A Crispy Italian Classic Made Easy in the Air Fryer
Air Fryer Chicken Milanese is a delectable and healthier twist on a classic Italian dish. Made with boneless chicken breasts coated in a crunchy, golden breadcrumb and Parmesan crust, this recipe utilizes the air fryer to achieve the perfect crispiness without the excess oil of traditional frying. It’s a great choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions, delivering the rich flavors of Milanese with a fraction of the fat. Serve this dish with a fresh salad, pasta, or your favorite side for a complete and satisfying meal. The air fryer ensures each bite is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making this a family favorite you’ll return to time and again.
Air Fryer Chicken Milanese is a versatile dish perfect for casual dinners, family gatherings, or special occasions like Easter or summer cookouts. Its light, crispy texture pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or pasta, making it a great choice for celebratory meals.
How to Make From Scratch Chicken Milanese
- Begin by flattening your chicken breasts to an even thickness.
- Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and a seasoned breadcrumb mixture. Dip each chicken piece in the flour, followed by the eggs, and finally the breadcrumbs.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and spray the basket with a light coating of oil.
- Place the breaded chicken in the basket, ensuring they don’t overlap.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and crispy.
When to Flip Chicken Milanese
Flip the chicken halfway through cooking, around the 5-6 minute mark, for even browning.
How to Reheat Chicken Milanese
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes, ensuring the chicken stays crispy without drying out.
Can You Save Batter Chicken Milanese?
For optimal results, the breading should be used immediately. If you have leftover batter, it’s best not to save it as it will lose its texture.
Can You Freeze Chicken Milanese?
Yes! You can freeze breaded, uncooked chicken for up to 3 months. Place the breaded chicken on a tray, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, air fry directly from frozen, adding an extra 5-7 minutes to the cooking time.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
Directions:
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet.
- Prepare the breading station: in one bowl, add flour; in another, whisk the eggs; and in the third, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
- Coat each chicken breast first in flour, then in egg, and finally in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F and lightly spray the basket with oil.
- Place chicken breasts in the basket, ensuring they don’t overlap.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.
- Serve immediately with a side of fresh salad or pasta.
Editor’s Note:
For a gluten-free option, substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour. You can also add extra herbs to the breading for a flavor boost.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 540mg
