- Dredge the Chicken:
· Pat the chicken pieces completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for the coating to stick.
· Working one piece at a time, coat the chicken in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess.
· Next, dip it into the egg mixture, allowing the excess to drip off.
· Finally, press the chicken firmly into the Panko-Parmesan mixture, ensuring it’s fully and evenly coated. Place the coated piece on a clean plate.
- Air Fry to Perfection:
· Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
· Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil. Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they are not touching. You may need to cook in batches.
· Generously spray the tops of the chicken pieces with olive oil spray. This is the secret to achieving a golden-brown, crispy finish.
· Air fry for 10 minutes.
· Flip the chicken pieces over, spray the other side with oil, and air fry for another 5-8 minutes, or until the chicken is deeply golden brown, crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve:
· Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving (it will be very hot!). Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauces.
Tips for the Ultimate Crispy Chicken
· The Power of Panko: Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and flakier than traditional breadcrumbs, creating a much crispier texture. Don’t substitute them if you can help it!
· Don’t Skip the Preheating: A preheated air fryer ensures the coating starts crisping up immediately, preventing a soggy crust.
· No Overcrowding: Air circulation is key! If the basket is too crowded, the chicken will steam instead of crisp.
· Why Spray the Oil? The oil helps the Panko brown and become perfectly crispy, mimicking deep-frying.
· For Extra Flavor: Marinate the chicken in buttermilk for 30 minutes before starting for an even more tender result. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour for a little heat.
Enjoy your incredibly delicious, fast, and healthier “Crispy Air Fryer Golden Chicken Delight”! It’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.
