Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Fries

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These chicken fries are made with real chicken and simple pantry ingredients, so you know exactly what’s in them. The air fryer creates a crispy coating without excess oil, making them a lighter yet satisfying option. They’re quick to prepare, freezer-friendly, and pair perfectly with your favorite dipping sauces.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• All-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour if needed)
• Eggs
• Panko bread crumbs
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper
• Cooking spray or light oil

Directions

1. Slice chicken into thin, fry-like strips.
2. Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge each chicken strip in flour, dip in egg, then coat with breadcrumb mixture.
4. Arrange chicken fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray lightly with cooking spray.
5. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 12 minutes
Total time: 27 minutes

Variations

• Use crushed cornflakes or pretzels instead of panko for a different crunch.
• Add Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
• Make them spicy by adding cayenne pepper or chili powder.
• Swap chicken for turkey for a fun twist.
• Use almond flour and crushed pork rinds for a keto-friendly version.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5–6 minutes to restore crispiness. These chicken fries can also be frozen after breading or after cooking. To reheat from frozen, air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes.

FAQs

Can I bake these instead of air frying?

Yes, bake at 425°F (220°C) for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.

Can I freeze chicken fries before cooking?

Yes, freeze them after breading, then air fry straight from frozen.

What sauces go best with chicken fries?

Ketchup, honey mustard, barbecue, or ranch are all great choices.

How do I make them extra crispy?

Use panko breadcrumbs and spray lightly with oil before air frying.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, thighs will be juicier and just as tasty.

How do I prevent the breading from falling off?

Pat chicken dry before breading and press crumbs firmly onto each strip.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes, just skip any cheese add-ins and use a dairy-free dipping sauce.

Are these healthier than fast-food chicken fries?

Yes, since they’re air fried and made with whole ingredients.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just cook in batches so the air fryer basket isn’t overcrowded.

Conclusion

Air fryer crispy chicken fries are a fun, healthier twist on a fast-food favorite. With their crunchy coating and tender chicken inside, they’re perfect for dipping and sharing. Whether you serve them as a snack, appetizer, or main meal, these homemade chicken fries are sure to become a family favorite.

Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Fries

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Air fryer crispy chicken fries are a healthier take on a fast-food favorite—crispy, golden strips of chicken shaped like fries and cooked to perfection in the air fryer. They’re tender inside, crunchy outside, and perfect for dipping.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Snack, Main Dish
• Method: Air Fryer
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

1. 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
2. 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
3. 2 large eggs, beaten
4. 1.5 cups panko bread crumbs
5. 1 teaspoon garlic powder
6. 1 teaspoon onion powder
7. 1 teaspoon paprika
8. 1 teaspoon salt
9. 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
10. Cooking spray or light oil

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Instructions

Slice chicken into thin, fry-shaped strips.

1. Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Pat chicken strips dry. Dredge each piece in flour, dip in egg, and coat thoroughly in seasoned breadcrumbs.
3. Place chicken fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray lightly with cooking spray.
4. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.
5. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.

Notes

• Use crushed cornflakes or pretzels instead of panko for different texture.
• Add Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
• Spice it up with cayenne pepper or chili powder.
• Use almond flour and pork rinds for a keto-friendly version.
• Freeze before or after cooking for easy future meals.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 135mg