Air Fryer Chicken Strips (Printable)

Crispy chicken strips with golden breading and juicy center, made healthier using an air fryer with minimal oil.

# What You Need:

→ Chicken

01 - 1.1 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips

→ Breading

02 - 3/4 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
03 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
04 - 1 teaspoon paprika
05 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
06 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
07 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
08 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Wet Mix

09 - 2 large eggs
10 - 2 tablespoons low-fat milk

→ For Air Frying

11 - Olive oil spray

# How-To:

01 - Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes.
02 - Pat chicken strips dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
03 - In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs and low-fat milk until well combined.
04 - In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
05 - Dip each chicken strip into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure adhesion.
06 - Arrange coated strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray both sides with olive oil spray.
07 - Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
08 - Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • They cook in twelve minutes flat, which means dinner can happen even when you forgot to plan it.
  • The air fryer gives you that deep-fried crackle without heating a vat of oil or setting off the smoke alarm.
  • Whole wheat breadcrumbs and lean chicken make them feel like a win, even on a busy weeknight.
  • Kids and adults both reach for seconds, which is rare enough to celebrate.
02 -
  • If you skip drying the chicken, the breading will slide right off in sad little clumps, I learned this the hard way on my first attempt.
  • Don't overcrowd the basket or the strips will steam instead of crisp, cook in batches if you need to.
  • A quick spray of oil on both sides makes all the difference between pale and properly golden.
03 -
  • Press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken firmly but gently, like you're tucking in a blanket, it helps them stay put during cooking.
  • If your air fryer runs hot, start checking at the 10 minute mark to avoid overcooking, every model is a little different.
  • Use a meat thermometer if you're unsure, 75°C internal is your safe zone and guarantees juicy chicken every time.
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