Ingredients
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon granulated garlic
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Extra olive oil for brushing
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (8 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- Extra basil for garnish
- 6 oz low-moisture mozzarella cheese, grated
(Do not use fresh mozzarella)
Method / Directions
Step 1: Prepare Breading Stations
Take three shallow bowls.
- In the first bowl, add all-purpose flour and keep aside.
- In the second bowl, crack the eggs, add granulated garlic, 2 tablespoons water, salt and pepper. Whisk well until smooth.
- In the third bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese. Drizzle olive oil over it and mix well so crumbs are lightly coated.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Cut each chicken breast horizontally to make thin cutlets.
- Place chicken between plastic wrap and gently pound until even thickness.
- Put chicken in a bowl and add lemon juice. Toss well to coat.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
- First coat each chicken cutlet in flour. Shake off excess.
- Dip into egg mixture, letting extra drip off.
- Coat well with panko mixture, pressing crumbs gently so they stick properly.
- Place breaded chicken on a parchment-lined plate and let rest for 5 minutes.
Step 4: Air Fry the Chicken
- Preheat air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
- Brush air fryer basket generously with olive oil.
- Place 2 chicken cutlets in the basket (do not overcrowd).
- Air fry for 6 minutes, until lightly golden.
- Flip using tongs and cook for another 7–9 minutes, until crispy and fully cooked.
- Chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) internally.
- Remove and repeat with remaining cutlets.
Step 5: Add Sauce & Cheese
- Place 2 cooked cutlets back into the air fryer basket.
- Spread 4 tablespoons marinara sauce on each cutlet.
- Sprinkle chopped basil on top.
- Add grated mozzarella cheese and remaining Parmesan.
Step 6: Final Melt
- Increase air fryer temperature to 400°F (200°C).
- Air fry for 2–3 minutes, until cheese melts and lightly browns.
- Repeat topping and melting process with remaining cutlets.
Final Touch
- Garnish with extra fresh basil.
- Serve hot with pasta, garlic bread, or salad.
