Craving crispy, juicy chicken without all the oil? This Air Fryer Breaded Chicken Breast is the perfect recipe! It’s super easy to make, comes out golden brown and crunchy, and tastes like something from a restaurant. The secret? A simple coating of mayo and panko breadcrumbs that keeps the chicken moist inside while giving it the perfect crispy outside. Plus, the air fryer makes it way healthier than deep frying—without losing any of the crunch! Whether you’re making dinner for the family or just want an easy meal, this recipe will be your new favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy & Golden: Air fryer ensures a crunchy texture without excessive oil.
- Juicy & Tender: Mayo keeps the chicken moist while panko creates the crunch.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes with minimal prep.
- Kid-Friendly & Family Approved: A great alternative to store-bought breaded chicken.
Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless (or use chicken tenders).
- Mayonnaise: Helps the panko adhere and keeps the chicken juicy.
- Dijon or Yellow Mustard: Adds a tangy kick and enhances flavor.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Adds extra crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Optional: Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
How to Make Breaded Chicken Breast in the Air Fryer
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
- Pat chicken dry with a paper towel.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
Step 2: Make the Mayo-Mustard Coating
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise and Dijon (or yellow) mustard until well combined (picture 4 above).
- Spread a thin layer of this mixture evenly over each chicken breast. This helps the panko stick while adding flavor and moisture (picture 1 below).
3: Coat with Panko Mixture
- In a separate bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with additional seasonings (and Parmesan, if using).
- Press each mayo-mustard-coated chicken breast into the panko mixture, ensuring an even coating on all sides (picture 2 above).
4: Air Fry to Perfection
- Preheat air fryer to 390°F (195°C) for a few minutes.
- Arrange breaded chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket (don’t overcrowd).
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with Air Fryer Baked Potatoes, Roasted Veggies, or a Fresh Cucumber salad.
- Pair with dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or Chipotle mayo.
- Slice and add to sandwiches, wraps, or salads for a meal prep option.
Variations & Substitutions
- Make it Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mayo.
- Low-Carb Option: Use crushed pork rinds instead of panko.
- Gluten-Free Version: Swap panko for gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Dairy-Free: Omit parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
Yes, but panko gives a lighter, crispier texture. Regular breadcrumbs will work but may result in a denser coating.
2. Do I need to flip the chicken in the air fryer?
Yes, flipping the chicken halfway through helps it cook evenly and ensures both sides get crispy.
3. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
It’s best to thaw them first for even cooking. If using frozen chicken, add a few extra minutes to the cook time and check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
4. Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
I recommend preheating for the crispiest results, but if you skip it, just add 1-2 extra minutes to the cooking time.
5. How do I keep my chicken from drying out?
Using mayonnaise and mustard in the coating helps lock in moisture. Also, avoid overcooking—use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (75°C).
6. Can I make this recipe without mayo?
Yes! You can substitute Greek yogurt, sour cream, or even a beaten egg to help the panko stick.
7. How do I make it spicier?
Add cayenne pepper, chili powder, or a dash of hot sauce to the mayo-mustard mixture for extra heat.
8. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken for up to 3 months, then reheat in the air fryer. I suggest slicing the chicken into ½-inch strips before freezing for easier reheating and portioning.
Easy Air Fryer Breaded Chicken Breast Recipe – Crispy & Juicy!
Crispy air fryer chicken breast coated in mustard and mayo, then rolled in Panko is a delicious and easy to make chicken dish. The key to making this dish crispy is to coat the chicken in a thin layer of mustard and mayo, then dip it in Panko breadcrumbs.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 17 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 314 kcal
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts sliced in half lengthwise.
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 Tablespoons mustard Dijon or yellow mustard
- 1 cup Panko bread crumbs or Pork Panko for a low-carb version
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prep the Chicken: Pat chicken dry with a paper towel. Slice the chicken breast in half lengthwise, so you get four ½ inch to ¾ inch thick chicken breasts. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Make the Mayo-Mustard Coating: In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise and Dijon (or yellow) mustard until well combined. Spread a thin layer of this mixture evenly over each chicken breast. This helps the panko stick while adding flavor and moisture.
- Coat with Panko Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with additional seasonings (and Parmesan, if using). Press each mayo-mustard-coated chicken breast into the panko mixture, ensuring an even coating on all sides.
- Air fry: Preheat air fryer to 390°F (195°C) for a few minutes. Arrange breaded chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket (don’t overcrowd). Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before serving.
Notes
Variations & Substitutions
- Make it Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mayo.
- Low-Carb Option: Use crushed pork rinds instead of panko.
- Gluten-Free Version: Swap panko for gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Dairy-Free: Omit parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Nutrition
Serving: 1 serving Calories: 314kcal Carbohydrates: 10g Protein: 18g Fat: 27g Saturated Fat: 6g Polyunsaturated Fat: 13g Monounsaturated Fat: 6g Trans Fat: 0.1g Cholesterol: 59mg Sodium: 655mg Potassium: 291mg Fiber: 1g Sugar: 1g Vitamin A: 272IU Vitamin C: 1mg Calcium: 150mg Iron: 1mg
