This crispy air fryer chicken breast recipe makes juicy, flavorful chicken with a crunchy outside. It’s a quick and healthy way to enjoy a classic favorite without all the oil!
I love how easy it is to whip up this dish—just season, air fry, and dinner is ready! Perfect for those busy nights when you want something tasty but simple. 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, you can use chicken thighs. They tend to be juicier and just as tasty!
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds flavor and helps achieve that crispy texture. If you prefer, avocado oil or canola oil are good substitutes and have high smoke points for frying.
All-Purpose Flour: This helps create a crunchy coating. If you’re gluten-free, you can use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend instead. Both will still give you a nice crispiness.
Seasonings: The garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika make the chicken flavorful. Feel free to mix and match spices! Try adding cayenne for heat or Italian herbs for a different twist.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Crispy Chicken?
Getting crispy chicken from an air fryer is all about the coating and the cooking method. Here are some tips to get it just right:
- Make sure to dry the chicken well with paper towels before seasoning. This helps the coating stick and keeps the chicken from steaming during cooking.
- Pound the chicken to an even thickness so it cooks uniformly. This also helps it stay juicy.
- Don’t skip the cooking spray! It adds necessary oil to the coating for crispiness. A light spray on both sides will work wonders.
- Flip the chicken halfway through the cooking time. This promotes even browning and crisping on both sides.
Implementing these steps will ensure your air fryer chicken comes out crispy and delicious every time! Enjoy!
Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Breasts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
- Cooking spray
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and around 12-15 minutes to cook in the air fryer. In total, expect to spend about 20 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy way to get a delicious meal on the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by turning your air fryer on and preheating it to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes. This helps ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and gets that nice crispy texture.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the air fryer is heating, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This is really important because it helps the seasoning stick better and prevents steaming. If the chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, gently pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
3. Make the Seasoned Flour:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning if you’re using it. This will be the flavorful coating for your chicken!
4. Coat the Chicken:
Brush each chicken breast on both sides with olive oil. Then, dredge the chicken breasts in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure to press gently so it adheres well. Shake off any excess flour; we want a nice thin coating for crispiness.
5. Prepare the Air Fryer Basket:
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking, and then spray the coated chicken breasts lightly as well. This extra touch will enhance the crunchiness.
6. Air Fry the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. The chicken should be golden brown and have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when done.
7. Rest and Serve:
Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite juicy and tender. Then, slice and enjoy your crispy, juicy air fryer chicken breasts!
Enjoy your meal! Perfect paired with your favorite sides! 🚀🍽️
FAQ – Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Breasts
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and will work great in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a couple of extra minutes to reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) to help restore its crispiness!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Both options will still give you a deliciously crispy coating!
What Sides Pair Well with This Dish?
This crispy chicken goes wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
