Instructions
Place flour in a shallow bowl.
In a second shallow bowl, beat eggs, garlic, 2 tablespoons water, and 3/4 teaspoon salt.
In a third shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs with 1/3 cup Parmesan and toss with oil.
Pound each cutlet to an even thickness and toss with lemon juice to coat.
Dip each cutlet in flour, then in eggs, then in the breadcrumb mixture, patting to adhere.
Heat the air fryer to 360°F.
Air-fry cutlets for 6 minutes, then flip and air-fry for 7 minutes more until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Top cooked cutlets with marinara, basil, mozzarella, and remaining Parmesan.
Heat the air fryer to 400°F and air-fry for 2 minutes until the cheese is browned.
Pro Tips
Pound the chicken cutlets to an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking.
Use low-moisture mozzarella instead of fresh mozzarella to prevent the dish from becoming soggy.
Pat the breadcrumb mixture onto the chicken to ensure it adheres properly.
Let excess egg drip off the chicken before coating in breadcrumbs to avoid a clumpy crust.