Quick Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

Name: Quick Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 2
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 package of spaghetti, 8 ounces; ½ tablespoon of salt; 2 fully cooked breaded chicken fillets (such as Kirkwood®); ½ can of marinara sauce, 8 ounces; 1 package of fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced, 8 ounces; 1 tablespoon of fresh basil, thinly sliced

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By AprilPublished Aug 7, 2023

Are you craving a delicious and crispy chicken Parmesan but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen?

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Prep: 5 min
Cook: 15 min
Total: 20 min
Servings: 2

Method

Preheat the air fryer by setting it to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) and allow it to heat for 5 minutes.
In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add a pinch of salt.
Add the spaghetti to the boiling water and cook for about 12 minutes, or until it is cooked but still slightly firm when bitten. Stir occasionally while cooking.
While the spaghetti is cooking, place two chicken fillets in the air fryer basket.
Air fry the chicken fillets for 6 minutes, then flip them over and cook for an additional 6 minutes on the other side.
Spread marinara sauce over the cooked chicken fillets and top each fillet with mozzarella slices.
Continue air frying until the cheese is melted, which should take around 3 more minutes.
Drain the cooked spaghetti and divide it equally between two bowls.
Carefully place a chicken fillet on top of the spaghetti in each bowl.
Garnish with basil leaves.
If using Kirkwood® brand chicken breast fillets from Aldi®, any remaining fillets can be air-fried and served on sandwich buns to replicate the famous chicken sandwich at home.

About this recipe

Are you craving a delicious and crispy chicken Parmesan but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen? Look no further! With the help of an air fryer, you can whip up a quick and mouthwatering chicken Parmesan that will satisfy your cravings. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making this tasty dish in no time. Let's get started!

Why Choose an Air Fryer?

Before we dive into the recipe, let's talk about the benefits of using an air fryer. Think of it as a mini convection oven that circulates hot air around your food, giving it a crispy texture without the need for excessive oil. It's a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods while still providing that delightful crunch we all love.

Preparing the Chicken

To make this quick chicken Parmesan, start by preparing the chicken. You can use chicken breasts or tenderloins, whichever you prefer. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you like. This is where you can get creative and add your personal touch to the dish.

Breading the Chicken

Now comes the fun part - breading the chicken. In a shallow bowl, mix breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. Dip each seasoned chicken piece into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure to coat it evenly. The breadcrumbs will give the chicken that crispy outer layer.

Air Frying the Chicken

Time to bring out the air fryer! Preheat your air fryer to the recommended temperature (usually around 400Â°F). Place the breaded chicken pieces in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook the chicken for about 10-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Adding the Sauce and Cheese

Once the chicken is cooked, it's time to top it with delicious marinara sauce and cheese. Spread a generous amount of marinara sauce over each piece of chicken, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Place the chicken back in the air fryer for a couple of minutes, just until the cheese melts and becomes gooey.

Serving and Enjoying

Now that your air fryer chicken Parmesan is ready, it's time to serve and enjoy! You can serve it over a bed of pasta or with a side of garlic bread. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an extra pop of flavor and color. The result is a crispy, cheesy, and flavorful chicken Parmesan that will leave you wanting more.

In Conclusion

With the help of an air fryer, you can create a quick and delicious chicken Parmesan that will impress your taste buds. The crispy chicken, gooey cheese, and flavorful sauce come together to create a mouthwatering dish that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this air fryer chicken Parmesan will surely be a hit. So why wait? Give it a try and indulge in this delightful Italian-inspired dish!

Frequently asked questions

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?: It's best to use thawed chicken for this recipe to ensure even cooking and optimal results.
Can I use a different type of cheese?: Absolutely! While mozzarella is the traditional choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or provolone.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?: Yes, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes as a substitute for regular breadcrumbs.
What other toppings can I add?: Feel free to get creative! You can add sliced pepperoni, fresh tomatoes, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Can I air fry the chicken without breading it?: Yes, you can skip the breading step if you prefer a healthier and lighter version of chicken Parmesan.
How do I clean the air fryer?: Most air fryer baskets and trays are dishwasher safe, but be sure to check the manufacturer's instructions for specific cleaning guidelines.
Can I make this recipe with boneless chicken thighs?: Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs work just as well in this recipe and offer a slightly different flavor and texture.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?: While the chicken is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the breaded chicken in advance and refrigerate it until you are ready to cook.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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