Easy & Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets
Crispy, juicy, and ready in minutes! These Easy Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets are a total game-changer for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even as a crowd-pleasing lunch. Golden and crispy on the outside, tender on the inside—with way less oil than traditional frying! This tried and tested recipe is healthy, quick, and absolutely delicious.
We love fried chicken! Who doesn’t? However, every time I cook it, I feel guilty about feeding my family chicken cooked in so much grease. That’s why when I discovered the air fryer – wow it was a game changer!
It’s probably the most used appliance in my home! We use it every day, and especially when we fancy a golden, crispy, and delicious chicken without the guilt! When I made this just the other day, everyone was blown away by how perfectly it came out! It almost felt unreal that this hardly had oil yet tasted like a “real fried chicken.” Perfectly crispy on the outside, with a golden crust, yet tender and moist inside, never dry. It’s so good!
So, if you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious dinner, these easy Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets are your new go-to recipe! Additionally, air frying allows you to enjoy the crispiness of traditional fried chicken cutlets with significantly less oil and calories. I highly recommend this!
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets Recipe
- Healthier than traditional frying: Air frying uses minimal oil, resulting in less fat and fewer calories than deep-fried versions.
- Quick and easy: From prep to plate in under 30 minutes—ideal for busy schedules.
- Crispy and juicy: The panko and breadcrumb coating delivers a satisfying crunch, while the chicken stays moist and tender.
- Versatile: Serve these cutlets in sandwiches, over salads, with pasta, or as a main dish with your favorite sides.
- Kid-friendly: Even picky eaters love the crispy coating and mild flavor.
Ingredients for Easy Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets
- 2 chicken breasts
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup regular panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup golden breadcrumbs or Italian-style bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- cooking spray or oil
Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets
1. Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) and let it preheat for 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and crispier cutlets.
2. Prepare the Chicken
Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create four thin cutlets. For extra tenderness, you can gently pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
3. Set Up Your Breading Station
- In one shallow bowl, whisk the eggs.
- In a second bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, golden or Italian-style breadcrumbs, salt, and black pepper. Add optional seasonings, if desired.
- In a third bowl, add the all-purpose flour.
4. Bread the Chicken Cutlets
- Dredge each chicken piece in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip into the egg mixture, coating both sides.
- Press into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring a thick, even coating.
5. Arrange in the Air Fryer
Lay the breaded cutlets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overlap; cook in batches if needed for best results.
6. Spray and Cook
Lightly spray the tops of the cutlets with cooking spray. This helps achieve a golden, crispy crust without excess oil. Air fry at 380°F (190°C) for 23-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The cutlets are done when golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Rest and Serve
Let the chicken cutlets rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic: Pair with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
- Sandwich: Serve on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce.
- Salad Topper: Slice and add to a Caesar or garden salad.
- Pasta: Serve over spaghetti with marinara sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: Cook in batches for even crispiness.
- Use a meat thermometer: Ensure the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Customize the seasoning: Add Italian herbs, smoked paprika, or Parmesan for extra flavor.
- Make ahead: Bread the cutlets and freeze them raw for a quick future meal. Cook straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well. Slice or pound them thin for best results.
How do I store leftovers?
Store cooked cutlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness.
Can I freeze air fryer chicken cutlets?
Absolutely. Freeze breaded, uncooked cutlets on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Air fry from frozen, adding 4-5 minutes to the cook time.
How do I make the cutlets extra crispy?
Use a mix of panko and regular breadcrumbs, spray generously with cooking spray, and avoid overcrowding the basket.
What dipping sauces go well with these cutlets?
Try honey mustard, ranch, spicy mayo, or classic marinara.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, substitute gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
Why are my cutlets not crispy?
Make sure to preheat the air fryer, spray the cutlets with oil, and don’t overcrowd the basket. Also, pat the chicken dry before breading to help the coating stick.
These Easy Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets are a game-changer for anyone craving crispy, juicy chicken without the mess and calories of deep frying. With simple ingredients, quick prep, and endless serving options, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the crunch—guilt-free!
Easy and Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup regular panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup golden breadcrumbs or Italian-style bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- cooking spray, as needed
Instructions
Preheat the Air Fryer
- Set your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) and let it preheat for 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and crispier cutlets.
Prepare the Chicken
- Slice each chicken breast horizontally to create four thin cutlets. For extra tenderness, you can gently pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
Set Up Your Breading Station
- In one shallow bowl, whisk the eggs.
- In a second bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, golden or Italian-style breadcrumbs, salt, and black pepper. Add optional seasonings, if desired.
- In a third bowl, add the all-purpose flour.
Bread the Chicken Cutlets
- Dredge each chicken piece in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip into the egg mixture, coating both sides.
- Press into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring a thick, even coating.
Arrange in the Air Fryer
- Lay the breaded cutlets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overlap; cook in batches if needed for best results.
Spray and Cook
- Lightly spray the tops of the cutlets with cooking spray. This helps achieve a golden, crispy crust without excess oil. Air fry at 380°F (190°C) for 23-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The cutlets are done when golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Rest and Serve
- Let the chicken cutlets rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
Notes
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Preparing what is essentially breaded fried chicken in the air fryer is next-level genius. Also, I loved your handy prep tips… especially the breading station. So brilliant!
Thank you! It actually came out so good! Highly recommend this one!