When craving a dinner that’s both quick and satisfying, look no further than these Easy Shake and Bake Chicken Cutlets made in the air fryer! I first discovered this delightful recipe on a hectic weeknight, desperate for a fast solution that didn’t compromise on flavor. In just 25 minutes, you can have succulent chicken cutlets with a crunchy coating that’s perfect for any palate.
Imagine this: the aroma of crispy chicken fills your kitchen as you prepare to dive into a plateful of tender, juicy goodness. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its taste but in its versatility—pair it with a crisp salad, creamy mac and cheese, or roasted veggies for a complete meal that family and friends will rave about. So dust off your air fryer and let’s whip up a dinner that will replace those boring takeout nights with a homemade masterpiece!
Why is Shake and Bake Chicken in Air Fryer a Game Changer?
Quick Cooking: In just 25 minutes, you can serve a deliciously crispy chicken that’s ready to impress.
Satisfying Crunch: Every bite delivers a sensational crunch, thanks to the perfectly seasoned coating.
Flexible Flavor: Customize your experience with store-bought or homemade Shake and Bake options—perfect for any palate!
Healthy Alternative: Enjoy that fried chicken taste without the guilt, making it a lighter choice for weeknight meals.
Family Friendly: Appeal to kids and adults alike, transforming dinner into a delightful experience everyone will love.
For more tips on easy dinners, check out our guide on 30-Minute Meals.
Shake and Bake Chicken Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need for this delicious Shake and Bake Chicken in Air Fryer recipe!
- For the Coating
- Shake N Bake Coating Mix – Provides flavor and breading; feel free to use a homemade mix for more control over the taste!
- Plain Bread Crumbs (2 cups) – Give structure and texture if opting for a homemade mix.
- Table Salt (2 tsp) – Enhances flavor and balances the dish beautifully.
- Paprika (2.5 tsp) – Adds color and a mild, smoky flavor to your chicken.
- Onion Powder (1 tsp) – Provides depth and enhances the savory goodness.
- Garlic Powder (1 tsp) – Brings an aromatic touch that elevates the dish.
- Pepper (0.5 tsp) – Adds a gentle kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- For the Chicken
- Thinly Sliced Chicken Breasts Cutlets (1 – 1.5 lb) – The main protein source, perfect for tender and juicy bites; chicken thighs can be used for a richer flavor.
- Olive Oil Spray – Helps achieve that crave-worthy crispiness while air frying; spray generously on the coated chicken before cooking.
Enjoy making this easy, flavorful dish, perfect for any weeknight!
How to Make Shake and Bake Chicken in Air Fryer
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. This step is crucial for achieving that golden-brown perfection. Let it run for about 5 minutes while you prep the chicken!
- Prepare Coating: In a freezer-sized bag, combine the bread crumbs, salt, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and pepper for a homemade mix. If using store-bought, add the Shake N Bake to the bag instead.
- Coat Chicken: Add the chicken cutlets one at a time into the bag. Seal and shake until the chicken is well-coated. Transfer the coated cutlets onto a plate and discard any leftover coating.
- Cook Chicken: Place the coated chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket (you may need to cook in batches). Lightly spray with olive oil and cook for 7-9 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches 165°F internally.
- Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for 3 minutes before slicing. This helps retain its juices and maintain that delightful crispiness.
Optional: Serve with lemon wedges for added zest!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Shake and Bake Chicken in Air Fryer
Fridge: Store cooked Shake and Bake Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This keeps it fresh while ensuring you can enjoy those flavorful leftovers!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil or place in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in the air fryer at 375°F for about 6-8 minutes until warmed through. This will help restore the crispy texture and delightful taste.
Cooling: Always let the chicken cool completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup, which can make the coating soggy.
Make Ahead Options
These Shake and Bake Chicken in Air Fryer cutlets are fantastic for meal prep lovers looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can easily coat the chicken cutlets up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the coating instructions and store them in the refrigerator in a sealed bag. To ensure the best texture, make sure the coated chicken is stored flat to prevent the breading from clumping. When you’re ready to serve, just pop the cold cutlets into the air fryer and cook them as directed, allowing an extra minute or two of cooking time if needed. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, homemade dinner with minimal effort, perfect for busier days!
Expert Tips for Shake and Bake Chicken
- Avoid Sogginess: Let your chicken cool completely before cutting; this prevents the coating from becoming soggy and keeps it crunchy.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure optimal air circulation, which leads to even cooking.
- Cooling Racks Help: Place the cooked chicken on a cooling rack rather than a plate to let excess moisture escape and maintain crispiness.
- Elevate Your Flavor: Try experimenting with different Shake N Bake flavors like ranch or parmesan for a delightful twist on your Shake and Bake Chicken in Air Fryer.
- Homemade Mix Tip: If using a homemade Shake and Bake mix, adjust spices according to personal preference for a tailored taste experience.
What to Serve with Shake and Bake Chicken in Air Fryer?
Elevate your dinner table with delicious sides that perfectly complement the crispy chicken!
- Creamy Mac and Cheese: A classic comfort food, mac and cheese adds a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the crispy chicken.
- Garlic Green Beans: Simple, sautéed green beans infused with garlic bring a fresh crunch and a burst of flavor, balancing the dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies caramelized to perfection add earthiness to your plate and enhance the meal’s color and nutrients.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with tangy dressing and crunchy croutons creates a refreshing contrast to the fried chicken.
- Coleslaw: The creamy, tangy slaw brings a delightful crunch while cooling and balancing the savory warmth of the chicken.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy on the outside and sweet on the inside, these provide a comforting alternative to traditional fries, adding sweetness.
- Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon elevates the flavor profile, giving a zesty kick that enhances the chicken’s deliciousness.
- Homemade Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits offer a warm and buttery side that would complement the dish splendidly, perfect for sopping up juices.
- Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea can cleanse your palate, making each bite of crispy chicken even more enjoyable.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: Finish your meal on a sweet note with warm cookies, a family favorite that adds nostalgia to your dinner experience.
Shake and Bake Chicken in Air Fryer Variations
Feel free to get creative with these fun twists and substitutions that can elevate your Shake and Bake Chicken experience!
- Thighs Instead of Breasts: Swap out chicken cutlets for juicy thighs, enhancing tenderness and flavor. Thighs provide a richer taste that’s hard to resist.
- Gluten-Free Breadcrumbs: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a delicious alternative that caters to dietary needs without sacrificing taste. Every crunchy bite will still deliver that satisfying experience!
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the coating mix for an exciting heat that will awaken your taste buds. Perfect for those who appreciate a little extra spice in their meals!
- Cheesy Delight: Mix in grated parmesan or cheddar into the breadcrumb coating for an extra layer of cheesy goodness that melts beautifully over the chicken. It’s comfort food elevated!
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate dried herbs like oregano or thyme into the coating. This will add a fragrant, earthy aroma that complements the chicken beautifully, transporting your dinner to new heights.
- Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika instead of regular for a deeper, smoky flavor that will enhance the overall savory profile of your dish. It’s like a barbecue in an air fryer!
- Zesty Citrus: Add lemon or lime zest to the coating mix for a bright, refreshing flavor. This extra zing can be a delightful surprise that balances the richness of the chicken.
- Pesto Twist: Brush your chicken cutlets with pesto before coating, giving them a fresh, herbaceous flavor that packs a punch. This variation brings a taste of Italy right to your dinner table!
Shake and Bake Chicken in Air Fryer Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For Shake and Bake Chicken in Air Fryer, I recommend using thinly sliced chicken breast cutlets, typically around 1 to 1.5 lbs. These cook quickly and stay tender. If you prefer a richer flavor, boneless, skinless chicken thighs also work beautifully! Just ensure they are similarly sized for even cooking.
How should I store leftovers?
To store cooked Shake and Bake Chicken, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. This way, you can enjoy those tasty leftovers on a busy day. Just remember to let the chicken cool completely before storing to keep the coating crispy and avoid excess moisture.
Can I freeze Shake and Bake Chicken?
Yes, you can! Allow the cooked chicken to cool completely, then tightly wrap it in plastic wrap and foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. This method helps prevent freezer burn. It should stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for about 6-8 minutes!
What if the coating becomes soggy after storing?
If you find your chicken’s coating isn’t as crunchy after storing, it’s a sign that moisture has built up. To avoid this, always let the chicken cool fully before sealing it up. When reheating, consider using the air fryer to revive that crispy texture—it’s the best method for restoring the original crunch.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very! If you have dietary restrictions, feel free to tweak this recipe. You can make a gluten-free version by simply using gluten-free breadcrumbs in your coating mix. If you’re looking to be health-conscious, opt for a spray oil versus regular cooking oil for a lighter touch. Always check labels on store-bought coatings for allergens, especially if you or someone in your family has food allergies.
What tips do you have for ensuring perfect cooking?
Great question! To ensure perfectly cooked chicken, cook in batches if needed so as not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. This allows for even air circulation. Always be sure your chicken pieces are similar in size for uniform cooking. An instant-read thermometer is invaluable here; check for an internal temperature of 165°F for safe and delicious results!
Crispy Shake and Bake Chicken in Air Fryer Ready in 25 Min
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F for about 5 minutes while you prep the chicken.
- In a freezer-sized bag, combine the bread crumbs, salt, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and pepper for a homemade mix. If using store-bought, add the Shake N Bake to the bag instead.
- Add the chicken cutlets one at a time into the bag. Seal and shake until well-coated. Transfer the coated cutlets onto a plate and discard any leftover coating.
- Place the coated chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray with olive oil and cook for 7-9 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches 165°F internally.
- Allow the chicken to rest for 3 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
