Air Fry Chicken Parmigiana

The air fryer chicken parmigiana combines crispy breaded chicken with gooey melted cheese and tangy marinara sauce for a mouthwatering meal that is sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the tomato sauce

• 1 small garlic clove, chopped
• ½ onion, thinly sliced
• 1 small carrot, peeled and sliced
• 100g/3½oz cherry tomatoes, halved
• olive oil spray
• small handful basil leaves
• salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the chicken

• 2 chicken breasts
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 50g/1¾oz panko breadcrumbs
• 15g/½oz Parmesan, finely grated
• 50g/1¾oz mozzarella, sliced
• small handful parsley leaves

Method

1. Combine garlic, onion, carrot, and cherry tomatoes in a pan and cook for 8-10 minutes on the hob until soft. Transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor, add basil, and blend until smooth. Set aside.
2. For the chicken, place the chicken between two sheets of baking paper and flatten to about 2cm/¾in thickness using a rolling pin.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 200°C.
4. Beat the egg in a small bowl and mix panko breadcrumbs with most of the Parmesan in a separate bowl.
5. Coat the chicken in the egg mixture and then in the Parmesan breadcrumbs, ensuring an even coating.
6. Place the chicken in the air fryer and cook for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
7. Once the chicken is golden and cooked through, top each piece with half of the tomato sauce, mozzarella, and reserved Parmesan. Return to the air fryer for 3 minutes to melt the cheese. Garnish with parsley before serving.

You might be interested in exploring the origins of traditional Italian cuisine, particularly with dishes like chicken parmigiana, by reading about its rich history on Italian cuisine. Additionally, if you’re curious about the health benefits of cooking with an air fryer, check out this overview on air fryers. Finally, for some inspiration on other delicious sauces that can elevate your meals, take a look at the variety of tomato sauces available at tomato sauce. Happy cooking!