Introduction
For a delicious and healthy dinner option, try this Air Fryer Herb-Crusted Chicken Breast. Juicy on the inside and perfectly crispy on the outside, it’s a meal that the whole family will enjoy, and it’s ready in no time with minimal effort. This dish combines simplicity and flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chicken breasts
4 chicken breasts (about 600g total)
Olive oil
30 ml olive oil
Dried Italian herbs
15 g dried Italian herbs
Garlic powder
5 g garlic powder
Onion powder
5 g onion powder
Smoked paprika
5 g smoked paprika
Salt
3 g salt
Ground black pepper
2 g ground black pepper
Panko breadcrumbs
60 g panko breadcrumbs
Grated Parmesan cheese
20 g grated Parmesan cheese
Prep Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions
1. Preheat the air fryer to 190°C (375°F).
2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure they crisp up well in the air fryer.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, Italian herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the chicken breasts generously with the olive oil and herb mixture on all sides.
5. In another bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
6. Press the chicken breasts into the breadcrumb mixture until they are well-coated on all sides.
7. Place the chicken breasts in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap.
8. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) and the exterior is golden brown.
9. Remove from the air fryer and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Begin by preheating your air fryer to 190°C (375°F). This step ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and develops a crispy exterior.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Breasts
Using paper towels, pat the chicken breasts dry. Remove excess moisture to enhance crispiness during cooking.
Step 3: Mix the Herb Mixture
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, dried Italian herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to create a fragrant herb-infused oil.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Generously brush the chicken breasts on all sides with the olive oil and herb mixture. Make sure each piece is evenly covered to maximize flavor.
Step 5: Prepare the Breadcrumb Coating
In a separate bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. This mixture will provide a delightful crunch and cheesy flavor.
Step 6: Coat the Chicken in Breadcrumbs
Press each herb-coated chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring they are well-coated on all sides. The panko will create a light and crispy crust.
Step 7: Arrange in the Air Fryer
Place the chicken breasts in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure proper air circulation and even cooking.
Step 8: Cook the Chicken
Cook the chicken for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) for safe consumption and a perfectly cooked result.
Step 9: Rest Before Serving
Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in moist chicken.
Notes
Cooking Time Variations
Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts. Thicker cuts may require additional minutes to fully cook.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the herb-crusted chicken with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or your favorite grain for a complete meal.
Flavor Variations
Feel free to customize the herb mixture; add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for added depth. For a spicy kick, a pinch of cayenne pepper can enhance the flavor profile.
Grilling Option
For those without an air fryer, this recipe can also be adapted for the grill. Just make sure to preheat the grill and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Family-Friendly Appeal
This dish is loved by both kids and adults, making it a great choice for family dinners. The crispy texture and savory flavor are sure to please everyone at the table.
Quick Prep
The entire preparation process is quick, making this a perfect option for busy weeknights when you want something tasty and healthy without spending hours in the kitchen.
Cook techniques
Preheating the Air Fryer
Preheating your air fryer ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and achieves the desired crispy texture.
Drying the Chicken
Patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels removes excess moisture, which helps them crisp up better during cooking.
Making the Herb Mixture
Combining olive oil with herbs and spices creates a flavorful coating that adds both moisture and taste to the chicken.
Coating with Breadcrumbs
Pressing the chicken into the panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese mixture ensures an even, crunchy exterior.
Flipping for Even Cooking
Flipping the chicken halfway through the cooking time allows for even browning and helps prevent any part from becoming too dry.
Testing for Doneness
Using a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) ensures the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Resting the Chicken
Letting the chicken rest after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, making for a juicier and more flavorful bite.
FAQ
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried ones?
Yes, you can substitute fresh herbs for dried ones; just use approximately three times the amount since fresh herbs have a milder flavor.
What can I serve with herb-crusted chicken?
This chicken pairs well with a variety of sides like roasted vegetables, salads, or whole grains such as quinoa or brown rice.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I reheat the chicken in the air fryer?
Yes, you can reheat the chicken in the air fryer at a lower temperature (around 160°C or 320°F) for a few minutes until warmed through.
What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs can be used, but the texture may be slightly different.
Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken overnight can enhance the flavor even more. Just be sure to adjust cooking time if the chicken is particularly thick.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this herb-crusted chicken is great for meal prep and can be stored in portioned containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Conclusion
This Air Fryer Herb-Crusted Chicken Breast is not only delicious but also a healthy choice for family dinners. Its quick preparation and cooking time make it an excellent option for busy weeknights. With a crispy exterior and juicy interior, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
More recipes suggestions and combination
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Marinate chicken thighs in a blend of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for a zesty twist. Cook in the air fryer for another delicious weeknight meal.
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Air Fryer Chicken and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Combine cubed chicken breast with colorful vegetables and a savory stir-fry sauce. Cook in the air fryer for a quick and healthy one-pan meal.
Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
Top the herb-crusted chicken breasts with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, then air fry until the cheese is bubbly and golden for a classic Italian dish.
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Coat chicken breasts in a mixture of honey and mustard before air frying. The result is a sweet and tangy flavor that’s hard to resist.
Air Fryer Garlic and Herb Roasted Potatoes
Pair your chicken with air-fried garlic and herb seasoned potatoes for a complete meal that’s bursting with flavor.
Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken Breast
Stuff chicken breasts with spinach, cream cheese, and herbs, then air fry for a delectable dish that’s both filling and healthy.
