Image Source from marc4378

Crispy Chicken Breast in Air Fryer – Easy & Healthy Weeknight Recipe

When it comes to weeknight dinners, few things are as appealing as a delicious, crispy chicken breast. Not only is chicken a fantastic source of protein, but it’s also incredibly versatile and can be prepared in a myriad of ways. With the advent of air fryers, we can now enjoy the same rich, crispy texture of fried chicken without the excess oil and calories. In this article, we’ll guide you through an easy and healthy recipe for crispy chicken breast in the air fryer that is perfect for any night of the week.

Why Choose Air Frying?

Air frying has taken the culinary world by storm, and for good reason. Unlike traditional frying methods that require copious amounts of oil, air frying uses hot air circulation to cook food, resulting in a crispy exterior and juicy interior with far less fat. This method not only makes for healthier meals but also significantly reduces cooking time.

Ingredients

To get started on your crispy chicken breast, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup of buttermilk (or plain yoghurt)
• 1 cup of seasoned breadcrumbs (panko works best for extra crunch)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray or a light drizzle of olive oil

Optional Marinade Ingredients:

• 1 tsp dried herbs (like thyme or oregano)
• A dash of hot sauce for added flavour

Preparation

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Begin by marinating your chicken breasts in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial, as the buttermilk helps tenderise the meat while also enhancing the flavour. If you’d like, you can add spices or hot sauce to the buttermilk for an extra kick.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading

While the chicken is marinating, combine the seasoned breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

After marinating, take each chicken breast and remove it from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Dip the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. For an extra crispy finish, you may wish to repeat the process, dipping the chicken back into the buttermilk and then back into the breadcrumbs for a double coating.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for about 5 minutes. This initial heating phase is vital for ensuring your chicken starts cooking correctly and develops that desirable crispy texture.

Cooking the Chicken

Once your air fryer is preheated, lightly coat the bottom of the basket with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the breaded chicken breasts in the basket, ensuring they are not touching to allow proper airflow.

Cook for approximately 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. The chicken is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) and has a golden-brown crust. If desired, you can give them an extra spray of oil just before the last few minutes of cooking for an increased crunch.

Serving Suggestions

Your crispy chicken breasts are now ready to be served! Pair them with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or your favourite grain like quinoa or brown rice for a complete healthy meal. You can also slice the chicken and use it in wraps or sandwiches for a tasty lunch option the next day.

Conclusion

This crispy chicken breast recipe using an air fryer is not only easy and quick to prepare but also offers a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. With its delectable crunch and juicy interior, it’s certain to become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. Enjoy the simplicity of air frying and relish in the satisfaction of a meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious!

No items listed in the response.