Air-Fryer Chicken Cutlets

If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious way to prepare chicken that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, then these Air-Fryer Chicken Cutlets are your answer! They are perfect for a weeknight dinner and can also be a fantastic addition to meal prep. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a dish that the whole family will love. Plus, using an air fryer means you can enjoy that satisfying crunch without all the added oil, making it a healthier option. Let’s dive into this recipe!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

Imagine biting into a perfectly cooked chicken cutlet that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Here are a few things you’ll love about this Air-Fryer Chicken Cutlets recipe:

– Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
– Healthier than traditional fried chicken due to less oil.
– Versatile and can be served in various ways—on a salad, in a sandwich, or just as is.
– Kid-friendly and perfect for picky eaters.

What We’re Using

To make these delightful chicken cutlets, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 8 ounces each, trimmed)
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herb blend
• 1/4 cup low-fat Italian dressing
• 3/4 cup whole-wheat breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (low-fat version works well)
• 1 large egg
• Olive oil spray

Appliances & Accessories

For this recipe, you will need a few essential kitchen tools:

• Air Fryer: The star of the show! It cooks the chicken to perfection.
• Meat Mallet or Rolling Pin: For flattening the chicken breasts to ensure even cooking.
• Mixing Bowls: For combining your ingredients.
• Meat Thermometer: To check the internal temperature of the chicken.

Cook Air-Fryer Chicken Cutlets Like This

Now that you have everything you need, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This will help them cook evenly and stay juicy.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a small bowl, mix together the kosher salt, garlic powder, and dried Italian herbs. Sprinkle this seasoning blend evenly over both sides of the chicken cutlets.

Step 3: Marinate

In another bowl, combine the low-fat Italian dressing and the large egg. Dip each seasoned chicken cutlet into the mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated.

Step 4: Coat with Breadcrumbs

In a separate bowl, combine the whole-wheat breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. After dipping the chicken in the dressing mixture, immediately coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 5: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures the cutlets start cooking right away when placed inside.

Step 6: Air Fry the Cutlets

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated chicken cutlets in the basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. Spray the tops of the chicken with a bit more olive oil spray.

Step 7: Cook

Air fry the chicken cutlets for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is golden brown on the outside.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked, remove the chicken cutlets from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve with your favorite sides, or slice them up for a delicious salad or sandwich. If you’re in the mood for something different, try pairing them with Honey Bbq Chicken And Rice for a comforting meal!

Tailor It to Your Diet

This recipe is quite versatile and can easily be adjusted to fit various dietary preferences:

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers instead of whole-wheat breadcrumbs.
• Dairy-free: Omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
• Spicy: Add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a kick.
• Herb variations: Experiment with other herbs like thyme, rosemary, or fresh parsley for different flavor profiles.

Avoid These Mistakes

To ensure your Air-Fryer Chicken Cutlets turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary for even cooking.
• Don’t skip the resting time after cooking; this helps retain juices.
• Ensure that the chicken is pounded to an even thickness to prevent uneven cooking.
• Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

If you have leftovers (which we hope you do!), here’s how to store them properly:

Allow the chicken cutlets to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through, maintaining their crispy exterior. You can also freeze cooked cutlets for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Questions People Ask

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts for even cooking. Frozen chicken can cook unevenly and may not achieve the desired texture.

What can I serve with Air-Fryer Chicken Cutlets?

These cutlets pair wonderfully with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or even as a filling in a sandwich. Try using them in Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers for a tasty twist!

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way to check is to use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be safe to eat.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken cutlets and coat them in breadcrumbs, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before air frying. This can save you some time on a busy weeknight.

Explore More

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might want to check out these delicious options:

• Honey Bbq Chicken And Rice
• Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers

The Takeaway

These Air-Fryer Chicken Cutlets are not just a meal; they are an experience! With their crispy exterior and juicy interior, they are bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Plus, the ease of preparation and cooking makes them perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to impress your family with this delicious dish! You won’t regret it.

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