Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pound the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them to an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick. This ensures even cooking.
- Season the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Bread the Chicken
- Set Up Breading Station: Set up three shallow dishes—one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, and paprika.
- Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess. Dip it in the beaten eggs, then coat it thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs into the chicken to ensure they stick well.
Step 3: Air Fry the Chicken
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the breaded chicken breasts in a single layer in the basket. Lightly spray the tops of the chicken with cooking spray.
- Air Fry: Air fry the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is crispy and golden brown. Flip the chicken halfway through cooking for even browning.
Step 4: Prepare the Béchamel Sauce
- Make the Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to create a roux.
- Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens.
- Finish the Sauce: Stir in the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat once the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Assemble the Chicken Parmo
- Top with Sauce and Cheese: Place the cooked chicken breasts on a baking sheet or cooling rack. Spoon a generous amount of béchamel sauce over each piece. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Melt the Cheese: Return the chicken to the air fryer basket. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve with your favorite sides, such as a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or pasta.
Tips and Tricks
- Chicken Thickness: Ensure the chicken breasts are of even thickness for uniform cooking. Pounding them out helps achieve this.
- Crispy Coating: Lightly spraying the breaded chicken with cooking spray before air frying helps achieve a crispier coating.
- Sauce Consistency: If the béchamel sauce is too thick, whisk in a little more milk until the desired consistency is reached.
Conclusion
This Air Fryer Chicken Parmo is a delicious and healthier twist on the classic comfort food. The air fryer gives the chicken a crispy, golden coating without deep frying, while the creamy béchamel sauce and melted mozzarella add the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy this savory dish with your favorite sides for a satisfying meal!