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Crispy Chicken Breast in Air Fryer –

Crispy Chicken Breast in Air Fryer Recipe: The Ultimate Guide to a Delicious and Healthy Meal

Description

Welcome to our ultimate guide on how to make Crispy Chicken Breast in Air Fryer—a recipe that combines the flavor and crunch of fried chicken with a healthy twist. If you’re a fan of quick, easy, and tasty meals, you’re in the right place! Air fryers have transformed home cooking by offering a way to enjoy crispy meals with less oil. This recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to make a healthier version of fried chicken with just a fraction of the oil used in traditional recipes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Crispy Chicken Breast in Air Fryer recipe gives you all the golden-brown deliciousness of fried chicken without the mess or guilt. It’s quick to make, easy to prepare, and uses simple ingredients that are probably already in your pantry. The seasoned breadcrumb coating locks in the moisture while creating a crispy, savory crust that’s perfect for dinner, lunch, or even meal prep!

Ingredients

Scale

 

  • 2 large boneless chicken breasts (cut into fillets or cutlets)
  • 1 tablespoon oil (olive or vegetable)
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the bread coating:

  • ½ cup fine breadcrumbs (can be substituted with gluten-free breadcrumbs for dietary restrictions)
  • 1 tablespoon flour (all-purpose, but feel free to use almond flour for a low-carb option)
  • 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 version)

Optional Substitutions:

  • If you’re gluten-intolerant, substitute regular flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
  • Looking to cut carbs? Swap out the breadcrumbs for crushed pork rinds or almond flour.

Instructions

 

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Cut your chicken breasts into fillets or cutlets for even cooking. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the thickest part of each fillet, ensuring even thickness throughout. This helps the chicken cook evenly.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of oil, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Coat the chicken fillets evenly with this mixture, making sure every piece is well-seasoned.

Step 3: Prepare the Bread Coating

In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, basil, chili powder (or paprika), and an additional ½ teaspoon of salt. Mix everything well to create a flavorful coating.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Take each chicken fillet and press it into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coat on both sides. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks.

Step 5: Air Fry the Chicken

Place the coated chicken breasts into the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overlapping. Set the air fryer to 200°C / 390°F and cook for 8-9 minutes. Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 4 minutes to ensure both sides are crispy.

Step 6: Let It Rest

Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This helps lock in the juices, making the chicken extra tender when sliced.

Equipment

Notes

  • Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh spices and herbs for the best flavor. Stale spices can dull the taste of the breading.
  • Bread Crumb Texture: Use fine breadcrumbs for a smooth, even coating, or panko for a crunchier texture.
  • Prevent Overcrowding: Make sure to leave space between each piece of chicken in the air fryer basket for even cooking.

Find it online: https://optimalrecipes.com/crispy-chicken-breast-in-air-fryer-easy-healthy-recipe/