Description
Welcome to our kitchen! Today, we’re diving into the wonderful world of air frying with a recipe that combines all the deliciousness of crispy chicken without the extra calories from deep-frying. If you’re a fan of easy, quick, and healthy meals, then this Crispy Chicken Breast in Air Fryer is the perfect choice for you. With just a teaspoon of oil, you’ll get golden, crispy chicken that’s moist and tender on the inside—exactly what you’d expect from your favorite fried chicken spot but without the guilt.
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless Chicken Breasts (cut into fillets)
- 1 tablespoon oil (olive oil, canola, or avocado oil)
- ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the bread coating:
- ½ cup fine breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
- 1 tablespoon flour (all-purpose or gluten-free alternative)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (or paprika for a milder option)
Optional substitutions:
- Swap breadcrumbs with panko for a crunchier texture.
- Use almond flour or oat flour for a low-carb or gluten-free option.
Instructions
Here’s a simple guide to making this delicious air-fried crispy chicken breast at home. With these step-by-step instructions, you’ll have a perfect meal ready in no time:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breasts into even-sized fillets or cutlets. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the thicker parts to ensure even cooking. This is important for getting that crispy, uniform texture.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a bowl, mix together the oil, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken fillets evenly with this mixture. The oil helps the coating stick while also ensuring the chicken gets that golden, crispy finish in the air fryer.
Step 3: Prepare the Breading
In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, basil, salt, and chili powder. Mix well to create the seasoned breading mixture.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Place each chicken fillet in the breading mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres. Flip and coat the other side as well.
Step 5: Air Fry the Chicken
Place the coated chicken fillets in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not touching. Set the air fryer to 200°C (390°F) and cook for 8-9 minutes. Flip the fillets halfway through and cook for an additional 4 minutes, or until the chicken is crispy and fully cooked through.
Equipment

2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- Marinate the chicken in buttermilk for an hour before coating for a juicier texture.
- To avoid overcrowding, cook the chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the basket can result in uneven cooking.