Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Breast

Enjoy a healthier take on a classic favorite with this Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Breast recipe. Achieve a golden, crunchy exterior and juicy interior without the need for deep frying. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a nutritious addition to your meal prep routine.​Little Sunny Kitchen+1Pinch of Yum+1

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Option: Enjoy the crispy texture of fried chicken with significantly less oil.​Real Simple
• Quick and Convenient: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules.​Better Homes & Gardens+1Better Homes & Gardens+1
• Versatile: Pairs well with a variety of sides and can be used in sandwiches, salads, or as a main dish.​
• Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that appeals to both adults and children.​Budget Bytes

Ingredients

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

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts​
• All-purpose flour​
• Eggs​Healthful Blondie
• Panko breadcrumbs​Budget Bytes+10The flavours of kitchen+10Delish+10
• Parmesan cheese​
• Olive oil or cooking spray​
• Seasonings: salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder​

Directions

1. Prepare the Breading Stations: Set up three shallow bowls—one with flour mixed with a pinch of salt and pepper, the second with beaten eggs, and the third with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, paprika, and garlic powder.​Creme De La Crumb+1The Big Man’s World ®+1
2. Coat the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry. Dredge each piece first in the flour, ensuring an even coat; then dip into the beaten eggs; and finally press into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure all sides are well-coated.​
3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.​
4. Cook the Chicken: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the breaded chicken breasts in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they don’t overlap. Lightly spray the tops of the chicken with cooking spray to enhance crispiness.​
5. Air Fry: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes. Flip the chicken breasts over, spray lightly with cooking spray, and continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the exterior is golden brown and crispy.​
6. Serve: Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve hot with your choice of sides.​

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves 2-4 people, depending on the size of the chicken breasts.​
• Preparation Time: Approximately 10 minutes.​Kristine’s Kitchen+1Foodess+1
• Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes.​
• Total Time: Approximately 25-27 minutes.​

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicier version.​
• Herb-Infused: Incorporate dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil into the breadcrumbs for added flavor.​
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary restrictions.​
• Cheese Lover’s: Mix in different cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella with the breadcrumbs for a cheesier crust.​

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.​
• Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the coating soggy.​Healthful Blondie

FAQs

How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?

Avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Also, letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking helps retain its juices.​

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

Yes, but panko breadcrumbs yield a crunchier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.​The flavours of kitchen

Is it necessary to preheat the air fryer?

Preheating ensures even cooking and helps achieve a crispy exterior.​Latest news & breaking headlines

Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

You can bread the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours before cooking.​

What sides pair well with this dish?

This chicken pairs well with salads, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light pasta dish.​Platings + Pairings+1Pinch of Yum+1

Can I freeze the cooked chicken?

Yes, freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the air fryer to restore crispiness.​Better Homes & Gardens

How do I prevent the breading from falling off?

Ensure each layer of breading is pressed firmly onto the chicken and avoid moving the chicken excessively during cooking.​

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, adjust the cooking time as needed since thighs may require a few additional minutes.​

What if I don’t have cooking spray?

Lightly brush the chicken with olive oil instead to achieve a crispy texture.​

Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?

For a lower-carb option, use almond flour and crushed pork rinds instead of flour and breadcrumbs.​

Conclusion

This Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Breast recipe offers a delightful combination of a crunchy exterior and tender, juicy interior without the excess oil of traditional frying methods. It’s a versatile and healthier option that’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy experimenting

Print