# Components:
→ Chicken
01 - 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved horizontally to make 4 cutlets (about 1 lb)
02 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
03 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
→ Breading
04 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
05 - 2 large eggs
06 - 1 tablespoon water
07 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
08 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
09 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
10 - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herb blend
→ Toppings
11 - 1 cup marinara sauce
12 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
13 - 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
14 - Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
→ Finishing
15 - Olive oil spray or neutral oil in a mister, as needed
# Method:
01 - Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes to ensure a hot, even cooking environment.
02 - Pat the chicken cutlets dry and season both sides evenly with the kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
03 - Arrange three shallow bowls: one with the all-purpose flour, one with the eggs whisked with 1 tablespoon water, and one with the panko, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and dried Italian herbs; mix the breadcrumb bowl so ingredients are evenly distributed.
04 - Dredge each cutlet in flour, shaking off excess, dip into the egg wash, then press into the panko mixture until thoroughly coated and adherent.
05 - Place the breaded cutlets in a single layer in the air fryer basket leaving space between pieces; lightly spray the tops with olive oil spray to promote browning.
06 - Air fry at 400°F for 8 minutes to develop a golden crust on the first side.
07 - Flip each cutlet, spray lightly again, and air fry for an additional 4 minutes until the crust is crisp and the internal temperature approaches 160–162°F.
08 - Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of marinara over each cutlet, distribute shredded mozzarella evenly, and sprinkle with 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan.
09 - Return to the air fryer and cook 2–3 minutes more, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F; remove and let rest 2–3 minutes.
10 - Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired and serve immediately with spaghetti, a green salad, or steamed vegetables.
