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Crispy Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets

crispy parmesan crusted air fryer chicken cutlets - featured image

A quick and easy 20-minute dinner recipe featuring juicy chicken cutlets with a golden, crunchy Parmesan crust made in the air fryer for a healthier, mess-free meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded to ½-inch thickness
  • ½ cup buttermilk or plain yogurt
  • ¾ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup seasoned or panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • Olive oil spray

Instructions

  1. Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and pound to an even ½-inch thickness.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine buttermilk or plain yogurt with a pinch of salt and pepper. Add chicken cutlets and marinate for 10 minutes.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  4. Beat eggs in a third bowl until smooth.
  5. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Dip into beaten eggs, then press into Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture to coat both sides evenly. Place coated cutlets on a wire rack or plate.
  6. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
  7. Lightly spray air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Arrange cutlets in a single layer without overlapping. Spray tops lightly with oil.
  8. Cook for 5-6 minutes, flip with tongs, spray again, and cook another 5-6 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  9. Let cutlets rest for 3 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for best texture and flavor. For gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free panko. Lightly spray oil to avoid sogginess. Cook in batches if air fryer basket is small. Let cutlets rest after cooking to lock in juices. Reheat leftovers in air fryer to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken, Parmesan crusted chicken, crispy chicken cutlets, quick dinner, easy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner, healthy chicken