Description
This crispy air fryer chicken breast recipe delivers all the crunch and juiciness of fried chicken with far less oil. Quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a healthier option that pairs well with salads, wraps, or your favorite sides.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking spray
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- If thick, pound to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
Step 2: Set Up Breading Station
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together egg and water.
- In another bowl, mix panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
- Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, fully coating it.
- Press into the breadcrumb mixture to coat evenly.
- Lightly spray or brush with olive oil for crisping.
Step 4: Air Fry
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
- Place chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 10 minutes, flip, then cook another 6-8 minutes until crispy and golden brown.
- Ensure an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 5: Serve
- Let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve with dipping sauce or side dishes.
Notes
- Spicy Version: Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper to the breadcrumbs.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free panko.
- Dairy-Free: Omit Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Storage: Refrigerate for up to 3 days; freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 4-5 minutes for crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 16-18 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: air fryer
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: air fryer chicken breast, crispy chicken breast, easy weeknight dinner, healthy fried chicken, panko chicken