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Air Fryer Chicken

Golden, crispy air fryer chicken with tender, juicy meat inside and satisfying crunch outside that delivers restaurant-quality results in just 22 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1½ cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Cooking spray or olive oil

Method
 

  1. Pound chicken breasts to an even ¾-inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Arrange three shallow dishes in a row. Place flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and combine panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper in the third.
  3. Working with one piece at a time, coat the chicken in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into beaten eggs, letting extra drip off, then press firmly into the seasoned breadcrumbs.
  4. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  5. Place breaded chicken in the air fryer basket, ensuring pieces don't overlap. Cook for 6 minutes, then flip carefully using tongs. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray for extra browning, then cook another 6 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.
  6. Let the air fryer chicken rest for 3 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

Pound chicken to even ¾-inch thickness for uniform cooking. Press breadcrumbs firmly for better adhesion. Don't overcrowd the basket. Use meat thermometer to ensure 165°F internal temperature. Let rest 3 minutes before slicing. Store leftovers in refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness.