Cooking with an air fryer has become a game changer in my kitchen, especially when it comes to making fried chicken. The crispy texture and golden brown color that the air fryer gives the chicken breast is nothing short of amazing. Not only does it cook quickly, but it also uses a fraction of the oil that traditional deep frying requires. This means you can enjoy all the crispy, juicy goodness of fried chicken without the guilt. And the best part? The cleanup is a breeze!
If you’re like me, you love crispy fried chicken but want a healthier option that doesn’t sacrifice taste. That’s where the air fryer comes in. It’s perfect for making crispy air fryer fried chicken breast that’s packed with flavor and crunchy on the outside, yet tender and juicy on the inside. Ready to make this delicious meal? Let’s get started!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken Breast: Chicken breasts are the star of the show here, and they cook perfectly in the air fryer. For the crispiest results, opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They will cook faster and ensure an even coating of the breading.
Buttermilk: Buttermilk adds a rich, tangy flavor to the chicken and helps the breading adhere better. It also makes the chicken breast extra tender. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute with milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar.
Flour: All-purpose flour is used for the coating. It provides the crispy texture and golden color that makes fried chicken so irresistible.
Cornstarch: A secret ingredient for extra crispiness. Cornstarch helps absorb moisture and creates a crunchy exterior.
Paprika: This spice adds a mild smokiness and a touch of color to the chicken. You can use regular paprika or smoked paprika depending on your flavor preference.
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder brings a savory depth of flavor to the chicken without overwhelming the taste.
Onion Powder: Onion powder balances the flavors and adds a savory note that complements the garlic and paprika.
Salt and Pepper: These basic seasonings are essential for enhancing the overall flavor of the chicken. Be generous, but don’t overdo it.
Olive Oil Spray: To ensure the chicken gets golden and crispy in the air fryer, a light spray of olive oil is key. It adds flavor while helping the breading crisp up.
Ingredients list
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- Olive oil spray
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Fried Chicken Breast
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by marinating the chicken breasts in buttermilk. This will tenderize the meat and help the breading stick. Place the chicken in a bowl, pour in the buttermilk, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful the chicken will be.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading
In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix the ingredients together until they’re well combined. This will be your crispy coating mixture.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the buttermilk and allow any excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, making sure to coat it evenly on both sides. Press the breading gently onto the chicken to ensure it sticks well.
Step 4: Air Fry the Chicken
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the basket with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the breaded chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t overlapping. Spray the tops of the chicken breasts lightly with olive oil spray. Cook for 10 minutes, flip the chicken, and spray again with olive oil. Continue to cook for another 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and crispy and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Serve
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps keep the juices locked in. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Don’t Skip the Buttermilk: Marinating the chicken in buttermilk is essential for achieving that tender, juicy interior. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar to create a quick substitute.
- Use Cornstarch: Adding cornstarch to the breading mixture makes the chicken extra crispy. It’s a key ingredient for achieving that crunch without deep frying.
- Preheat Your Air Fryer: Just like with an oven, preheating your air fryer ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and gets nice and crispy.
- Avoid Overcrowding: For the best results, don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Leave space around each chicken breast so the hot air can circulate and crisp up the coating.
- Use Olive Oil Spray: A light mist of olive oil on the chicken helps create that golden-brown, crispy exterior. Don’t use too much, though, as it can make the breading soggy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They may take a bit longer to cook, so be sure to check the internal temperature to ensure they’re fully cooked.
Do I need to flip the chicken halfway through cooking? Yes, flipping the chicken halfway through ensures both sides get crispy and golden brown.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the recipe gluten-free.
How do I know when the chicken is done? Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
What sides go well with crispy air fryer fried chicken breast? This crispy fried chicken pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with a side of cornbread for a classic comfort food meal.