Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Breast

Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Breast is the perfect way to enjoy crunchy, juicy chicken without deep frying. It delivers the same satisfying texture and flavor of classic fried chicken with a fraction of the oil and calories. This simple, wholesome recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Outside, Juicy Inside: The air fryer locks in moisture while crisping up the coating beautifully.
• Healthier Fried Chicken: Get that classic crunch without all the grease.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish.
• Versatile: Serve it with veggies, slice it over salads, or add it to sandwiches and wraps.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Cooking spray or olive oil spray

Directions

1. Prep the chicken
   Slice chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets. Pat dry with paper towels.
2. Set up breading stations
   • In the first bowl: Mix flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
   • In the second bowl: Beat the eggs.
   • In the third bowl: Mix panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Bread the chicken
   Dredge each cutlet in the flour, then dip into the egg, and finally coat well in the breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs firmly to help them stick.
4. Preheat the air fryer
   Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for 3-5 minutes.
5. Cook
   Lightly spray both the basket and the chicken with cooking spray. Arrange chicken in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 10 minutes, flip, spray again, and cook for another 5-7 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Rest and serve
   Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then serve whole or slice it for sandwiches, salads, or wraps.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2–4 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15–17 minutes
• Total Time: About 25–30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the egg mixture for heat.
• Herb-Infused: Mix dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary into the breadcrumbs.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a celiac-safe version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes to maintain crispiness.
• Freezing: Freeze breaded, uncooked chicken cutlets or cooked leftovers for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and stay extra juicy. Adjust cook time as needed.

How do I keep the breading from falling off?

Pat the chicken dry, and make sure to press the coating firmly onto the chicken. Let it rest a few minutes before air frying.

Should I flip the chicken halfway through cooking?

Yes, flipping ensures both sides get crispy and evenly browned.

Can I make these ahead of time?

You can bread the chicken and refrigerate it for a few hours before cooking. Cooked chicken also reheats well in the air fryer.

What dipping sauces go well with this?

Try honey mustard, ranch, BBQ sauce, sriracha mayo, or garlic aioli.

Do I have to use Parmesan cheese?

No, but it adds a delicious salty, nutty flavor. You can skip it or replace it with more breadcrumbs.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer, which can prevent crisping.

Do I need to marinate the chicken?

Not for this recipe, but you can brine it or marinate briefly in buttermilk for extra tenderness.

What’s the best way to cut the chicken?

For even cooking, slice large breasts horizontally into thinner cutlets before breading.

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

Yes, but panko gives the best crispy texture. Regular breadcrumbs will work but will be slightly softer.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Breast is a fast, flavorful, and healthy alternative to traditional fried chicken. Whether served whole, sliced in salads, or layered on sandwiches, it’s a satisfying meal with a crunchy twist that you’ll want to make again and again.

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