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Air Fryer Ranch Chicken: A Delightful and Easy Recipe

Air fryers have revolutionised the way we cook, offering a healthier alternative to traditional frying while still delivering that deliciously crispy texture we all crave. One dish that particularly benefits from this cooking method is ranch chicken. Combining the rich, tangy flavours of ranch seasoning with tender chicken, this Air Fryer Ranch Chicken is not only simple to prepare but also exceptionally satisfying. Let’s dive into the details of this delightful recipe that’s sure to become a favourite in your household.

Why Choose the Air Fryer?

Air fryers work by circulating hot air around the food, which allows it to cook evenly and become crispy without the need for excessive oil. This means you can enjoy all the flavours and textures of fried foods but with significantly less fat. Additionally, air frying is often quicker than traditional methods, making it an excellent option for busy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

To make Air Fryer Ranch Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko works well for extra crunch)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 eggs, beaten
• Olive oil spray (or any cooking oil spray)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Start by preheating your air fryer to 200°C (about 390°F). While it’s warming up, prepare your chicken breasts by trimming any excess fat and patting them dry with paper towels. This step ensures better adhesion for the coating.

2. Set Up Your Dipping Station: In one bowl, mix the ranch seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper with the breadcrumbs. In another bowl, beat the eggs until combined.

3. Coat the Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken first into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Next, coat the chicken thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to ensure the crumbs adhere well.

4. Air Fry: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the coated chicken breasts in a single layer in the basket, making sure not to overcrowd. You may need to cook in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.

5. Cooking Time: Air fry the chicken for approximately 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) and the coating is golden and crisp.

6. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring your chicken remains juicy and tender. Serve with your favourite sides – it pairs brilliantly with salads, roasted vegetables, or even mashed potatoes.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Ranch Chicken

• Homemade Ranch Seasoning: For a personalised flavour, consider making your own ranch seasoning. Combine equal parts dried parsley, dill, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt, along with a dash of black pepper.

• Extra Crispy: If you like an extra crispy coating, double dip the chicken. After the first round of egg and breadcrumbs, dip it back into the egg and then the breadcrumbs again.

• Baking Option: If you don’t have an air fryer, you can still enjoy this dish. Simply bake the coated chicken in an oven preheated to 200°C (about 390°F) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and crispy.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Ranch Chicken is an easy recipe that highlights the convenience and versatility of the air fryer. With its crispy exterior and flavourful seasoning, this dish is bound to impress family and friends alike. Perfect for a quick dinner or a weekend gathering, it offers all the satisfaction of fried chicken without the guilt. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds will thank you!