I’m so excited to share some of my favorite crispy chicken recipes with you today! Chicken is a weeknight hero in my kitchen, and getting that perfect crunch makes all the difference.
If you love easy dinner ideas that really deliver on flavor and texture, you’re in the right place. I’ve gathered up two fantastic ways to make chicken extra crispy, perfect for your next meal.
Jump to Recipe:
Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Breasts for Easy Dinner
These chicken breasts get super crispy in the air fryer, making them a quick and easy dinner. You’ll love how simple it is to get tender chicken with a great outer texture.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Air Fryer Chicken
- Pat Dry: Always pat your chicken completely dry before seasoning. This helps it get extra crispy in the air fryer.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Cook chicken in batches if needed. Giving each piece space helps the hot air circulate and ensures even crisping.
What You Need for Crispy Chicken Breasts
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
⏱️ Time: 20 minutes🍽️ Yields: 2 servings
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Chicken
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub them with olive oil, then sprinkle evenly with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure they are well coated.
Step 2: Air Fry
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until a meat thermometer reads 165°F (74°C).
📝 Final Note
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This keeps the juices inside and makes it more tender.
Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Baked Recipe
This classic method for Parmesan crusted chicken makes for a fantastic main dish. You will get a golden, crunchy coating with tender chicken every time, baked in the oven.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Crusted Chicken
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones gives a much lighter and crunchier crust. It’s a game-changer!
- Even Coating: Press the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the chicken. This helps it stick well and creates a thicker, more uniform crust.
What You Need for Baked Parmesan Chicken
- 2 chicken cutlets (thinly sliced breasts)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder
⏱️ Time: 30 minutes🍽️ Yields: 2 servings
How to Make Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Step 1: Set Up Breading Station
Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic powder; one with the beaten egg; and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.
Step 2: Coat and Bake
Dredge each chicken cutlet in flour, then egg, then the panko-Parmesan mixture, pressing to coat well. Place on a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
📝 Final Note
For extra crispiness, you can lightly spray the coated chicken with cooking oil before baking.