Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Italian seasoning or dried oregano
For the Coating
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon milk or water
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko)
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
For the Filling and Topping
- 1 to 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup marinara sauce or tomato sauce (optional but recommended)
For Cooking
- Olive oil spray or brush
- Optional fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Preparation Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board. If they are thick, carefully slice them horizontally to create thinner cutlets. This helps the chicken cook evenly and allows the cheese to melt properly.
Pat the chicken dry using paper towels. This is important because moisture prevents the coating from sticking well.
Season both sides of each chicken piece with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Press the seasoning gently into the meat so it sticks.
Set the chicken aside while you prepare the coating stations.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Stations
You will need three shallow bowls.
In the first bowl, add the flour.
In the second bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them with the milk or water until smooth.
In the third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs and grated parmesan cheese thoroughly.
This three-step coating process ensures a crispy, even crust.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Take one piece of chicken and coat it lightly in flour. Shake off any excess flour.
Dip the floured chicken into the egg mixture, making sure it is fully covered.
Place the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently on both sides so the crumbs stick well.
Repeat this process for each piece of chicken. Place the breaded chicken on a plate and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the coating stay on during cooking.
Air Frying the Chicken
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 to 5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and crispiness.
Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 5: First Cook
Place the breaded chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd.
Lightly spray the tops of the chicken with olive oil.
Cook for 7 to 8 minutes. Then flip the chicken carefully, spray again lightly, and cook for another 6 to 7 minutes.
At this stage, the chicken should be nearly cooked through and golden on both sides.
Adding the Mozzarella Cheese
Step 6: Sauce and Cheese Layer
Remove the basket and spoon a small amount of marinara sauce on top of each chicken piece. Spread it gently without disturbing the crust.
Add a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce.
Be careful not to add too much cheese to the edges, as it may drip and burn.
Step 7: Final Melt
Return the chicken to the air fryer.
Lower the temperature to 350°F (175°C).
Cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and slightly bubbly.
Do not overcook at this stage, as mozzarella can become tough if overheated.
Resting and Serving
Step 8: Rest the Chicken
Carefully remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 2 to 3 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the chicken tender.
