Crispy, cheesy, and oh-so-easy! These Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Ready in minutes with a golden, crunchy crust.
Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches – Easy & Irresistible!
If you love a good sandwich for lunch or a quick weeknight dinner, you’re going to adore this one. These Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches are golden, crunchy, and topped with melty mozzarella and tangy marinara—all in under 30 minutes. The air fryer makes getting perfectly crispy chicken a breeze, without the mess of deep frying.
We’re big fans of easy chicken sandwiches here, and if you’re craving more, you can also check out my Air Fried Tuscan Chicken Sandwich and Crispy Air-Fried Greek Tzatziki Chicken Sandwiches—both just as simple and full of flavor. This Parmesan sandwich is a fast, satisfying way to enjoy a classic favorite any night of the week.
What Ingredients Do I Need?
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these crispy, cheesy sandwiches. I’ve skipped the measurements here so you can get a feel for the ingredients first.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Tender and juicy, the perfect base for our crispy cutlets.
- Eggs – Help the coating stick beautifully to the chicken.
- All-purpose flour – Creates the first layer of coating so the crumbs hold tight.
- Parmesan cheese – Adds salty, nutty flavor right in the dredge.
- Italian seasoning – A quick blend of herbs to give the chicken extra flavor.
- Black pepper – Just enough kick to balance the richness.
- Crushed corn flakes – Our crispy coating! They stay light, golden, and crunchy in the air fryer.
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray – Helps the coating turn crisp and golden without extra oil.
- Marinara sauce – Tangy and flavorful, the classic Chicken Parmesan partner.
- Fresh mozzarella cheese – Melts into gooey perfection over the chicken.
- Sandwich rolls or hamburger buns – Soft and toasty, the perfect way to serve it up.
Substitutions and Variations
Want to make this recipe your own? Here are some easy swaps and flavor twists:
- Chicken: Try turkey cutlets or even thin pork chops for a different spin.
- Corn flakes: Panko breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers work if that’s what you have on hand.
- Cheese: Provolone or fontina can replace mozzarella for a different melty vibe.
- Sauce: Swap marinara with a spicy arrabbiata for extra kick.
- Rolls: Use ciabatta rolls, focaccia, or even garlic bread for an indulgent upgrade.
- Healthier twist: Serve the cutlets open-faced over a salad instead of on a roll.
Kitchen Tips
- Parmesan Placement: Since crushed corn flakes are lighter and less dense than traditional breadcrumbs, mixing the Parmesan with the flour during the dredging step helps it stick to the chicken evenly instead of falling to the bottom.
- For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle a little Parmesan on top of the marinara just before adding the mozzarella.
- Make sure cutlets are evenly pounded for consistent cooking and crispiness.
- Work in batches if your air fryer basket is small to avoid overcrowding.
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