Whip up the perfect chicken cutlets in your air fryer and get ready to enjoy all the crispiness and flavor of the traditional deep-fried version without the grease.
Here’s how to make air fryer chicken cutlets that are absolutely delicious.
The Importance of Fat
Great cooking starts with fat, which not only enriches the flavor but also facilitates higher cooking temperatures essential for that perfect crispy texture.
So, when it comes to crafting exceptional chicken cutlets in an air fryer, it’s crucial to incorporate a layer of fat before breading, since you’re cooking with air instead of oil.
This method offers you the flexibility to choose healthier fats over the typical omega-6-laden vegetable oils. Opt for olive oil, or get adventurous with goose or duck fat to elevate the flavor even further.
Secrets to Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Breast
Follow these key steps for crispy, tasty chicken cutlets every time:
- Coat with Fat: Before anything else, make sure to coat your chicken breast with a layer of fat. This not only boosts the flavor but also brings out a crisp texture that’s hard to achieve otherwise in an air fryer.
- Season Generously: Proper seasoning is crucial. Stick with the classics like salt and freshly ground black pepper, and consider adding a dash of ground nutmeg to give your cutlets a subtle depth.
- Optimal Cooking Time and Temperature: Cook the cutlets at 355°F (180°C) for 15 minutes, flipping them once midway through to ensure they cook evenly on both sides.
Keep in mind, your air-fried chicken cutlets might not look as golden as their deep-fried cousins, but they’ll still have all the crunch and juiciness you crave.
Serve these air fryer chicken cutlets hot and crispy for a delightful meal that’s sure to impress with its simplicity and flavor!
Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets
Ingredients
- 1.3 lbs chicken breast 600 g
- ⅓ cup flour 50 g
- 1 cup breadcrumbs 150 g
- 1 tbsp fat or oil
- salt
- black pepper preferably freshly ground
Instructions
- Breading Setup: Arrange flour, seasoned beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in three separate plates or bowls.
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breast fillets to about ⅔ inch (1.5 cm) thickness. Sandwich them between layers of plastic wrap and pound gently to an even thickness. Lightly coat each piece with your preferred fat, then season with salt and pepper.
- Breading the Cutlets: First, coat each chicken piece in flour, tapping off any excess. Dip next into the egg mixture, and finally, coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs. Be sure to shake off any excess breading at each stage.
- Cooking: Preheat your air fryer. Place the breaded chicken cutlets in the basket and cook at 355°F (180°C) for 15 minutes, turning them halfway through.