Prep the Cheese: Begin by slicing the fresh mozzarella into 0.5-inch thick rounds. Ensure that the slices are even to promote uniform cooking. Place them on a paper towel to absorb excess moisture.
Set Up Breading Stations: Prepare three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, add the flour. In the second bowl, add the beaten eggs. In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Bread the Mozzarella Slices: Take a slice of mozzarella and coat it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it's fully coated. Finally, transfer it to the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs well. Repeat this process for all mozzarella slices.
Chill the Coated Slices: Place the breaded mozzarella slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze the slices for about 30 minutes. This step helps the coating adhere better during cooking.
Prepare the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F while the mozzarella slices are chilling. Lightly spray the basket with cooking oil spray.
Air Fry the Mozzarella Slices: Once chilled, arrange the mozzarella slices in the air fryer basket. Ensure they are in a single layer without overcrowding – you may need to do this in batches. Lightly spray the tops of the slices with cooking oil.
Cook Until Golden: Air fry for about 5 to 7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the mozzarella slices are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Serve: Carefully remove the mozzarella slices and let them cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed alone or paired with marinara sauce for dipping.