Gluten-Free Chicken Parmesan Recipe

This Gluten-Free Chicken Parmesan is a crispy, flavorful dish made with tender chicken breasts, seasoned gluten-free bread crumbs, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. Whether you follow a gluten-free diet or simply want a healthier version of the classic chicken parmesan, this easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. You can even make it dairy-free by using dairy-free mozzarella cheese. Cooked in an air fryer for a crispy yet healthier finish, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings!

Ingredients

• 4 oz chicken breast (preferably Springer Mountain Farms chicken, or any chicken breast)
• ¾ cup gluten-free bread crumbs
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 egg
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (use dairy-free mozzarella to make this dish dairy-free)

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Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken: Flatten the chicken breasts using a meat tenderizer for even cooking.
2. Prepare the Coating: In a bowl, combine the gluten-free bread crumbs, grated parmesan, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and parsley.
3. Egg Wash: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg.
4. Coat the Chicken: Rub olive oil on the air fryer tray. Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, shaking off any excess, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture.
5. Air Fry the Chicken: Place the coated chicken breasts on the air fryer tray and lightly spray with olive oil. Cook at 390°F for 7 minutes.
6. Flip and Continue Cooking: Carefully flip the chicken and cook for another 7 minutes at 390°F.
7. Add Sauce and Cheese: Top the chicken with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese. Air fry at 400°F for 1 more minute to melt the cheese.
8. Serve: Remove from the air fryer and drizzle with more sauce and cheese if desired.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Gluten-Free: This gluten-free version of chicken parmesan is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, all without any gluten.
• Quick and Easy: With the help of an air fryer, this dish cooks up quickly in just about 15 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
• Customizable: Make it dairy-free with a swap for dairy-free mozzarella and enjoy a delicious, allergy-friendly version of this classic comfort food.
• Low in Fat: Cooking in the air fryer allows the chicken to crisp up without using excess oil, making it a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken parmesan.

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Tips

• Use Fresh Chicken Breasts: For best results, use fresh, not frozen, chicken breasts to ensure even cooking.
• Flatten the Chicken Evenly: Tenderizing the chicken helps it cook evenly and quickly, keeping it juicy and tender inside.
• Customize the Bread Crumbs: If you prefer a different texture, you can use homemade gluten-free bread crumbs or substitute them with crushed gluten-free crackers.
• Add Extra Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Adding Italian seasoning, basil, or red pepper flakes can give the dish an extra burst of flavor.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free mozzarella to make this recipe completely dairy-free.
• Chicken Cutlets: If you prefer smaller portions, use chicken cutlets instead of whole breasts for quicker cooking times.
• Baked Version: If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the chicken in a regular oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes.
• Add Veggies: Consider serving the chicken parmesan with a side of sautéed spinach or zucchini noodles for a healthy, low-carb meal.

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FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
It’s recommended to use fresh chicken breasts for this recipe, as frozen chicken may require additional cooking time and might not cook evenly in the air fryer.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can coat the chicken breasts and refrigerate them for up to 4 hours before cooking. Then, just air fry and top with cheese and sauce when ready.

Can I use a regular oven instead of an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake the breaded chicken at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for an even crispy texture.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Serve with Pasta: This gluten-free chicken parmesan pairs wonderfully with gluten-free pasta, such as spaghetti or penne.
• Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette is a great complement to the rich flavors of chicken parmesan.
• Garlic Bread: For extra indulgence, serve the chicken parmesan with gluten-free garlic bread on the side.
• Veggies: Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini make for a healthy side dish to balance the richness of the meal.

This Gluten-Free Chicken Parmesan is a quick, flavorful, and healthier take on the classic, perfect for gluten-free diets and anyone craving a delicious, satisfying dinner!