Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless Chicken Breasts (approx. 5 oz / 140g each, thinly pounded)
  • ½ tsp Kosher Salt
  • ¼ tsp Black Pepper
  • ½ cup All-Purpose Flour
  • 1 large Egg (lightly beaten)
  • 1 Tbsp Water (for the egg wash)
  • 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup finely Grated Parmesan Cheese
  • 1 tsp Dried Italian Seasoning
  • ½ tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1 cup Quality Low-Sodium Marinara Sauce
  • 4 oz Part-Skim Fresh Mozzarella (sliced into 4 thin discs)
  • Fresh Basil leaves (for garnish)
  • Olive Oil Cooking Spray

Instructions:

  1. Pound the Fillets: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of cling film or parchment paper. Using a meat pounder, gently pound the thick end of each fillet until the chicken is about ¾ inch (2 cm) thick throughout. Season both sides of the fillets evenly with the salt and pepper.
  2. Set Up the Breading Station: Prepare three shallow dishes. Dish 1: Flour. Dish 2: Whisk the egg and water together for the egg wash. Dish 3: Combine the Panko, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Mix well.
  3. Dredge and Coat: Dredge one chicken breast completely in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip the floured chicken into the egg wash, ensuring it is fully coated. Immediately press the chicken firmly into the Panko mixture on both sides, ensuring the coating adheres completely. Place on a wire rack while you prepare the remaining fillets.
  4. Initial Air Fryer Cooking: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes. Lightly mist both sides of the breaded chicken with cooking spray. Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket (do not overlap). Cook for 8 minutes.
  5. Flip and Top: Carefully flip the chicken. Spoon ¼ cup of the warm marinara sauce over each fillet, then top with one slice of fresh mozzarella.
  6. Finish Cooking: Return to the air fryer and cook for another 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the internal temperature of the chicken registers 165°F (74°C).
  7. Serve: Remove the chicken and let it rest for 2 minutes. Sprinkle liberally with fresh basil leaves before serving.