Description
These air fryer chicken cutlets are shatteringly crispy, juicy, and ready in under 20 minutes. Made with Parmesan and panko, they’re a healthier, mess-free alternative to deep frying that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 large or 3 medium)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (preferably Parmigiano-Reggiano)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (plus more for chicken)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil spray (or avocado oil spray)
- Fresh lemon wedges (for serving, optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for serving, optional)
- Extra grated Parmesan for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Place chicken breasts on a cutting board, cover with plastic wrap, and pound to an even thickness of about 1/4 to 1/2 inch. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.
- Set Up the Breading Station: In three shallow bowls, place flour in the first, whisked eggs in the second, and in the third combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Bread the Chicken: Dredge each piece in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into egg wash, letting extra drip off. Press firmly into breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides. Place on a plate and repeat.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and preheat for 3-5 minutes.
- Spray and Arrange: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil. Place breaded cutlets in a single layer without overcrowding. Lightly spray tops with oil.
- Cook: Air fry at 380°F for 8 minutes. Flip carefully, spray the other side, and cook for another 5-7 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Let cutlets rest in the turned-off air fryer for 1-2 minutes. Transfer to a plate, squeeze fresh lemon over top, and sprinkle with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan and panko breadcrumbs. Let breaded cutlets rest for 5-10 minutes before cooking to help coating adhere. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. If making a large batch, keep cooked cutlets warm in a 200°F oven on a wire rack. To reheat, use the air fryer at 375°F for 3-4 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 13-15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cutlet
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 580
- Fat: 14
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Carbohydrates: 18
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 38
Keywords: air fryer chicken cutlets, crispy chicken, Parmesan chicken, easy chicken recipe, air fryer dinner, healthy chicken, quick chicken recipe