Description
This Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a quick and flavorful recipe featuring tender, pounded chicken breasts coated in a zesty garlic Parmesan mixture and cooked to perfection in the air fryer. Ready in just 22 minutes, it’s a simple yet delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights or any time you crave crispy, juicy chicken without the added oil.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to an even thickness)
Garlic Parmesan Mixture
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Mixture: In a medium-size bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, white vinegar, extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, dried oregano, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly blended to form a flavorful coating mixture.
- Prepare the Chicken: Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound each chicken breast to an even thickness. This ensures even cooking and tenderizes the meat. Then, dredge each piece of chicken in the prepared Parmesan mixture, coating both sides completely to infuse the flavors.
- Air Fry the Chicken: Lightly spray the insert of an air fryer with non-stick spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated chicken breasts inside the air fryer basket in a single even layer without overlapping to allow proper air circulation and even cooking.
- Cook the Chicken: Air fry the chicken breasts at 375°F (190°C) for 12 minutes. This high-heat air-frying method crisps the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
- Rest and Serve: Once the cooking time is complete, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring maximum tenderness and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your crispy, garlicky Parmesan chicken!
Notes
- Pound chicken breasts evenly to ensure uniform cooking and tenderness.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially the crushed red pepper flakes for preferred heat level.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a dairy-free version, omit Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
