Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
- Cutting board
- Knife
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Optional
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryerPreheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3 minutes.
- Prepare the chickenPat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If needed, pound them lightly for more even cooking.
- Season the chickenIn a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, minced garlic, parmesan, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and optional Italian seasoning.
- Coat the chickenRub the mixture over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Place in the basketArrange the chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fryCook for 14 to 16 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.
- Rest and serveLet the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with parsley and a little extra parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Freshly grated parmesan works best for flavor and texture.
- Cooking time depends on chicken breast thickness.
- Use a meat thermometer for the best results.
- Add lemon juice after cooking for a brighter finish.
Ingredients at a Glance
Nutrition
Per serving:
Calories: 275
Protein: 37g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fat: 11g
Fiber: 0g
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken
1. Pat the chicken dry
Dry chicken helps the seasoning stick better and improves texture.
2. Mix the garlic parmesan coating
Combine oil, garlic, parmesan, and seasonings in a small bowl.
3. Coat the chicken evenly
Rub the mixture over both sides so every bite is flavorful.
4. Air fry until cooked through
Cook for 14 to 16 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5. Rest before slicing
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to keep it juicy.
Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken
- Use freshly grated parmesan if possible
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning
- Pound thick pieces lightly for even cooking
- Flip halfway through cooking
- Check for 165°F with a thermometer
- Let the chicken rest before slicing
Easy Variations
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Add lemon juice after cooking for a brighter flavor.
Spicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Add chili flakes or cayenne to the seasoning mix.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Use chicken tenders instead of breasts and reduce cook time slightly.
Herb Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Add Italian seasoning or dried oregano for extra flavor.
What to Serve With Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken
Serve it with:
- roasted vegetables
- rice or quinoa
- mashed potatoes
- salads
- pasta
- meal prep bowls
How to Store and Reheat
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3 to 4 minutes, or until warmed through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking
Chicken breast can dry out quickly if cooked too long.
Using too much parmesan
Too much cheese can melt unevenly and create excess mess in the basket.
Skipping the rest time
Resting helps keep the chicken juicy.
Not checking thickness
Uneven pieces may cook at different speeds.
FAQ
How long does garlic parmesan chicken take in the air fryer?
Most chicken breasts take about 14 to 16 minutes at 380°F, depending on thickness.
Can I make garlic parmesan chicken with chicken thighs?
Yes. Chicken thighs work well and usually come out extra juicy, though cook time may vary.
Is garlic parmesan air fryer chicken healthy?
Yes. It is high in protein and can fit well into a balanced meal plan.
Can I use grated parmesan from a container?
Yes, but freshly grated parmesan usually gives better flavor and texture.
Why is my parmesan falling off?
The chicken may be too wet, or the coating may need a little oil to help it stick.
More High-Protein Air Fryer Chicken Recipes
- Air Fryer Chicken Breast
- Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Breast
- Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
- Air Fryer Chicken Bites
- Air Fryer Chicken Meal Prep
Save This Recipe for Later
Save this Air Fryer Chicken Tenders recipe to Pinterest so you can come back to it for quick dinners, healthy lunches, and easy meal prep.
