Dairy Free Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan

Total time40 min

Prep time20 min

Cook time20 min

Thin chicken cutlets get pounded to an even thickness, then breaded in crisp panko seasoned with Italian herbs and garlic powder before hitting the air fryer for that deep-golden, crackly crust. A quick blast under the heat with tangy marinara and a melted cheese topping finishes each cutlet, so you get all the bubbling, saucy comfort of the classic without ever touching a deep fryer. The result is juicy, tender chicken with serious crunch on the outside and a bright, herby tomato layer on top. Torn fresh basil at the end adds a fresh, peppery lift that cuts through the richness. It's an easy weeknight dinner that comes together in one basket with minimal cleanup, and it's a solid pick for a dairy free table.

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Ingredients

4 servings

For the chicken

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lb total)
Kroger Uncooked Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast Foster Farms Simply Raised Simply Raised Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast Fillets Simple Truth Natural Thin-Sliced Boneless and Skinless Chicken Breast Cutlets Signature Farms Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Value Pack - 3.5 Lb PERDUE FRESH CUTS Fresh Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast Strips Traypack - 1.25 Lbs
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½ tsp kosher salt
¼ tsp black pepper

For the breading

½ cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
Chef's tip
Choose a grated-style vegan parmesan and use the same amount.
1 tsp italian seasoning
½ tsp garlic powder
olive oil spray

For the topping

1 cup marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Chef's tip
If the dish is baked or melted, cover it or keep the heat gentle - dairy-free shreds melt more slowly than dairy cheese.

For serving

2 tbsp fresh basil, torn (optional)

Instructions

1
Halve each chicken breast horizontally to create 4 thin cutlets. Place each cutlet between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin to an even 1/2-inch thickness. Season both sides with the salt and pepper.
2
Set up a three-bowl breading station: flour in the first bowl, beaten eggs in the second, and panko combined with the grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder in the third.

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