Craving crispy, juicy chicken without all the oil? This Air Fryer Breaded Chicken Breast is the perfect recipe! It’s super easy to make, comes out golden brown and crunchy, and tastes like something from a restaurant. The secret? A simple coating of mayo and panko breadcrumbs that keeps the chicken moist inside while giving it the perfect crispy outside. Plus, the air fryer makes it way healthier than deep frying—without losing any of the crunch! Whether you’re making dinner for the family or just want an easy meal, this recipe will be your new favorite.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy & Golden: Air fryer ensures a crunchy texture without excessive oil.
- Juicy & Tender: Mayo keeps the chicken moist while panko creates the crunch.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes with minimal prep.
- Kid-Friendly & Family Approved: A great alternative to store-bought breaded chicken.
If you love crispy, juicy air fryer chicken, you have to try Air Fryer Battered Chicken Drumsticks for a crunchy, golden coating that tastes just like classic fried chicken—without all the grease! And if you’re in the mood for something different, Juiciest Air Fryer Pork Chops are a must-try! They turn out perfectly tender with a deliciously seasoned crust, making them a quick and easy dinner option.
Ingredients
Here’s a step-by-step recipe with photos to guide you through the process. For precise ingredients and nutritional details, scroll down to the printable recipe card below.
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless (or use chicken tenders).
- Mayonnaise: Helps the panko adhere and keeps the chicken juicy.
- Dijon or Yellow Mustard: Adds a tangy kick and enhances flavor.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Adds extra crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Optional: Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
How to Make Breaded Chicken Breast in the Air Fryer
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
- Pat chicken dry with a paper towel.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
Step 2: Make the Mayo-Mustard Coating
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise and Dijon (or yellow) mustard until well combined (picture 4 above).
- Spread a thin layer of this mixture evenly over each chicken breast. This helps the panko stick while adding flavor and moisture (picture 1 below).
3: Coat with Panko Mixture
- In a separate bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with additional seasonings (and Parmesan, if using).
- Press each mayo-mustard-coated chicken breast into the panko mixture, ensuring an even coating on all sides (picture 2 above).
4: Air Fry to Perfection
- Preheat air fryer to 390°F (195°C) for a few minutes.
- Arrange breaded chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket (don’t overcrowd).
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with Air Fryer Baked Potatoes, Roasted Veggies, or a Fresh Cucumber salad.
- Pair with dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or Chipotle mayo.
- Slice and add to sandwiches, wraps, or salads for a meal prep option.
Variations & Substitutions
- Make it Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mayo.
- Low-Carb Option: Use crushed pork rinds instead of panko.
- Gluten-Free Version: Swap panko for gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Dairy-Free: Omit parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
Yes, but panko gives a lighter, crispier texture. Regular breadcrumbs will work but may result in a denser coating.
2. Do I need to flip the chicken in the air fryer?
Yes, flipping the chicken halfway through helps it cook evenly and ensures both sides get crispy.
3. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
It’s best to thaw them first for even cooking. If using frozen chicken, add a few extra minutes to the cook time and check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
4. Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
I recommend preheating for the crispiest results, but if you skip it, just add 1-2 extra minutes to the cooking time.
5. How do I keep my chicken from drying out?
Using mayonnaise and mustard in the coating helps lock in moisture. Also, avoid overcooking—use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (75°C).
6. Can I make this recipe without mayo?
Yes! You can substitute Greek yogurt, sour cream, or even a beaten egg to help the panko stick.
7. How do I make it spicier?
Add cayenne pepper, chili powder, or a dash of hot sauce to the mayo-mustard mixture for extra heat.
8. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken for up to 3 months, then reheat in the air fryer. I suggest slicing the chicken into ½-inch strips before freezing for easier reheating and portioning.
More Air Fryer Chicken Recipes
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Easy Air Fryer Breaded Chicken Breast Recipe – Crispy & Juicy!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts sliced in half lengthwise.
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 Tablespoons mustard Dijon or yellow mustard
- 1 cup Panko bread crumbs or Pork Panko for a low-carb version
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Pat chicken dry with a paper towel. Slice the chicken breast in half lengthwise, so you get four ½ inch to ¾ inch thick chicken breasts. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Make the Mayo-Mustard Coating: In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise and Dijon (or yellow) mustard until well combined. Spread a thin layer of this mixture evenly over each chicken breast. This helps the panko stick while adding flavor and moisture.
- Coat with Panko Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with additional seasonings (and Parmesan, if using). Press each mayo-mustard-coated chicken breast into the panko mixture, ensuring an even coating on all sides.
- Air fry: Preheat air fryer to 390°F (195°C) for a few minutes. Arrange breaded chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket (don’t overcrowd). Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
Notes
Variations & Substitutions
- Make it Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mayo.
- Low-Carb Option: Use crushed pork rinds instead of panko.
- Gluten-Free Version: Swap panko for gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Dairy-Free: Omit parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Mine also took way longer to cook, yes was cut thin and my air fryer is working properly and was preheated and set to 390. Plus when I turned the chicken the coating stuck to the tray. It’s a ninja normally nothing sticks as it has the non stick coating. Would not try these again.
That’s why u use parchment paper or grease your tray or baskett regardless if it’s non stick .. that tends to wear after time and become easy to stick.
Are breasts boneless and skinless ?
Yes. Boneless and skinless. If you are using breast with the bone, you can add a minute or two longer cooking time
It’s still raw
I flipped it and doubled the time, still raw 🙁
Did you turn on the oven?
Did you miss the part where she said to cook until internal temperature of 165? Did you perhaps not cut the chicken to be 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick? Was your AF perhaps not heating at 395? With the chicken cut 1/2 to 3/4 and at 395 for 10-12 minutes, it certainly should not have been anywhere near raw. User error?
I followed the recipe exactly and it was delicious! Cooked to perfection.
Thank you so much! So glad you liked it too.
Does it taste like mustard???
Mustard adds in a slightly tangy flavor, but it doesn’t taste like Mustard. You can also omit it.
The bestest!
Thank you so much! So glad you liked it too.
Can I please suggest you start added calorie amounts to your recipes as many are calorie counting.
What is the temperature you cook these on? Thank you
390 degrees Fahrenheit, (195 °C)
Thank you! The safe temp to cook chicken 390-400F (195-200C)
390F (198C)
Great