Air Fryer Chicken Schnitzel
Craving that classic comforting crunch of chicken schnitzel but short on time? This Air Fryer Chicken Schnitzel recipe is your new weeknight dinner hero! Forget the messy pan-frying and hello to golden-brown perfection in minutes. We're talking juicy, tender chicken coated in a crispy, flavorful breadcrumb crust, all cooked in the air fryer with minimal oil. Get ready for an easy, family-friendly meal that's both delicious and surprisingly healthy – perfect for busy weeknights and satisfying those schnitzel cravings.
Equipment
- Air Fryer,
- Meat Mallet
- 3 shallow dishes
Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts about 6 ounces each
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch. This helps them cook quickly and evenly.
- In three separate shallow dishes, place the flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese (if using), Italian herbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it's fully coated. Finally, press the chicken firmly into the panko breadcrumb mixture, making sure it's completely covered.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Place the breaded chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd. You may need to work in batches. Spray the tops of the chicken breasts lightly with olive oil spray.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the breading is golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Serve your delicious air fryer chicken schnitzel while it's hot and crispy.
Notes
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for spice or lemon zest and chopped fresh parsley for a bright, fresh herbal note. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes for best results.