Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3–5 minutes. Preheating helps lock in the crunch and keeps the cheese from overheating before the crust crisps.

Arrange the sticks in a single layer in the basket. Leave space between each piece so the hot air can circulate. Don’t stack or overcrowd.

Optional: Lightly mist with cooking spray or brush a tiny bit of oil on the tops. This can boost browning, especially with lighter breading.

Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 5–7 minutes. Start checking at the 5-minute mark. You want a deep golden exterior, but not so hot that cheese starts to ooze out.

If needed, flip and cook 1–2 more minutes for even browning. Some air fryers run hotter than others, so adjust in small increments.

Let them rest for 1 minute after cooking. This brief pause helps the cheese set slightly, so it doesn’t spill out when you bite in.

Serve immediately with warm marinara or your favorite dip. Sprinkle with Parmesan or parsley if you like.