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Air fryer fried chicken, steamed asparagus and seasoned rice. #TexasHomesteader

Air Fryer Fried Chicken Breast

This air fryer cooked fried chicken recipe gives you delicious southern fried chicken flavor fast but without all the fat & calories. Boneless skinless chicken breasts are breaded with savory breadcrumbs seasoned with paprika, thyme, garlic powder and just a touch of cayenne pepper. Delicious, easy, healthy and FAST fried chicken the air fryer way. #TexasHomesteader

Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Keyword air fryer, comfort food, fried chicken, healthy, low fat, southern food
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Servings 2 people

Ingredients

  • 1 6-8 oz Boneless skinless chicken breast, cut in half
  • 1 teaspoon Olive oil
  • ½ cup Breadcrumbs ( I use finely crushed cornflakes)
  • 2 teaspoons Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Dried thyme
  • ⅛ teaspoon Ground cayenne pepper
  • Salt & pepper to taste (I use 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper)
  • ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan, optional (I often leave this out)

Instructions

  1. Cut boneless skinless chicken breast in half. With a meat mallet pound each piece to a uniform thickness of ½ inch. (This is important!) Then place the pounded chicken into a bowl.

  2. Drizzle the chicken pieces with a tablespoon of olive oil and toss to coat all surfaces. Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper.

  3. In another bowl combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), paprika, garlic powder, thyme, cayenne pepper, and salt. Mix until evenly blended.

  4. Coat each portion of chicken breast in breadcrumb mixture. (Be sure to press firmly to properly coat the surface of the chicken.)

  5. Preheat air fryer to 390 degrees F. Then arrange the chicken in a single layer in the basket. (NOTE: You may need to cook the chicken in batches depending upon the number of servings you’re cooking and the size of your air fryer.)

  6. Replace the air fryer lid and cook the breaded chicken breasts on the first side for 4 minutes. Then using kitchen tongs, carefully flip the chicken, and continue cooking for 4 to 5 additional minutes. (NOTE: Your time may vary depending upon the thickness of chicken pieces.)

  7. Cook chicken until crust is golden brown & internal temperature of the chicken reads between 162 degrees and 165 degrees F. when checked with a quick-read thermometer. (internal temperature will continue to rise as it rests – you want a final temp of 165 degrees).

    Enjoy the fried chicken hot.