Print

Crispy Chicken Breast in Air Fryer

Crispy Chicken Breast in Air Fryer
Print Recipe

This Crispy Chicken Breast in Air Fryer recipe delivers everything you love about fried chicken—crispy, golden coating and juicy meat—without the extra oil or mess. Thanks to the air fryer, you get a healthier meal that’s quick, simple, and packed with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a satisfying lunch, this recipe uses pantry staples and comes together effortlessly.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 2 large boneless chicken breasts, cut into fillets or cutlets

  • 1 tablespoon oil (olive or vegetable)

  • ¼ teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Bread Coating

  • ½ cup fine breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)

  • 1 tablespoon flour (all-purpose or almond flour)

  • 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 mild heat)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Slice the chicken breasts into fillets or cutlets. Pound the thicker areas with a meat mallet or rolling pin so all pieces are even in thickness. This ensures even cooking.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a small bowl, mix oil, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture evenly over each chicken fillet.

Step 3: Make the Bread Coating

In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, basil, chili powder (or paprika), and salt. Mix well.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Press each chicken fillet firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly. Lightly press so the coating sticks.

Step 5: Air Fry

Preheat the air fryer to 200°C / 390°F.
Place the chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer without overlapping.
Cook for 8–9 minutes, flip, then cook for 4 more minutes until golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Rest

Remove the chicken and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy and tender.

Notes

  • Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket—air circulation is key for crispiness.

  • Use fresh spices for the most flavorful coating.

  • Flip carefully using tongs to keep the crust intact.

  • If chicken is very thick, add 1–2 extra minutes of cooking time.

Find it online: https://tastyquickly.com/crispy-chicken-breast-in-air-fryer/