Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this *air fryer parmesan crusted chicken fillet*! It’s crispy, golden, and oh-so-delicious, all while being super quick to whip up. I’m talking about a dinner that feels fancy but takes just about 22 minutes from start to finish! Trust me, once you take that first bite and hear that satisfying crunch, you’ll be hooked.
This recipe is one of my absolute favorites because it’s so versatile. I love serving it on busy weeknights when I don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Plus, the combination of the savory parmesan cheese and the crunchy breadcrumbs creates this amazing texture that I can’t resist. It’s perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself after a long day! Seriously, if you haven’t tried making chicken in the air fryer yet, you’re in for a treat!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering air fryer parmesan crusted chicken fillet. I promise, it’s simple and straightforward:
- 2 chicken fillets: Choose boneless, skinless fillets for the best results. They cook evenly and stay juicy!
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese: Make sure it’s finely grated for a nice, even coating that melts beautifully.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: I like using plain breadcrumbs, but you can go for seasoned ones if you want a little extra flavor!
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: This adds a lovely kick. If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add a bit more!
- 1 teaspoon paprika: For a touch of smokiness and color. It’s such a nice addition!
- Salt to taste: Don’t be shy! Seasoning is key to bringing out the flavors.
- Pepper to taste: Freshly cracked black pepper works best for that little extra bite.
- 1 egg, beaten: This helps the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken for that perfect crispy coating.
How to Prepare Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Fillet
Preheat the Air Fryer
First things first, let’s get that air fryer ready! Preheat it to 400°F (200°C). I usually give it about 5 minutes to reach that perfect temperature. This step is super important because it helps achieve that crispy, golden crust we all want!
Prepare the Coating Mixture
Now, grab a mixing bowl and combine the grated parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Just toss them all in together and mix until it’s well combined. You want every crumb to be coated in that cheesy goodness! The aroma of garlic and paprika will start to fill your kitchen—trust me, it’s heavenly!
Coat the Chicken Fillets
Okay, it’s time to coat those chicken fillets! First, dip each fillet into the beaten egg, making sure it’s fully covered. Let any excess egg drip off, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the crumbs stick well. You’ll want a nice, thick coating for that crunch you’re craving. Repeat this for both fillets, and don’t worry if it gets a bit messy—cooking should be fun!
Air Fry the Chicken Fillets
Now, place the coated chicken fillets in the air fryer basket. Make sure they’re not touching to allow even cooking. Set your timer for 10-12 minutes. Halfway through cooking, flip the fillets over to ensure they get that golden brown on both sides. You’ll know they’re done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Just imagine that crispy exterior and juicy interior—yum!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk nutrition! Now, keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so they’re not set in stone. But here’s a general idea of what you’re looking at per serving of this scrumptious air fryer parmesan crusted chicken fillet:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 90mg
So, whether you’re counting macros or just trying to eat a bit healthier, this dish packs a punch without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy every delicious bite without any guilt—how awesome is that?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just about 22 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without the fuss.
- Easy Cleanup: Since you’re using the air fryer, there’s minimal mess to deal with—just a few bowls and the fryer basket!
- Crispy Texture: The air fryer gives that amazing crunch without deep frying, making it a healthier option that still satisfies your cravings.
- Flavorful Taste: The combination of parmesan and spices creates a mouthwatering flavor that’s sure to impress everyone at the table.
- Versatile Dish: You can easily tweak the spices or serve it with different sides, making it a great addition to your regular meal rotation.
- Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this dish! The crispy coating and juicy chicken make it a hit for the whole family.
Tips for Success
Now that you’re ready to make your air fryer parmesan crusted chicken fillet, here are some pro tips to ensure it comes out absolutely perfect every single time!
- Adjust Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to tweak the seasoning to suit your taste! If you love a bit of heat, add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture. Feeling adventurous? Try mixing in some Italian herbs for a fresh twist!
- Use Cooking Spray: For an extra layer of crunch, I like to give the coated chicken fillets a light spray of cooking oil before air frying. It helps them achieve that deep-fried texture without all the added fat—win-win!
- Let It Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy. Plus, it’ll be easier to cut without losing all that delicious moisture!
- Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure you give the chicken fillets space in the air fryer basket. If they’re too close together, they won’t cook evenly, and you won’t get that lovely crispy crust on all sides. Trust me, spacing is key!
- Check Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. You want that internal temperature to hit 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked chicken. This ensures it’s safe to eat and still juicy!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a delicious air fryer parmesan crusted chicken fillet that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the cooking adventure!
Variations
If you’re feeling a bit adventurous or just want to switch things up, there are so many fun ways to customize your air fryer parmesan crusted chicken fillet! Here are some of my favorite variations that add a little extra flair:
- Herb-Infused Coating: Add some fresh or dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil to the breadcrumb mixture. This gives a delightful Mediterranean twist that brightens up the flavors!
- Spicy Kick: If you’re a heat lover, toss in some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes with the seasoning. It’ll give your chicken a zesty kick that’s totally addictive!
- Lemon Zest: Grate some lemon zest into the breadcrumb mixture for a refreshing citrus note. It pairs beautifully with the chicken and adds a nice brightness!
- Cheesy Variety: Try mixing in different types of cheese with the parmesan, like mozzarella or cheddar. You’ll get a gooey, cheesy surprise in every bite!
- Italian Style: For an Italian flair, add Italian seasoning or even some marinara sauce on top of the chicken after cooking. Serve it with a sprinkle of fresh basil for a delicious twist!
- Avocado Oil: Swap out the cooking oil for avocado oil. It has a high smoke point and adds a rich flavor that complements the chicken nicely!
These variations are just the beginning! Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own. The beauty of cooking at home is that you can adjust flavors to suit your taste, so have fun with it! I can’t wait to hear what combinations you come up with!
Serving Suggestions
Alright, now that you’ve got your air fryer parmesan crusted chicken fillet ready to go, let’s talk about the perfect sides to make it a complete meal! I love pairing this crispy delight with a variety of sides that complement its flavors and textures. Here are some of my top recommendations:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic are a classic pairing. They add a comforting touch that balances the crunch of the chicken.
- Steamed Broccoli: A simple side of steamed broccoli adds a pop of color and nutrition. Drizzle a little lemon juice on top for a refreshing twist!
- Caesar Salad: A crisp, Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and a tangy dressing complements the chicken beautifully. Plus, it adds a nice crunch to your plate!
- Roasted Vegetables: Toss up some seasonal veggies like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini with olive oil and herbs, then roast until caramelized. They bring a lovely sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory chicken.
- Quinoa or Couscous: For a lighter option, serve your chicken over fluffy quinoa or couscous. You can even toss in some herbs or lemon zest to elevate the flavors!
- Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds a nice crunch and tang, making it a great contrast to the crispy chicken. Try adding a little apple or raisins for a sweet twist!
The best part about these sides is that they’re all super easy to prepare and can be made while your chicken is air frying. Mix and match based on what you have on hand or what you’re in the mood for! Trust me, whatever you choose, it’ll elevate your air fryer parmesan crusted chicken fillet to a whole new level of deliciousness!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, if you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house, but hey, it happens!), here’s how to store and reheat your air fryer parmesan crusted chicken fillet to keep that deliciousness intact.
First off, let the chicken cool completely before storing it. This helps prevent condensation, which can make your crispy coating soggy—yikes! Once cooled, place the fillets in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 days. Just make sure to keep them tightly sealed.
Now, when it comes to reheating, I highly recommend using the air fryer again if you can! Preheat it to around 350°F (175°C) and pop the chicken back in for about 5-7 minutes. This will help restore that crispy texture we all love. If you don’t have an air fryer handy, you can also reheat them in the oven at the same temperature, just make sure to cover them loosely with foil to keep them from drying out.
Microwaving is an option too, but I’d advise against it if you want to keep that crunch. If you do go this route, place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel to help retain some moisture. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warmed through, but be prepared for a softer coating.
And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your air fryer parmesan crusted chicken fillet even after the first serving. Happy eating!
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Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Fillet: 22-Minute Delight
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Crispy air fryer parmesan crusted chicken fillet.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken fillets
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each chicken fillet in the beaten egg.
- Coat the chicken fillets with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the coated fillets in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Check for doneness; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- For extra crunch, spray with cooking oil before cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 fillet
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: air fryer parmesan crusted chicken fillet