Air Fryer Breaded Chicken: Is It Possible?

Air fryers are a convenient way to cook chicken, and breaded chicken is no exception. You can use an air fryer to make juicy, tender, and crispy breaded chicken with minimal prep time and oil. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the chicken, but it should be around 10-15 minutes.

How long to cook breaded chicken in an air fryer

The length of time it takes to cook breaded chicken in an air fryer depends on the weight of the chicken breasts and the type of air fryer being used. Here is a general guide:

4-ounce chicken breasts: 10-12 minutes

6-ounce chicken breasts: 12-14 minutes

8-ounce chicken breasts: 14-16 minutes or longer

It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the specific air fryer being used, so it is always a good idea to check the chicken's internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached 165°F before serving.

When cooking breaded chicken in an air fryer, it is recommended to preheat the air fryer to 390°F and cook the chicken for 10-15 minutes, flipping it halfway through. The exact cooking time will depend on the size and thickness of the chicken breasts. For best results, it is important to ensure that the chicken is in a single layer in the air fryer basket and not overcrowded, as this can create a steaming effect instead of crisping the chicken.

Additionally, it is recommended to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken, which should reach 165°F to be considered done. Removing the chicken from the air fryer as soon as it reaches this temperature will help ensure that it stays juicy and tender.

Some recipes suggest brining the chicken before breading and air-frying it. Brining involves dissolving 2 tablespoons of salt in 2 cups of room-temperature water and letting the chicken sit in this solution for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours if time allows. This helps the chicken cook more evenly and results in juicier meat.

How to bread chicken

Breaded chicken is a great option for a quick, easy, and tasty meal. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to bread chicken for your air fryer:

Preparation:

Start by preparing your chicken. For even cooking, slice boneless, skinless chicken breasts in half horizontally to create two thin cutlets. If your chicken breasts are of different sizes, you can place them between plastic wrap and pound them with a rolling pin or meat mallet to even them out.

Breading Options:

There are two main ways to bread chicken:

• The first method involves dipping the chicken in a flour mixture, then egg, and finally coating it with breadcrumbs. This creates a thicker, more textured breading.
• The second method is a simpler process of dipping the chicken in seasoned breadcrumbs with a drizzle of oil. This results in a crispier texture.

Breading Process:

For the first method, start by preparing your flour mixture. Combine flour with some of the salt and pepper in a shallow bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk an egg. Finally, prepare your breadcrumbs on another plate, mixing them with the remaining salt and pepper.

For the second method, simply mix your breadcrumbs with the desired seasonings and a drizzle of oil.

Now, you're ready to start breading!

For both methods, ensure you press the breading into the chicken to ensure it sticks. You can also try using a combination of egg and flour, like in the traditional way of breading chicken, and then coating it with breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture.

Cooking:

Once your chicken is breaded, place it in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding. Preheat your air fryer to around 350-390°F (180-200°C).

Cooking time will vary based on the size of your chicken breasts, but on average, it should take around 10-15 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

And that's it! You now have perfectly breaded chicken cooked in your air fryer. Enjoy your delicious and crispy meal!

How to prevent breading from falling off during cooking

Yes, you can cook breaded chicken in an air fryer. Here are some tips to prevent the breading from falling off during cooking:

Firstly, ensure that you dry the chicken thoroughly with paper towels before coating. This will help to remove any excess moisture that could cause the breading to slip off during cooking.

Secondly, when it comes to coating the chicken, it is important to use a method that will create an even and sturdy layer. One popular method is the traditional flour, egg, and breadcrumb method. Start by coating the chicken in flour, then dip it in beaten eggs, and finally, coat it with breadcrumbs. You can also use an egg and breadcrumb method, which involves dipping the chicken in beaten eggs and then coating it with breadcrumbs. Make sure to press the breading into the chicken as you coat it to ensure an even and secure layer.

Additionally, it is important to note that the coating should be seasoned, not the chicken itself. This is because the coating is where most of the flavour comes from. Season the coating with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs and spices.

Once the chicken is coated, it is a good idea to let it sit in the fridge for a while to allow the coating to harden. This will help to keep the breading in place during cooking.

When it comes to cooking, it is important to not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Space out the chicken pieces to give them room to cook evenly and to prevent the breading from becoming soggy. You can also use air fryer parchment paper with small holes for circulation, which will help to prevent the breading from sticking to the grates of the air fryer.

Finally, be sure to flip the chicken halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking and to prevent the breading from burning.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that the breading on your chicken stays put during the cooking process.

How to store and reheat breaded chicken

Storing and reheating breaded chicken is a straightforward process that ensures you can enjoy this delicious dish again without compromising its texture and flavor. Here is a detailed guide on how to store and reheat breaded chicken:

Storing Breaded Chicken:

• Allow the chicken to cool down before storing.
• Store the chicken in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It is recommended to consume it within 3 days.
• For longer storage, wrap each piece of chicken individually in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe container. Breaded chicken can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating Breaded Chicken:

• The best methods for reheating breaded chicken are using an oven, toaster oven, or an air fryer.
• Before reheating, ensure that the chicken is completely thawed if it was frozen.
• Preheat your oven or toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). If using an air fryer, preheat it to 375°F.
• Place the chicken on a wire rack over a baking sheet or directly on the oven/toaster oven rack. This helps prevent sogginess by allowing air circulation.
• For oven reheating, cover the chicken loosely with aluminum foil to retain moisture and crispness.
• Reheat the chicken for approximately 12 to 15 minutes in the oven or toaster oven, checking occasionally to avoid overcooking.
• For air fryer reheating, let the chicken come to room temperature before placing it in the air fryer basket. Cook for about 3 to 5 minutes, flipping halfway through, until an internal thermometer shows the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F.
• After reheating, it is important to consume the chicken immediately or discard any uneaten portions if they have been left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

What temperature to cook breaded chicken at

Breaded chicken can be cooked in an air fryer at a temperature between 350°F and 425°F. The exact temperature and cooking time will depend on the type of air fryer and the thickness of the chicken.

How to cook breaded chicken in an air fryer:

Preparation:

Before cooking the chicken, you will need to prepare the breading. This can be done by mixing breadcrumbs with seasonings such as paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. You can also add Parmesan cheese to the breading mixture for extra flavor.

Once the breading is ready, you will need to coat the chicken pieces in it. This can be done by dipping the chicken in a mixture of beaten eggs and then coating them with the breading mixture. Make sure to press the breading into each piece of chicken to ensure an even coating.

Cooking:

Preheat your air fryer to the desired temperature, usually between 350°F and 425°F. Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.

Place the breaded chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded. Spray the chicken with cooking spray or olive oil to help the breading crisp up and turn golden.

Cook the chicken for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. The total cooking time will depend on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces. For thinner chicken breasts or cutlets, the cooking time will be shorter, while larger or thicker pieces will take longer.

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.

Tips for cooking breaded chicken in an air fryer:

• Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook the chicken in batches if needed to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• Flip the chicken halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and crispiness.
• Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it is cooked through.
• For extra crispy chicken, spray the chicken with cooking spray or olive oil before and after flipping.
• Choose high-quality, organic, and free-range chicken breasts for the best taste and texture.
• Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create even-sized pieces that will cook faster and stay juicy.
• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a crispier coating.
• Add grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumbs for a golden and crispy coating.
• Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Space the chicken pieces about 1-2 inches apart to allow for even cooking and browning.
• Use kitchen tongs or a spatula to flip the chicken halfway through the cooking time.
• Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer. Remove the chicken from the air fryer when it reaches 165°F.

Storing and reheating instructions:

Breaded chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

To reheat, place the chicken in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat in the microwave but it will not be as crispy.

Serving suggestions:

Breaded chicken from the air fryer can be served with a variety of sides, such as:

• Potatoes
• Roasted vegetables
• Sautéed vegetables
• Slaw
• Dipping sauces such as ranch or barbecue sauce
• Macaroni and cheese

Frequently asked questions