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Crispy Air Fryer Ranch Chicken Breast

This crispy air fryer ranch chicken breast is juicy on the inside with a flavorful, crunchy coating on the outside. A blend of ranch seasoning, Parmesan, and breadcrumbs creates a golden crust that's full of savory flavor. It's an easy high-protein dinner that's ready in just 30 minutes and perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings: 2 people
Course: dinner, lounch
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon milk
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Cooking spray
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish, optional
  • Ranch dressing for serving, optional

Method
 

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3 to 5 minutes.
  2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If they are thick, pound them to an even thickness.
  3. In one shallow bowl, whisk together the egg and milk.
  4. In another bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper.
  5. Brush the chicken breasts lightly with olive oil.
  6. Dip each chicken breast into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the coating sticks.
  7. Lightly spray both sides of the breaded chicken with cooking spray.
  8. Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between each piece.
  9. Air fry for 10 minutes, then carefully flip the chicken and lightly spray the top with cooking spray.
  10. Continue cooking for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the coating is crispy and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  11. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  12. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with ranch dressing if desired.

Notes

  • Panko breadcrumbs create the crispiest coating, but regular breadcrumbs also work.
  • Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket so the chicken crisps evenly.
  • Spray the breading lightly with cooking spray for a golden, crunchy finish.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3 to 4 minutes to keep the coating crispy.