Air Fryer Crispy Breaded Chicken Cutlets
Air Fryer Crispy Breaded Chicken Cutlets
If you’re craving that classic crispy breaded chicken cutlet without standing over a frying pan, the air fryer is your best friend. These air fryer chicken cutlets come out beautifully golden and crunchy on the outside while staying tender and juicy inside — all with far less oil and mess than traditional frying.
This is one of those dependable recipes you’ll reach for again and again, whether it’s for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prep, or even sandwiches the next day.
⭐ Why You’ll Love These Chicken Cutlets
- Extra crispy coating with minimal oil
- Juicy, flavorful chicken every time
- Easy to customize with different seasonings
- Ready in under 20 minutes
- Perfect for dinner, salads, or sandwiches
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts, sliced into cutlets
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese (optional, but delicious)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
🥣 How to Make Air Fryer Breaded Chicken Cutlets
1. Prep the Chicken
Pat the chicken cutlets dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Set Up the Breading Station
- Bowl 1: flour
- Bowl 2: beaten eggs
- Bowl 3: breadcrumbs, parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper
Dredge each cutlet in flour, dip in egg, then press into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
3. Air Fry Until Crispy
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place chicken cutlets in a single layer, leaving space between each piece.
Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray and air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp of 165°F / 74°C).
🔥 Tips for Maximum Crunch
- Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness
- Don’t overcrowd the basket
- Spray lightly with oil for even browning
- Flip halfway for best results
🍽 Serving Ideas
These crispy cutlets are incredibly versatile:
- Serve with mashed potatoes or roasted veggies
- Slice over salads
- Turn into chicken parmesan
- Make crispy chicken sandwiches or wraps
