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Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan Bowls - Crispy, Saucy, and Weeknight-Friendly

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • For the chicken:
  • 1.5 pounds chicken cutlets (about 4–6 thin pieces) or 2 large breasts sliced horizontally
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Olive oil spray (or neutral spray)
  • To finish:
  • 1 to 1.5 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Extra grated Parmesan, for serving
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
  • For the bowls (mix and match):
  • Cooked pasta (like penne or rotini), garlic butter rice, or cauliflower rice
  • Roasted or steamed veggies (broccoli, zucchini, green beans)
  • Fresh greens (arugula or baby spinach)
  • Optional add-ins: cherry tomatoes, balsamic glaze, red pepper flakes

Method
 

  1. Prep the chicken: If using whole breasts, slice them horizontally into thin cutlets. Pat dry. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano.
  2. Set up the breading station: Put flour in one shallow bowl, beaten eggs in a second, and panko mixed with grated Parmesan in a third.
  3. Bread the cutlets: Dredge each cutlet in flour (shake off excess), dip in egg, then press into the panko-Parmesan mix until well coated.
  4. Preheat the air fryer: Set to 390°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with oil.
  5. Air fry the chicken: Arrange breaded cutlets in a single layer without overlapping. Lightly spray the tops with oil. Cook 6–8 minutes, flip, spray again, and cook another 4–6 minutes. Chicken is done when the coating is deep golden and the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C).
  6. Add sauce and cheese: Spoon a little marinara over each cutlet and top with mozzarella. Air fry 1–2 more minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles.
  7. Prepare the base: While the chicken cooks, warm your marinara, cook pasta or rice, and prep veggies or greens. Season bases lightly with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil for flavor.
  8. Assemble the bowls: Add a scoop of pasta or rice, nestle in a cutlet (slice if you like), spoon on extra sauce, and scatter more Parmesan and fresh basil. Add veggies or greens around the edges.
  9. Finish and serve: Taste and adjust. A squeeze of lemon, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a swirl of balsamic glaze can brighten everything.