Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Breast – Juicy, Golden, & Healthy

Introduction

When it comes to weeknight dinners, few recipes are as satisfying, quick, and healthy as Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Breast. The air fryer gives you that perfect golden, crunchy coating without the excess oil from traditional frying. The inside stays tender and juicy while the outside gets irresistibly crisp.

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, making a wholesome dinner for the family, or just craving a lighter version of fried chicken, this recipe checks every box. With only a handful of pantry-friendly ingredients and under 25 minutes of cook time, it’s a must-have in your kitchen rotation.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra crisp)
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Olive oil spray (or cooking spray)

Instructions

1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes.
2. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels to help coating stick.
3. In a shallow dish, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan (if using), paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Lightly spray chicken breasts with olive oil spray on both sides.
5. Coat each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so it adheres.
6. Place coated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer (do not overcrowd).
7. Air fry for 10 minutes, flip, then cook another 7–10 minutes, until golden brown and internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Remove, rest for 5 minutes, slice, and serve hot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Alternative: Crispy like fried chicken but made with a fraction of the oil.
• Quick Dinner: Ready in under 25 minutes.
• Family Friendly: Perfect for picky eaters and kids.
• Versatile: Pair with salads, rice, pasta, or roasted veggies.

Pro Tips

✨ Pound chicken breasts to even thickness for consistent cooking.
✨ Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
✨ Don’t skip the rest time—it keeps the chicken juicy.

Serving Suggestions

• Slice and serve over Caesar salad for a light meal.
• Pair with mashed potatoes and green beans for comfort food vibes.
• Use leftovers in wraps, sandwiches, or meal prep bowls.

Nutrition (per serving, 1 chicken breast)

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 36g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fiber: 1g

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Breast

Golden, crispy chicken breast made in the air fryer—juicy inside, crunchy outside, and healthier than traditional frying.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 2 chicken breasts

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 280

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 0.5 cup breadcrumbs panko or regular
• 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese optional
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 0.5 tsp onion powder
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• olive oil spray for coating

Equipment

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Shallow dish
• Tongs

Method

 

1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes.
2. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
3. Mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish.
4. Spray chicken breasts with olive oil spray.
5. Coat each chicken breast in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently.
6. Place in air fryer basket without overcrowding.
7. Air fry 10 minutes, flip, then cook another 7–10 minutes until golden and 165°F internal temp.
8. Rest 5 minutes, then slice and serve.

Notes

For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs. Pound chicken to even thickness for best results.