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Homemade Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken Parmesan photo

Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken Parmesan

Crispy, cheesy stuffed chicken breasts cooked in the air fryer for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Servings: 2 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 4 slices low-moisture mozzarella cheese divided
  • 8 leaves fresh basil
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • sliced fresh basil optional, for garnish

Instructions

  • Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (182°C) for 5 minutes.
  • Using a sharp knife, cut a deep pocket lengthwise into each chicken breast without cutting through to the other side.
  • Divide the mozzarella slices: cut each slice in half if needed, then stuff each chicken pocket with two halves (one whole slice worth) of mozzarella and 4 fresh basil leaves per breast.
  • Secure the openings with toothpicks to keep the filling inside.
  • In a shallow bowl combine Panko, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, grated Parmesan, kosher salt, and black pepper.
  • Place the flour in a second shallow bowl and the beaten eggs in a third bowl.
  • Dredge each stuffed chicken breast first in flour, shaking off excess, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally press into the Panko mixture to coat evenly on all sides.
  • Arrange the coated chicken breasts in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding.
  • Cook at 360°F for 20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • When cooking is complete, spoon marinara sauce over each breast and top with the remaining mozzarella slice (cut if needed), then air fry for 1 additional minute until the cheese melts.
  • Remove toothpicks, garnish with sliced fresh basil if using, and serve.

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Sharp Knife
  • three shallow bowls
  • Mixing Spoon
  • Toothpicks

Notes

  • Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
  • Ensure the air fryer is fully preheated for even cooking.
  • Do not overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if necessary.