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Homemade Air-Fryer Chicken Cutlets (Crispy, No Oil Mess) photo

Air-Fryer Chicken Cutlets (Crispy, No Oil Mess)

These Air-Fryer Chicken Cutlets are crispy, juicy, and oil-free! Quick and easy, they deliver golden crunch with zero mess—perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound chicken cutlets thinly sliced
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs plain or seasoned, panko works well
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 eggs whisked
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper
  • cooking spray for air fryer basket and cutlets

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Shallow bowls or plates
  • Tongs
  • Meat mallet (optional)
  • Baking rack (optional)

Method
 

  1. Pat chicken cutlets dry with paper towels. Pound with meat mallet to about 1/4 inch thickness if needed.
  2. Whisk eggs in one shallow bowl. In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Dip each cutlet into egg mixture, then press into breadcrumb mixture until coated well. Repeat for all cutlets.
  4. Lightly spray air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange breaded cutlets in single layer without overlapping.
  5. Spray top of cutlets lightly with cooking spray. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through to 165°F internal temperature.
  6. Remove cutlets, let rest for a few minutes. Serve immediately with your favorite sides or in sandwiches.

Notes

  • Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even crisping and airflow.
  • Use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crunchier texture.
  • Adjust seasonings such as smoked paprika or add herbs for varied flavors.
  • Rest cutlets after cooking to lock in juices and maintain crispiness.
  • Freeze uncooked breaded cutlets for easy future meals; cook from frozen adding a few extra minutes.