Save The air fryer sat on my counter for six months before I finally tried making chicken cutlets in it. I was convinced nothing could replace the crunch of deep frying, but one Tuesday night when I didnt want to deal with hot oil and cleanup, I gave it a shot. The first batch came out so golden and crispy that my actually stood in front of the air fryer watching the second batch cook through the window. Now this is the dinner I make when I need something that feels like comfort food but comes together fast.
Last month my sister came over after a terrible day at work and I made these cutlets while she sat at the counter telling me about everything that went wrong. She took one bite and stopped mid sentence, then asked for the recipe before she even finished her plate. Thats when I knew this wasnt just a quick dinner anymore.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: Pounding them thin ensures even cooking and makes each bite more tender
- 1 cup all purpose flour: The first layer that helps the egg wash stick to the chicken
- 2 large eggs: Beat them with milk for a rich adhesive that holds the crumbs perfectly
- 2 tablespoons milk: This small addition makes the egg wash silkier and helps the coating adhere better
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs: Panko creates that lighter crunchier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds umami depth and helps the browning process
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Distributes garlic flavor evenly throughout every bite
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Rounds out the savory notes without adding moisture
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Gives a subtle smokiness and beautiful golden color
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential seasoning that penetrates the breading layers
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground adds the best mild heat
- Olive oil spray: Creates the crispy exterior without excess oil
Instructions
- Preheat and prep:
- Get your air fryer heating to 400°F so its ready when the chicken is breaded
- Pound the chicken:
- Place each breast between parchment and pound to even thickness for consistent cooking
- Set up your breading station:
- Arrange three shallow bowls with flour first then beaten eggs with milk and finally the panko mixture with all seasonings
- Dredge and coat:
- Press each piece into flour then egg then breadcrumbs letting excess drip off between each step
- Prep for air frying:
- Lightly spray both sides of each cutlet with olive oil for that golden finish
- Arrange in basket:
- Place cutlets in a single layer without crowding for proper air circulation
- Air fry to golden:
- Cook 8 minutes then flip spray again and cook another 7 minutes until 165°F internal
- Rest before serving:
- Let the cutlets sit for 2 minutes so juices redistribute
Save My friend who swore she hated air fryer chicken tried these at a summer dinner party and immediately asked for the recipe. She texted me two days later saying her family requested them again and she was secretly happy about how easy it was.
Getting Even Thickness
Uneven chicken breasts lead to dry thin sections and undercooked thick parts. I learned to pound them between parchment instead of plastic wrap because the paper grip prevents slipping. The 1/2 inch thickness is the sweet spot that cooks through before the coating burns.
Making Ahead
You can bread the cutlets in the morning and keep them layered between parchment in the fridge. The coating actually adheres better after a few hours of chilling. Just bring them to room temperature for 15 minutes before air frying for the most even cook.
Serving Ideas
These cutlets work with everything from weeknight sides to party spreads. Cut them into strips for kids or keep whole for dinner plating. The flavor profile plays nicely with almost anything.
- Squeeze fresh lemon over the top right before serving
- Try them in sandwiches with arugula and mayo the next day
- Double the batch and freeze cooked cutlets for emergency meals
Save Hope these bring the same crispy comfort to your kitchen table as they have to mine. Happy cooking.
Recipe Guide
- → What temperature is best for air frying chicken cutlets?
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for optimal crispiness and thorough cooking of the cutlets.
- → How do I ensure the cutlets stay juicy inside?
Pound the chicken to an even thickness and avoid overcooking by flipping halfway through to retain moisture.
- → Can I add herbs to the breading?
Yes, fresh herbs like parsley or basil can be mixed with the breadcrumbs for added flavor.
- → Is it necessary to use olive oil spray?
Lightly spraying both sides with olive oil helps achieve that golden, crispy texture without deep frying.
- → How can I make a gluten-free version?
Substitute all-purpose flour and panko with gluten-free alternatives to accommodate dietary needs.