This crispy chicken breast is easy to make in the air fryer! With a golden crust and juicy inside, it’s a great meal for busy nights.
I love how quick it is to whip up! Just season, pop it in the fryer, and you’re all set. Perfect with a side of veggies or in a tasty sandwich! Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Look for large chicken breasts for even cooking. If you want a healthier option, consider using chicken thighs, as they stay juicier. Just adjust the cooking time slightly!
Buttermilk: This ingredient helps tenderize the chicken and adds flavor. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes before using.
Breadcrumbs: I recommend panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch, but Italian style works well too. For gluten-free options, try using gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes. Both provide a satisfying crunch!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives a lovely flavor. If you’re out of Parmesan, pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast can be great substitutes, especially for a dairy-free option!
Spices: The garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika are key for flavor. If you want a kick, consider adding cayenne pepper or using a spicy seasoning blend instead.
How Do You Get Crispy Chicken in an Air Fryer?
The secret to achieving crispy chicken in your air fryer lies in the preparation and coating. Start by marinating the chicken in buttermilk to keep it juicy. Here’s how to ensure it crisps up perfectly:
- Marinate in buttermilk for at least 1 hour to enhance tenderness.
- Use a combination of flour and seasoned breadcrumbs for a crunchy coating.
- Don’t skip the preheating—this helps create a nice crispy layer.
- Spray the basket and the chicken with cooking spray or olive oil to promote crispness.
- Cook at 380°F and flip halfway through for an even golden-brown color.
Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking helps the juices redistribute, making each bite tender and flavorful. Enjoy!
How to Make Crispy Chicken Breast in Air Fryer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
For the Coating:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian or panko)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For Cooking:
- Cooking spray or olive oil for spraying
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of active preparation time plus at least 1 hour for marinating the chicken (up to overnight if you prefer). The cooking time in the air fryer is roughly 12-15 minutes. Overall, you can enjoy crispy chicken in about 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on your marination time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts in a bowl and pouring the buttermilk over them. Make sure they are well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or if you have the time, let them marinate overnight. This helps keep the chicken tender and juicy!
2. Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. This mixture will give your chicken a delicious, crispy outer layer.
3. Coat the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, take the chicken out of the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Next, dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off the extra flour. Now, dip the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly to ensure the coating sticks well to the chicken.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating helps the chicken cook evenly and get that perfect crispy texture.
5. Prepare the Air Fryer Basket:
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush it with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the coated chicken breasts in the basket in a single layer—make sure they aren’t overcrowded!
6. Spray and Cook:
Spray the tops of the chicken breasts with cooking spray; this helps them crisp up nicely. Cook in the air fryer for 12-15 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Let It Rest:
Once cooked, take the chicken out of the air fryer and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This is important as it allows the juices to redistribute, making your chicken even juicier!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with chopped parsley if you like, and serve your crispy chicken breast hot. Pair it with your favorite side dishes and enjoy a delicious meal!
### FAQ for Crispy Chicken Breast in Air Fryer
Can I Use Skin-On Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use skin-on chicken breasts! Just be mindful that the skin may not get as crispy as the coating since it won’t have the same texture as breadcrumbed chicken. Adjust the cooking time if needed, but make sure the internal temperature still reaches 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Substitute for Buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute! Mix 1 cup of milk (any kind) with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly. This will work similarly to tenderize the chicken.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the chicken back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-8 minutes to help restore its crispy texture.
Can I Use Different Breading Options?
Absolutely! You can use crushed cornflakes, crushed crackers, or gluten-free breadcrumbs if you want. Just keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor and texture, but it will still be delicious! Always ensure the coating is pressed firmly onto the chicken for the best results.
