Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets are a game-changer for anyone looking for a healthier alternative to the classic fried chicken without sacrificing flavor or crunch. By utilizing the air fryer, these chicken cutlets achieve a perfectly golden and crispy exterior while maintaining a juicy, tender interior. This method not only reduces the amount of oil needed but also simplifies the cooking process, making it an ideal choice for quick weeknight dinners, healthy meal preps, or satisfying a fried chicken craving in a more nutritious way. Get ready to enjoy a deliciously crispy chicken cutlet that’s as easy to make as it is to love.
The discovery of making chicken cutlets in the air fryer was a delightful accident that quickly turned into a culinary revelation. Initially skeptical about achieving the desired crispiness without deep frying, I was amazed at the results after the first batch came out of the air fryer. The chicken was perfectly cooked, boasting a crispy exterior that gave way to the tender, juicy meat inside. It was a hit with the family, garnering praise for both its taste and the healthier cooking method.
This method of preparing chicken cutlets has since become a staple in our kitchen, inspiring us to explore and experiment with different seasonings and coatings. It’s a testament to the versatility and convenience of the air fryer, proving that you can enjoy your favorite comfort foods in a healthier, fuss-free manner.
Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets
- Healthier Option: Enjoy the crispy texture of fried chicken without the excess oil.
- Quick and Easy: From prep to plate in no time, perfect for busy weekdays.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable with various seasonings and coatings to suit your taste.
- Family-Friendly: A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s both delicious and nutritious.
Ingredients Notes For Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets
- Chicken Breasts: Thinly sliced or pounded to an even thickness for quick cooking.
- Breadcrumbs: Panko or regular breadcrumbs work well for achieving a crispy coating.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a savory depth to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Eggs: Helps the breadcrumb mixture adhere to the chicken.
- Seasonings: Garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper enhance the flavor of the chicken.
Recipe Steps
- Prep the Chicken: Slice or pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
- Season: Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you like.
- Dredge: Dip each chicken cutlet first in beaten egg, then in a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and seasonings.
- Air Fry: Cook in a preheated air fryer at 400°F until golden and cooked through, flipping halfway.
- Serve: Enjoy hot with your favorite sides, or let cool and use for meal prep throughout the week.
Storage Options
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze cooked and cooled cutlets between layers of parchment paper for up to 2 months. Reheat in the air fryer for best results.
Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: 2 large, thinly sliced or pounded to 1/4 inch thickness
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- All-purpose flour: 1/2 cup (for dredging)
- Eggs: 2, beaten
- Breadcrumbs: 1 cup (Panko or Italian seasoned for extra flavor)
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/4 cup (optional, mixed into breadcrumbs)
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon (optional, for color and flavor)
- Garlic powder: 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
- Olive oil spray: for coating
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Start by slicing the chicken breasts in half horizontally to make them thinner, or use a meat mallet to pound them to an even 1/4-inch thickness. Season both sides of the chicken cutlets with salt and pepper.
- Dredge the Chicken:
- Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes. Place the flour in the first dish. Beat the eggs in the second dish, and mix the breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese, paprika, and garlic powder in the third dish.
- Dredge each chicken cutlet in flour, shaking off the excess. Dip into the beaten eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to ensure a good coat.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This step helps achieve a crispy exterior.
- Cook the Chicken Cutlets:
- Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Place the breaded chicken cutlets in a single layer in the basket. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. Spray the top of the chicken lightly with olive oil spray.
- Air fry for 6-7 minutes, then flip the cutlets, spray the other side lightly with olive oil, and continue to cook for another 6-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve:
- Serve the air fryer chicken cutlets hot, with lemon wedges, a side of your favorite sauce for dipping, or over a bed of mixed greens for a lighter meal.