Name: Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Caesar Cutlets – A Quick & Flavorful Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large chicken breasts, thinly sliced; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 2 large eggs; 2 tablespoons Caesar dressing; Salt and pepper, to taste; Olive oil spray; Lemon wedges, for serving

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If you love a good Caesar salad, wait until you try these Air Fryer Chicken Caesar Cutlets! Juicy chicken breasts coated in a crispy, Parmesan-packed crust, air-fried to perfection, and finished with a drizzle of Caesar dressing—it’s a simple yet flavor-packed meal that comes together in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you’re craving something crispy without all the oil.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy without deep frying – The air fryer gives you that perfect crunch with minimal oil.
Caesar-inspired flavors – Parmesan, garlic, and a touch of tangy dressing make every bite irresistible.
Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with just a few simple steps.
Great for meal prep – These cutlets reheat beautifully for lunches and dinners.

Ingredients

(Full list of ingredients below!)

Chicken breasts, thinly sliced
Panko breadcrumbs
Grated Parmesan cheese
Garlic powder
Lemon zest
Eggs
Caesar dressing
Olive oil spray

Directions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Slice the chicken breasts into thin cutlets for even cooking. Pat them dry with a paper towel to help the coating stick.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

In one bowl, whisk the eggs with a bit of Caesar dressing for extra flavor. In another, mix the panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Dip each cutlet into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off, then press it into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.

Step 4: Air Fry the Cutlets

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the basket with olive oil, then place the chicken in a single layer. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Serve with Caesar Goodness

Drizzle with extra Caesar dressing, top with fresh Parmesan, and serve with lemon wedges.

Expert Tips and Tricks

Don’t overcrowd the air fryer – Work in batches for even cooking.
Use freshly grated Parmesan – It melts better and adds richer flavor.
Let the breading set – Refrigerate the breaded cutlets for 10 minutes before air frying for extra crispiness.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Make it spicy – Add a dash of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the breading.
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs – For a gluten-free version.
Try different dressings – Ranch or honey mustard work well too.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Over a Caesar salad – The ultimate protein boost!
In a sandwich – Serve on a toasted bun with lettuce and extra dressing.
With roasted veggies – A great low-carb side option.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze uncooked breaded cutlets for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Air fry at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to crisp them back up.

FAQs

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
Yes, but panko gives a crispier texture.
How do I make this without an air fryer?
Bake at 400°F for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway, or pan-fry in a bit of oil.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Just adjust cooking time slightly, as thighs take longer.
What’s the best Caesar dressing to use?
Homemade or a high-quality store-bought one with real Parmesan and anchovies works best.

Conclusion

These Air Fryer Chicken Caesar Cutlets are crispy, juicy, and full of bold Caesar flavor. Whether you serve them over salad, in a sandwich, or with veggies, they’re sure to be a hit. Quick, easy, and packed with flavor—this is one recipe you’ll keep coming back to!

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Caesar Cutlets – A Quick & Flavorful Dinner

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If you love a good Caesar salad, wait until you try these Air Fryer Chicken Caesar Cutlets! Juicy chicken breasts coated in a crispy, Parmesan-packed crust, air-fried to perfection, and finished with a drizzle of Caesar dressing. This simple yet flavor-packed meal comes together in no time and is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you’re craving something crispy without all the oil.

Author: Touria Elkoudssi
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Instructions

Prep the Chicken
Slice the chicken breasts into thin cutlets for even cooking. Pat them dry with a paper towel to help the coating stick.
Set Up the Breading Station
In one bowl, whisk the eggs with Caesar dressing for extra flavor. In another, mix the panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
Coat the Chicken
Dip each cutlet into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off, then press it into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
Air Fry the Cutlets
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the basket with olive oil, then place the chicken in a single layer. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
Serve with Caesar Goodness
Drizzle with extra Caesar dressing, top with fresh Parmesan, and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

Don’t overcrowd the air fryer – Work in batches for even cooking.
Use freshly grated Parmesan – It melts better and adds richer flavor.
Let the breading set – Refrigerate the breaded cutlets for 10 minutes before air frying for extra crispiness.