Our air fryer chicken cutlets are a lightened-up alternative to a classic dish. Breaded with Italian spices and egg whites, this air fryer version is an easier, healthier, and incredibly versatile lunch or dinner option.
Chicken cutlets are delicious when served with pasta, rice, or potatoes or added to sandwiches or salads. All you need for this simple recipe is chicken breasts, breadcrumbs, Italian spices, and egg whites. The Air Fryer helps the chicken cutlets cook evenly and stay crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside while reducing the fat and calories of traditionally fried cutlets.
Why you should try this recipe
Chicken cutlets in the air fryer are an easier and healthier take on an Italian classic. This recipe couldn’t be any easier, and it’s got the perfect balance of flavor and crunch. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Minimal ingredients: All you need is chicken breasts, breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, egg whites, and olive oil!
- So versatile: You can serve Chicken Cutlets with a variety of side dishes, such as pasta, rice, or potatoes. You can also serve them in sandwiches or salads.
- Protein-packed: Each serving of Chicken Cutlets provides 31 grams of protein, which is about half of the recommended daily intake of protein for an adult.
- Healthy option: This air fryer recipe is lower in fat and calories than the traditional version.
- Quick and easy: The air fryer cuts down cooking time and requires minimal cleanup. The recipe is ready in just 20 minutes total time!
Servings: 4
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Each serving is 1 Weight Watchers point.
Ingredients
- 600 g. of skinless, boneless chicken breasts.
- 2 egg whites.
- ½ cup of Italian breadcrumbs, 50 g.
- Salt and pepper to taste.
Instructions for making Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets
- Preheat the air fryer to 200 degrees C. In a shallow bowl, whisk the egg whites with salt and pepper.
- In another shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs.
- Dip each chicken breast in the egg whites, then in the breadcrumbs, making sure to coat it well.
- Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Enjoy!
Variations and substitutions
- Top the chicken cutlets with two tablespoons of marinara sauce and a slice of cheese. Bake at 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Make a Keto variation of the recipe by replacing the breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds. Top the chicken cutlets with the crushed pork rinds and bake at 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the pork rinds are crispy.
- Add a pinch of fresh herbs to the breading mixture. Some fresh herbs that pair well with chicken are oregano, thyme, and rosemary.
- Top the chicken cutlets with a sauce before baking. Some sauces that pair well with chicken are soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, and barbecue sauce.
Tips and Tricks Section for Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets
1. For optimal cooking and tenderness, ensure the chicken breasts are thinly sliced to a consistent thickness. Using a sharp knife, slice the chicken horizontally, aiming for uniform pieces that cook evenly. To achieve uniform cooking, gently pound the chicken slices with a meat mallet or the flat side of a heavy pan. This evens out any irregularities and ensures all parts of the cutlet cook at the same rate.
2. For a perfectly crispy exterior, coat the chicken cutlets with seasoned breading. An effective method is placing the breadcrumbs in a sealable plastic container along with the chicken. Seal the container and gently shake to evenly coat the cutlets with breadcrumbs. This technique saves time and minimizes mess.
3. Start by preheating your air fryer. Just like with an oven, this step ensures that the chicken begins cooking in a hot environment, promoting a crispy exterior. Arrange the breaded chicken cutlets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding, as this allows hot air to circulate freely, leading to even cooking and a crunchy texture.
4. Halfway through the cooking time, flip the chicken cutlets over. This guarantees even browning on both sides, resulting in a beautifully golden finish.
Related Recipes
Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets
Ingredients
- 600 g. chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 2 egg whites
- ½ cup Italian breadcrumbs, 50 g.
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 200 degrees C. In a shallow bowl, whisk the egg whites with salt and pepper.
- In another shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs.
- Dip each chicken breast in the egg whites, then in the breadcrumbs, making sure to coat it well.
- Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
