty five degrees Let rest for a couple of minutes before serving so the juices settle

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One of my favorite things is how the Parmesan creates a crunchy crust while staying juicy underneath My kids actually cheer when I make this because it tastes like something from a fancy restaurant but takes no time at all

Storage Tips

This chicken keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Layer parchment between pieces so the coating stays crisp When reheating use the air fryer or oven to help the crust crisp back up Skip the microwave for best texture

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap Parmesan for Romano for a stronger flavor or use nutritional yeast to keep it dairy free White wine vinegar works in place of white vinegar For extra garlic flavor add minced fresh garlic to the marinade You can also use boneless chicken thighs for a juicier cut

Serving Suggestions

This chicken pairs perfectly with fluffy white rice sautéed seasonal vegetables pasta with simple red or cream sauce or even atop a fresh salad I love packing up portions with veggies for my lunches all week It is also wonderful sliced for sandwiches or wraps

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Cultural Context

Perfecting a thin chicken cutlet is a beloved tradition in Italian and Italian American kitchens My method borrows from those roots with a nod to efficiency using the air fryer This way you still get the golden crust and tangy bite that make breaded chicken such a classic

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do you keep the chicken extra juicy?

Pounding the chicken to even thickness helps cook it evenly and keeps every piece juicy. The marinade of oil, lemon, and vinegar adds extra moisture and flavor.

→ What’s the best way to coat the chicken?

Mix the parmesan, oil, lemon, vinegar, and seasonings in a bowl, then dredge each piece so it’s fully covered on both sides before cooking.

→ Can this be made without an air fryer?

Yes! Arrange the coated chicken on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for about 25 minutes or until fully cooked.

→ What sides pair well?

It goes well with white rice, sautéed vegetables like broccoli or carrots, or pasta with red or cream sauce.

→ How can leftovers be stored and reheated?

Store in sealed containers in the fridge. Reheat in the air fryer or oven so the coating stays crisp.