The Secret to Crispy Air Fryer...

When it comes to weeknight dinners, I’m all about simplicity without sacrificing flavor. That’s why these crispy air fryer chicken cutlets are a game-changer in my kitchen! If you’re looking for a quick meal that’s both juicy on the inside and perfectly crispy on the outside, this is the recipe for you. Plus, the air fryer does all the work, meaning less mess and cleanup – just what I need after a busy day.

The secret to getting that golden, crispy crust lies in the perfect breading technique. I use a combination of panko and golden breadcrumbs for that extra crunch, along with a light spray of cooking spray to ensure everything crisps up beautifully. It’s all about getting the right balance between flavor and texture, and trust me, these cutlets hit the mark every time.

What I love most about this recipe is how customizable it is. You can easily adjust the seasoning to suit your taste or even toss in some parmesan for that cheesy crunch. You’ll have these chicken cutlets ready in less than 30 minutes, making them perfect for everything from busy nights to casual dinner gatherings. They’re definitely a meal you’ll find yourself making again and again!

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts: Start with two boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the perfect base to your crispy cutlets.

• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs add that extra crunch that makes these cutlets irresistible.

• 1 teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt enhances the natural flavor of the chicken and brings everything together.

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Black pepper adds just the right amount of spice to balance out the breading.

• 2 eggs: Whisk two eggs to create the perfect coating that will help the breadcrumbs stick.

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: A light dusting of all-purpose flour ensures the breadcrumbs adhere evenly for that golden crust.

• 1/4 cup golden breadcrumbs: Golden breadcrumbs provide an extra layer of texture and color for the crispiest finish.

• Cooking spray: A quick spray of cooking spray helps the cutlets crisp up in the air fryer without any added oil.

Recipe Instructions

You can find a printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

1. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for 3 to 5 minutes.

2. Carefully slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to create 4 thinner cutlets.

3. In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs.

4. In a second shallow bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with salt and black pepper.

5. Add the flour to a third shallow bowl.

6. Dredge each chicken cutlet in the flour, then dip it into the egg, and finally coat it in the panko mixture, pressing gently to help it stick.

7. Place the breaded cutlets in the air fryer basket in a single layer, don’t overcrowd them.

8. Lightly spray the tops of the cutlets with cooking spray.

9. Air fry at 380°F (190°C) for 23 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden and fully cooked.

10. Let the cutlets rest for a few minutes before serving.

My Favorite Ways to Enjoy Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets

• With a Side of Veggies: These chicken cutlets are perfect alongside some roasted veggies or a fresh green salad. The crispiness pairs so well with the light crunch of veggies.

• Sandwich Style: Grab a soft bun, pile on some lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments, and make a delicious chicken sandwich that everyone will love.

• On Top of Pasta: Toss these crispy cutlets on top of your favorite pasta for a comforting, hearty meal. A drizzle of marinara or Alfredo sauce takes it to the next level.

• As a Snack: Perfect for dipping! Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce – ranch, BBQ, or even some spicy buffalo sauce for an extra kick.

• With a Side of Fries: You can never go wrong with pairing these cutlets with some crispy fries. It’s like a healthier take on classic fast food, but way better!

• In a Wrap: Wrap them up in a tortilla with some veggies and a bit of sauce for an easy, tasty wrap. It’s a great option for lunch or a quick dinner on the go.

Serving & Storing

• Serving: Serve these crispy chicken cutlets immediately after air frying for the best crunch. They pair perfectly with a side of veggies, a simple salad, or your favorite dipping sauces.

• Storing: If you happen to have leftovers, store the cutlets in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They’ll still taste great, though they won’t be as crispy when reheated.

• Reheating: To get them crispy again, pop the cutlets back in the air fryer for about 5-7 minutes at 350°F. This helps bring back that perfect crunch without drying them out.

• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked cutlets for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let them cool completely before wrapping them in foil or plastic wrap and storing in a freezer-safe bag.

• Reheat from Frozen: When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, and they’ll be good as new!

FAQs

• Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of chicken cutlets?
  Yes! You can definitely use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Just make sure to slice them into thinner pieces to ensure they cook evenly and get that crispy texture.

• Do I need to use cooking spray?
  While cooking spray helps achieve that golden, crispy finish, it’s not absolutely necessary. You can skip it if you prefer, but I recommend using it for the best results!

• Can I make these cutlets gluten-free?
  Yes, you can! Simply swap the panko and golden breadcrumbs for gluten-free versions. You’ll still get that great crunch and flavor without the gluten.

• How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
  The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

• Can I prepare these ahead of time?
  You can prep the breaded chicken cutlets and refrigerate them for a few hours before cooking. Just make sure to let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before air frying for even cooking.