- Pound the Chicken Breasts: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This ensures even cooking.
- Brine the Chicken (Optional but Recommended): For extra juicy and flavorful chicken, brine the breasts in a mixture of 4 cups water, 1/4 cup salt, and 1/4 cup sugar. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 4 hours. Rinse and pat dry before proceeding.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
- Prepare the Dry Mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Prepare the Wet Mixture: In another shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
- Dip in Egg Mixture: Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Coat with Breadcrumb Mixture: Transfer the chicken to the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well to both sides of the chicken.
Step 4: Preheat and Prepare the Air Fryer
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Lightly Oil the Basket: Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray or a light brush of oil to prevent sticking.
Cooking Steps
Step 5: Cook the Chicken
- Arrange the Chicken: Place the breaded chicken breasts in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure not to overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if necessary.
- Cook: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes. Flip the chicken breasts and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- Melt the Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Cook the Garlic: Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add Parmesan: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Remove from heat.
Step 7: Coat the Chicken with Sauce
- Brush the Chicken: Once the chicken is done, transfer it to a plate and immediately brush each piece generously with the garlic Parmesan sauce.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with additional grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and full of flavor, mashed potatoes are a great accompaniment.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus provide a healthy and colorful side.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with a tangy Caesar dressing complements the richness of the chicken.
Dipping Sauces
- Marinara Sauce: For a tangy and rich dipping option.
- Ranch Dressing: A classic, creamy dip that pairs well with the garlic Parmesan flavors.
- Lemon Aioli: A zesty, refreshing dip made with mayonnaise, lemon juice, and garlic.
Tips and Tricks
For Extra Crispiness
- Double Dipping: For an extra crunchy coating, dip the chicken in the egg mixture and breadcrumb mixture twice.
- Use Fresh Breadcrumbs: Homemade breadcrumbs can offer a lighter and crispier texture compared to store-bought.
Cooking Variations
- Bone-In Chicken: This recipe works well with bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Spicy Variation: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
Storing and Reheating
- Storing: Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes to retain crispiness.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken is a delectable dish that combines convenience with gourmet flavor. With its crispy coating and savory garlic Parmesan sauce, this chicken is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or a special dinner for guests, this recipe is both impressive and easy to make. Enjoy the rich, satisfying taste of perfectly cooked chicken with minimal effort, thanks to your air fryer.
Key Takeaway
The secret to perfect Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken lies in the balance of flavors and the crispiness of the coating. By following these detailed steps and tips, you can achieve a delicious, restaurant-quality meal at home. Happy cooking!