Description
Ultra-crispy breaded chicken made healthier in the air fryer, with a perfect golden crust and tender meat. Works with breasts, thighs, or tenders!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs (680g) chicken breasts, thighs, or tenders
- 1 cup (120g) panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp water
- Olive oil spray
- Optional seasonings:
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Prep chicken: Pat chicken dry. If using breasts, pound to even 1/2-inch thickness.
- Breading stations: Set up three bowls: 1) Flour + salt/pepper, 2) Beaten eggs + water, 3) Panko + Parmesan + spices.
- Coat chicken: Dredge each piece in flour, dip in egg, then press into panko mixture, coating all sides.
- Air fry: Lightly spray breaded chicken with oil. Place in single layer in air fryer basket.
- Cook: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 mins (flip halfway) until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Let rest 5 minutes for juicier results. Great with lemon wedges or dipping sauces.
Notes
- Extra crisp: Spritz breaded chicken generously with oil before cooking.
- Gluten-free: Use GF panko and flour.
- No panko? Crushed cornflakes or pork rinds work.
- Freezer tip: Freeze uncooked breaded chicken on a tray, then transfer to bags. Cook from frozen (+3-5 mins).
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (6oz)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 180mg