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Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Breasts
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Air Fryer Fried Chicken Breast Recipe

Air Fryer Fried Chicken Breast offers a healthier, quicker, and just as delicious alternative to traditional fried chicken. With minimal oil and a perfectly crisp coating, you can enjoy the flavors of fried chicken without the grease or the mess. This recipe is simple, adaptable, and a guaranteed hit for any meal, whether served with mashed potatoes, slaw, or just a simple salad.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time7 minutes
Total Time17 minutes
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Air Fryer Fried Chicken Breast Recipe
Servings: 4
Calories: 234kcal

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 ½ pounds)
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

For the Breadcrumb Coating:

  • ¼ cup whole wheat breadcrumbs or plain breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ⅛ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
  • ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt plus additional to taste

Instructions

  • Prepare the Chicken: Cut each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create 6 long, narrow pieces. Pound each piece to an even 1/2-inch thickness using a meat mallet. Drizzle the chicken with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
  • Make the Breadcrumb Coating: In a shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, paprika, garlic powder, thyme, cayenne pepper, and salt. Mix until evenly blended.
  • Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken evenly on both sides.
  • Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
  • Cook the Chicken: Coat the air fryer basket with nonstick spray and place the chicken in a single layer. Air fry at 390°F for 4 minutes on the first side, then flip the chicken and continue cooking for 2-5 more minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the coating is golden brown.
  • Serve: Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides!

Notes

  • For even cooking, ensure the chicken is pounded to an even thickness.
  • If your air fryer basket is small, you may need to cook the chicken in batches to ensure it cooks evenly.
  • Serve with sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or slaw for a complete meal.
  • You can freeze leftovers for up to 1 month. To reheat, use the air fryer at 375°F for 5-7 minutes.

Nutritional Facts (per serving)

  • Calories: 234 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Fat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3g
    • Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
    • Monounsaturated Fat: 5g
    • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 78mg
  • Potassium: 449mg
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Vitamin A: 465 IU
  • Vitamin C: 3mg
  • Calcium: 108mg
  • Iron: 1mg