Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets | Healthy and Fast

Air fryer chicken cutlets are a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. They are definitely a dinnertime staple for us and can be served as an appetizer, main course, or even a salad topping.

These crunchy, tender chicken cutlets are a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken because they are cooked with little to no oil. This makes them a great option for those who are looking for a healthier way to enjoy chicken.

As I’ve switched over to a healthy, anti-inflammatory diet, I’ve been very careful to only consume things that will help control chronic inflammation. So I’ve eliminated a lot of what I used to eat (processed meats, sugar, packaged foods… you get the idea.) And you can get my free Top 10 Anti-Inflammatory Foods to Eat and Avoid here.

There’s no question that learning how to bring protein into my diet without bringing all the other junk has been paramount to my health success. These air fried chicken cutlets make it easy! Definitely one of my best quick and easy air fryer recipes. (Here’s my favorite air fryer if you’re looking for one.)

The Science Behind the Food

So, why exactly is this air fryer chicken cutlets recipe good for you? It’s low in fat and calories. And has a ton of very bioavailable protein, meaning your body can easily digest and use it.

Well, protein is a molecule that is a building block for many of our body’s needs. It is essential for bone and muscle repair, and hormone synthesis for progesterone, testosterone, and estrogen. Yeah… that’s pretty important.

The whole wheat bread crumbs (or Panko) are great for fiber (gotta keep that gut moving!) And the olive oil is good for you in so many ways! It’s loaded with antioxidants, which help prevent some types of cancer. And it has excellent anti-inflammatory properties.

Yep – healthy, crunchy, juicy, tender air fryer chicken cutlets are just plain good for you! And they taste great!

Ingredients In This Recipe

• Chicken Cutlets – (See full recipe below). You can buy the cutlets precut into thin breast pieces, or buy 2 full-sized chicken breasts and filet them through the middle to give you four thin breast pieces.
• Eggs – I use the whole egg but feel free to only use the whites if you prefer.
• Whole Wheat Panko – Regular will also work and you can use gluten-free, if necessary.
• Italian seasonings – You can really use any seasonings you’re in the mood for.
• Salt and Pepper to taste – different brands of salt have a different level of “saltiness” so it’s important to know you’re own salt. I start with a teaspoon, but I often need to add a little more after it’s cooked.

How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees (if your manufacturer suggests preheating. Some do. Some don’t). (See full recipe below). Spray or lightly wipe the air fryer basket with cooking oil (olive or avocado oil are the best.)
2. Beat the eggs in a shallow dish. Then combine the Panko, salt, and pepper in a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip the cutlets into the egg mixture and let the excess drain off then dredge them in the Panko mixture.
4. Place the chicken cutlets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not crowd them. You may need to do 2 batches depending on the size of your basket.
5. Cook the chicken cutlets for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking process.
6. Serve immediately as a main dish, chopped on a salad, or in a stir fry.

Tips for Making Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets

Here are a few tips for making air fryer chicken cutlets:

• Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are cut in half, thickness-wise. This will make the chicken cutlets cook more evenly.
• Use a light coating of olive oil on the air fryer basket. This will help prevent the chicken cutlets from sticking.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. If you have too many chicken cutlets, you may need to cook them in batches.
• Cook the chicken cutlets for 10-12 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown, flipping them over halfway through the cooking process.

Serving Ideas for Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets

You can serve these cutlets in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas:

• Top a salad with air fryer chicken cutlets.
• Serve them on a whole wheat bun with your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, and a sprinkling of feta or goat cheese.
• Add them to a stir-fry.
• Use them as a topping for a homemade pizza.

And if you’re looking for more healthy, quick and easy air fryer recipes, check these out! Air fryer frozen shrimp, air fryer tilapia, and roasted chickpeas. Yum!

Enjoy!

Air fryer chicken cutlets are a delicious and healthy way to enjoy chicken. They are quick and easy to make and are so versatile. So next time you are looking for a healthy and delicious meal, give ’em a try.