Crispy Air Fryer Fried Chicken Breast

Crispy Air Fryer Fried Chicken Breast – Healthier and Just as Tasty!

Using an air fryer to make fried chicken has totally changed the way I cook. You still get that crispy, golden outside and juicy inside—just like deep-fried chicken—but with way less oil. It’s faster, cleaner, and healthier, which makes it a win in every way.

If you love crispy fried chicken but want something lighter, this recipe is for you. Let’s get started!

🍗 What You’ll Need

• Chicken Breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook fast and get super crispy in the air fryer.
• Buttermilk: Makes the chicken extra tender and helps the coating stick. (No buttermilk? Mix regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar!)
• Flour: Gives the chicken a crunchy, golden crust.
• Cornstarch: Secret ingredient! It makes the outside even crispier.
• Spices: Paprika (for flavor and color), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
• Olive Oil Spray: Helps the coating crisp up in the air fryer without soaking it in oil.

📋 Ingredients List

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• Olive oil spray

👩‍🍳 How to Make It

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a bowl with the buttermilk. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes in the fridge. This makes the meat tender and flavorful.

Step 2: Make the Breading

In a separate bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Take the chicken out of the buttermilk and let the extra liquid drip off. Coat each piece in the flour mix, pressing gently so the breading sticks well.

Step 4: Air Fry It

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the basket with olive oil. Place the chicken in the basket without overlapping. Spray the tops with olive oil, then cook for 10 minutes. Flip, spray again, and cook for another 8–10 minutes, or until the chicken is golden, crispy, and reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before cutting in. This keeps it juicy. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!

👍 Helpful Tips

• Marinate for best results: Buttermilk makes the chicken juicy inside and helps the coating stick.
• Don’t skip cornstarch: It’s what gives the chicken that extra crunch!
• Preheat your air fryer: This helps everything cook evenly.
• Give space: Don’t crowd the basket. Air needs to flow for crispy results.
• Spray lightly: Just a mist of olive oil helps with crisping—too much can make it soggy.

❓ FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes! Boneless, skinless thighs work great. Just check they’re cooked through (165°F/74°C).

Do I need to flip the chicken?
Yes, flipping halfway makes both sides crispy and evenly cooked.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Definitely. Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour.

How do I know the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.

What goes well with it?
Try mashed potatoes, coleslaw, roasted veggies, or cornbread for a comforting, delicious meal.

This air fryer fried chicken breast recipe is quick, tasty, and guilt-free. Give it a try—you won’t miss the deep fryer one bit!