Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets

Juicy, tender, and irresistibly crispy—these Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets are the perfect go-to for a healthier comfort food fix. Coated in a golden, seasoned breadcrumb crust and cooked without the need for excess oil, these cutlets are perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or pairing with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, fresh salad, or pasta.

Whether you’re craving a protein-packed lunch or a satisfying dinner, this recipe delivers big flavor with less mess and guilt.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy, not greasy: Thanks to the air fryer, these cutlets achieve that deep-fried crunch using minimal oil.

Quick and easy: From prep to plate in under 40 minutes (excluding marinating time).

Versatile: Serve them in wraps, salads, sandwiches, or alongside grains and veggies.

Kid-friendly and adult-approved: Mild, comforting flavor with just enough seasoning.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken Cutlets:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (8 oz each), trimmed

½ teaspoon kosher salt

½ teaspoon garlic powder

¼ cup Italian dressing (for marinade)

1 teaspoon dry Italian seasoning

1 large egg, beaten

¾ cup seasoned whole wheat breadcrumbs (store-bought or homemade)

2 tablespoons grated Parmesan or Romano cheese

Olive oil spray

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Equipment

Air fryer

Meat mallet or rolling pin

Shallow bowls for dredging

Tongs

Cutting board and knife

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to create 4 thinner cutlets. Place between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and pound to an even ¼-inch thickness using a meat mallet.

Step 2: Marinate

Place the cutlets in a shallow dish or resealable bag. Sprinkle with salt, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Pour over the Italian dressing, toss to coat evenly, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best flavor).

Step 3: Set Up Breading Station

In one shallow bowl, beat the egg.

In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and grated cheese.

Step 4: Bread the Cutlets

Remove chicken from marinade and shake off excess. Dip each cutlet into the egg, then press into the breadcrumb-cheese mixture, coating both sides evenly. Place the breaded cutlets on a clean plate or tray and lightly spray both sides with olive oil spray.

Step 5: Air Fry

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Working in batches if needed, arrange the cutlets in a single layer in the basket.

Air fry for 4 minutes on one side until golden.

Flip the cutlets, spray again with oil, and cook for another 3–4 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).

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Serving Ideas

Serve over a bed of arugula with cherry tomatoes and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Slice and add to your favorite pasta for an easy chicken parm twist.

Tuck into a sandwich or wrap with lettuce, tomato, and chipotle mayo.

Plate with roasted potatoes and steamed green beans for a balanced dinner.

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Recipe Tips

Don’t skip the marinade! It adds moisture and depth of flavor.

Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Want it spicier? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the breadcrumb mixture.

Batch-cook and freeze: These cutlets reheat beautifully in the air fryer.

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 268

Protein: 30.5 g

Carbohydrates: 14 g

Fat: 9.5 g

Fiber: 0.5 g

Saturated Fat: 1.5 g

Cholesterol: 131.5 mg

Sodium: 743 mg

Sugar: 2 g

> Note: Nutrition includes adjustments for excess marinade and unused breadcrumbs.

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Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets are everything you love about crispy fried chicken—without the mess or oil. They’re fast, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable for whatever you’re craving. Once you try this method, you may never go back to pan-frying!