Cooking chicken schnitzel in an air fryer is a quick and convenient way to achieve crispy, golden-brown cutlets without the need for excessive oil. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to create delicious chicken schnitzels that are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering. Plus, we’ll address some common questions about cooking schnitzels in an air fryer.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 750g (1.7 lb) chicken breasts, butterflied
- 100g (3.5 oz) plain flour
- 1 tsp onion powder
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 200°C (390°F). It should take approximately 5 minutes to reach the desired temperature.
- Prepare the Chicken: Butterfly the chicken breasts to create thin cutlets. Season them with salt and pepper.
- Coat with Flour: Dredge each chicken cutlet in plain flour, ensuring an even coating.
- Prepare the Crumb Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix the following:
- Panko breadcrumbs (or any other breadcrumb of your choice)
- Seasonings (such as paprika or cumin, if desired)
- Shaved Parmesan or other flavorful cheeses (optional but delicious)
Cooking the Schnitzels
- Layer the Chicken: Place the coated chicken cutlets in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer.
- Lightly Spray with Oil: Lightly spray the schnitzels with your favorite cooking oil. This step ensures a crispy crumb.
- Cook Time: Cook the chicken schnitzels for 10 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
- Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken should reach at least 75°C (170°F).
Serving Ideas
- Chicken Parmesan: Transform your schnitzels into chicken parmesan by adding a homemade parmigiana sauce and topping it with a mixture of parmesan and mozzarella.
- Side Dishes: Pair your schnitzels with:
- Potato Fries: Cook them in a separate air fryer for the best results.
- Sweet Potato Fries: A healthier alternative.
- Salads: Choose from various salads, such as homemade potato salad or a simple green salad.
- Mac ‘n’ Cheese: A comforting side dish.
- Cauliflower Cheese: Easy and cheesy.
You may also like: How Long to Smoke Chicken Breast?
FAQs on How to Cook Chicken Schnitzel in an Air Fryer
Can I use frozen chicken schnitzels in an air fryer?
Yes, you can cook frozen chicken schnitzels in an air fryer. Simply adjust the cooking time and temperature according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
How long does it take to cook chicken schnitzel in an air fryer?
The cooking time for chicken schnitzel in an air fryer typically ranges from 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the cutlets. It is recommended to flip the schnitzels halfway through the cooking process for even browning.
Can I use breadcrumbs instead of panko for the coating?
Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko for the chicken schnitzel coating. However, panko breadcrumbs tend to yield a crispier texture.
Can I prepare the chicken schnitzels in advance and cook them later in the air fryer?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken schnitzels ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to cook. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before placing them in the air fryer.
What is the ideal internal temperature for cooked chicken schnitzel?
The internal temperature of cooked chicken schnitzel should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Can I use oil spray on the chicken schnitzels before air frying?
Yes, you can lightly spray the chicken schnitzels with oil before air frying to enhance browning and crispiness. However, it is important to use oil sparingly to avoid excessive smoke or a greasy outcome.
Can I cook other meats or vegetables in the air fryer alongside the chicken schnitzels?
Yes, you can cook other meats or vegetables in the air fryer alongside the chicken schnitzels, as long as they require similar cooking times and temperatures.
Can I reheat leftover chicken schnitzels in the air fryer?
Yes, you can reheat leftover chicken schnitzels in the air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook the schnitzels for 3 to 5 minutes or until heated through.
How should I store leftover cooked chicken schnitzels?
Store leftover cooked chicken schnitzels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispiness, reheat them in the air fryer before consuming.
Can I freeze uncooked chicken schnitzels for future use?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked chicken schnitzels. Place them in a freezer bag or container, separating each cutlet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Thaw them in the refrigerator before cooking in the air fryer.
What side dishes pair well with chicken schnitzel?
Chicken schnitzel pairs well with various side dishes such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad.
Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead of chicken cutlets for schnitzel?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts instead of chicken cutlets for schnitzel. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before breading and cooking them in the air fryer.
Are there any alternative coatings for chicken schnitzel?
Yes, you can experiment with different coatings for chicken schnitzel, such as crushed cornflakes, crushed crackers, or a mixture of grated Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.
Is it necessary to preheat the air fryer before cooking chicken schnitzel?
It is generally recommended to preheat the air fryer before cooking chicken schnitzel as it helps to ensure even cooking and browning of the cutlets. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for preheating.
Can I cook chicken schnitzel in a traditional oven instead of an air fryer?
Yes, you can cook chicken schnitzel in a traditional oven by baking it at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 20 to 25 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time.
Can I use a different type of meat for schnitzel, like pork or veal?
Yes, you can use different types of meat, such as pork or veal, to make schnitzel. The cooking time and temperature may vary slightly depending on the meat used, so adjust accordingly.
Can I make gluten-free chicken schnitzel in an air fryer?
Yes, you can make gluten-free chicken schnitzel in an air fryer by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for the coating. Ensure that all ingredients used are certified gluten-free.
Can I marinate the chicken schnitzels before air frying?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken schnitzels before air frying to add flavor. However, make sure to pat them dry before breading to ensure a crispy coating.
Can I use an air fryer for cooking frozen pre-breaded chicken schnitzels?
Yes, you can use an air fryer to cook frozen pre-breaded chicken schnitzels. Simply follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cooking frozen foods in the air fryer.
