If you’re craving something crispy, satisfying, and fast, this 15-Minute Air Fryer Chicken is about to become your go-to dinner. Made with simple pantry ingredients and cooked to golden perfection in the air fryer, this recipe delivers all the crunch you love — without deep frying. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, picky eaters, and anyone looking for a healthier chicken dinner that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
Why You’ll Love This 15-Minute Air Fryer Chicken
This recipe checks all the boxes for an easy, family-friendly meal.
- Quick cook time: Dinner is ready in about 15 minutes
- Crispy texture: Panko breadcrumbs create a crunchy coating
- Healthier option: Uses minimal oil compared to frying
- Simple ingredients: No special tools or hard-to-find items
- Versatile: Serve it as-is or use it in salads, wraps, or bowls
Whether you’re new to air frying or already obsessed, this chicken recipe is foolproof and delicious every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- Olive oil spray or a light brush of oil
How to Make 15-Minute Air Fryer Chicken (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Slice the chicken breasts horizontally or pound them until they are about ½-inch thick. This ensures even cooking and keeps the chicken juicy.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
In one bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. In a second bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off. Press the chicken into the seasoned panko, coating both sides thoroughly.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with oil. Preheat to 390°F for about 3 minutes.
Step 5: Air Fry Until Crispy
Place the chicken in a single layer in the basket. Lightly spray the tops with oil. Cook for 7–8 minutes per side, flipping once, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Let the chicken rest for 2–3 minutes before serving to lock in the juices.
Easy 15-Minute Air Fryer Chicken Dinner
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
This 15-Minute Air Fryer Chicken delivers crispy, golden perfection without deep frying. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s a healthier way to enjoy “fried” chicken any night of the week using simple pantry spices and panko.
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup panko bread crumbs
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs
Olive oil spray (or light brush of oil)
Instructions
1. Slice chicken breasts horizontally or pound to about 1/2-inch thickness for even cooking.
2. Whisk eggs in one bowl. In a separate bowl, combine panko, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken piece in egg, then press into the seasoned panko until fully coated.
4. Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with oil and preheat to 390°F for 3 minutes.
5. Place chicken in a single layer. Spray tops lightly with oil. Cook 7–8 minutes per side, flipping once, until golden and internal temp reaches 165°F.
6. Rest 2–3 minutes before serving to lock in juices.
Notes
For extra crispiness, lightly spray both sides with oil before air frying.
Do not overcrowd the basket—cook in batches if needed.
Gluten-free option: use gluten-free panko.
Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes to restore crispiness.
Nutrition values are estimates and will vary by brand and portion size.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken cutlet
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 145 mg
Tips & Variations
- Extra crispy: Spray a light coat of oil on both sides before cooking
- Spicy kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breading
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free panko or crushed rice cereal
- Kid-friendly: Serve with ketchup, ranch, or honey mustard
- Cheesy version: Mix grated Parmesan into the breadcrumbs
Serving Ideas & Storage
Serve this air fryer chicken with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. It also works beautifully sliced over pasta, tucked into wraps, or layered on sandwiches.
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes to restore crispiness.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~320 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fat | 11g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | ~620mg |
Final Thoughts
This 15-Minute Air Fryer Chicken proves that fast food at home can still be fresh, crispy, and wholesome. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat for weeknights, meal prep, or anytime you need dinner in a hurry.