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Plate of crispy breaded chicken cutlets with one cut in half, garnished with parsley and lemon wedges

Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets

Crispy breaded air fryer chicken cutlets with a juicy center, ready in about 25 minutes for an easy family dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts sliced into 4–6 thin cutlets
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 3/4 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan optional
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • olive oil spray

Equipment

  • 1 Air fryer
  • 2 Shallow bowls
  • 1 Meat mallet optional
  • 1 Instant-read thermometer

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken dry. If needed, gently pound each cutlet to an even 1/2-inch thickness.
  2. Place the beaten eggs in one shallow bowl. In a second bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan, salt, and black pepper.
    Raw chicken cutlets, eggs, spices, breadcrumbs, grated cheese, measuring cups, and olive oil on a wooden surface
  3. Dip each cutlet in egg, let the excess drip away, then press both sides into the breadcrumb mixture.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for about 3 minutes if your model benefits from preheating.
  5. Lightly spray the basket. Arrange the cutlets in one uncrowded layer, then lightly spray the tops. Cook in batches if needed.
    Breaded chicken cutlets with oil drops in an air fryer basket ready to cook
  6. Cook at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway and spraying any dry breading spots. Begin checking early because thickness and air-fryer models vary.
  7. Use an instant-read thermometer in the thickest part. Chicken is safely cooked when it reaches 165°F. Rest for 3 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Even thickness is the best protection against dry edges and an undercooked center.
  • Do not crowd the basket; cook in batches if the cutlets overlap.
  • A light oil mist helps the breadcrumbs turn golden without becoming greasy.
  • Air fryer models vary, so begin checking before the maximum time.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat at 350°F for 3–5 minutes, checking early.