Description
These Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets are crispy, golden, and bursting with savory flavors, making a quick and easy dinner option. Coated with a crunchy parmesan and breadcrumb mixture, these cutlets cook perfectly in the air fryer, delivering a healthier alternative to traditional frying without sacrificing taste or texture.
Ingredients
Chicken Cutlets
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to 1/2 inch thickness
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Breading
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
For Cooking
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even 1/2 inch thickness to ensure uniform cooking. Season both sides of the cutlets evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to add flavor.
- Set Up Breading Stations: Place the flour in a shallow bowl. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. In a third bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian seasoning, and chopped parsley (if using) to create the breadcrumb mixture.
- Dredge the Chicken: Coat each chicken cutlet first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, press into the breadcrumb mixture firmly to ensure a good coating.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes to ensure a crispy crust.
- Cook the Cutlets: Lightly spray both sides of the breaded chicken cutlets with cooking spray or olive oil spray. Place the cutlets in a single layer in the air fryer basket ensuring they are not overlapping. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- Serve: Remove the cutlets from the air fryer and let rest for a few minutes before serving. These pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, pasta, or steamed vegetables.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, double coat the chicken by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps before air frying.
- If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs can be used but texture may be less crunchy.
- Adjust seasoning in the breadcrumb mixture with preferred herbs or spices to customize flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness without overcooking.
- Air fryer cook times may vary depending on the model; check at 8 minutes and adjust accordingly.
