Extra Crispy Air Fryer Chicken (Print)

Juicy chicken cutlets with a crispy coating made easily using an air fryer for healthier cooking.

# What you'll need:

→ Chicken

01 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)

→ Breading

02 - 1 cup all-purpose flour (120 g)
03 - 2 large eggs
04 - 2 tablespoons milk
05 - 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs (90 g)
06 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (40 g)
07 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
08 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
09 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
10 - 1 teaspoon salt
11 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
12 - Olive oil spray

# Directions:

01 - Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes.
02 - Place chicken breasts between parchment sheets and pound to 1/2-inch thickness.
03 - Arrange three shallow bowls: flour; eggs beaten with milk; and panko mixed with Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
04 - Dredge each breast in flour, dip into egg mixture, then coat thoroughly with seasoned panko, pressing to adhere.
05 - Lightly spray both sides of breaded cutlets with olive oil spray.
06 - Place cutlets in a single layer in air fryer basket (cook batches if necessary).
07 - Cook for 7–8 minutes, flip, spray again, then cook an additional 6–7 minutes until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
08 - Let cutlets rest for 2 minutes before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The air fryer does the heavy lifting—you get restaurant-quality crunch without the splatter and oil mess of traditional frying.
  • Four breasts means you'll have leftovers that taste just as good cold in a sandwich the next day.
  • It's the rare healthy dinner that doesn't feel like you're sacrificing anything.
02 -
  • Don't skip the pounding step; uneven thickness means some pieces cook faster than others, and you'll end up with dry spots.
  • If your breadcrumb coating seems to be browning too fast while the inside isn't done, lower the temperature to 380°F and add a minute or two—every air fryer runs a bit different.
03 -
  • Don't pound the chicken too thin or it becomes tough when cooked; aim for an even 1/2 inch, which gives you the best texture balance.
  • Keep your air fryer basket dry before adding cutlets—any residual moisture will steam rather than crisp.
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