Enjoy the crispy and juicy air fryer ranch chicken, a quick and easy recipe that will revolutionize your weeknight dinners! This dish features tender chicken breasts coated in a Parmesan cheese and ranch seasoning mix, then quickly air-fried for a healthier twist on classic fried chicken. Perfect for anyone who wants the satisfying crunch of fried chicken without the guilt!
A few weeks ago, I was looking for new ways to make air-fried chicken breasts because my family has been eating a lot of chicken lately. I love bold flavors and crispy textures, so I was intrigued by the idea of combining ranch seasoning with Parmesan cheese.
The chicken has an incredible crispy exterior with a juicy, flavorful interior, all achieved with no added oil. Plus, using boneless, skinless chicken breasts gives you a lean protein option that still packs a punch in terms of taste and texture.
But what really makes this recipe special is how easy it is to make. With only a handful of simple ingredients and a few minutes of prep time, you can have a satisfying, protein-packed meal on the table in 20 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty and wholesome but want it fast.
In this post, I’ll walk you through the simple steps for making your own air fryer ranch chicken. I’ll also share some expert tips and serving ideas to take this dish to the next level and answer readers’ questions.
Looking for more easy air fryer chicken recipes? Try air fryer peri peri chicken, air fryer chicken tenders without breading, or air fryer lollipop chicken.
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🥘Ingredient Notes
For exact amounts needed see the recipe card below
- Boneless chicken breast: I like to use chicken breast because it’s lean, protein-packed, and cooks quickly in the air fryer. Chicken tenders work great, too.
- Panko breadcrumbs: Panko is a type of Japanese breadcrumb that is lighter and crispier than traditional breadcrumbs, which helps create that perfect crunchy exterior. If you don’t have panko, use regular unseasoned breadcrumbs.
- Parmesan cheese
- Ranch seasoning mix
- Egg
🥣How to Make Air Fryer Ranch Chicken
- First, pat your chicken breasts dry with some paper towels. Then, slice each chicken breast in half lengthwise to have thinner pieces that cook more evenly in the air fryer.
- Combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, and ranch seasoning mix on a large plate. Stir to combine. Crack the egg in a small bowl and whisk it to break it up.
- Now it’s time to bread the chicken! Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture. Then, transfer it to the breading plate and press the mixture onto the chicken so it sticks. Place the breaded chicken pieces into your air fryer basket, making sure they’re not touching.
- Set your air fryer to 380 degrees F and cook the chicken for 10-12 minutes. It’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (use a meat thermometer to check!). If you like your chicken extra crispy, you can add a minute or two to the cooking time.
🍴Serving Ideas
It is time to enjoy the crispy, flavorful air fryer ranch chicken! My kids always go crazy for it, and I like knowing it’s a healthier alternative to deep-fried chicken.
I love serving this with a side salad or roasted veggies for a quick, easy weeknight meal. For a classic comfort food meal, pair the chicken with some creamy mashed potatoes and a side of steamed green beans or roasted broccoli.
If you’re in the mood for something a little lighter, slice up the chicken and serve it over a big leafy green salad with all your favorite toppings—the ranch flavor pairs perfectly with a tangy vinaigrette dressing.
You can also use the chicken to make a killer sandwich. Add it to a soft bun with some lettuce, tomato, and a slice of sharp cheddar cheese. Spread a little extra ranch dressing on the bun for even more flavor.
You can also make this recipe with chicken tenders and make it an appetizer! Serve them with a side of ranch dressing or honey mustard dipping sauce. They’re perfect for game day snacks or a casual party with friends.
💭How to Store
Any leftover chicken pieces should be placed in an airtight container or zip-top bag. The chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
When you’re ready to reheat, pop it back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes until it’s heated through and crispy again. The leftovers are also delicious served cold.
If you want to freeze the chicken for later, you can do that too! Place the chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Then, transfer the frozen chicken to a freezer-safe bag or container and store it for 2-3 months.
To reheat frozen chicken, place it in the air fryer at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until it’s heated through and crispy.
⭐Tips
Be sure to check out the step by step instructions
- Make sure to leave some space between each piece of chicken in the air fryer basket. This allows the hot air to circulate properly and ensures that the breading gets nice and crispy on all sides. You may need to work in batches if you have a smaller air fryer.
- While the ranch seasoning mix in this recipe is delicious, don’t be afraid to switch things up and try different flavors! You could use Italian seasoning, cajun spice blend, or even just some simple garlic powder and paprika.
- Make sure that your chicken is cooked through! Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F in the thickest part of the chicken.
📝Reader Questions
Chicken thighs will work just as well in this recipe. They may take a bit longer to cook through, so use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Pat the chicken dry before dipping it in the egg mixture. You can also try letting the breaded chicken sit for a few minutes before placing it in the air fryer basket to help the breading stick better.
While this recipe is best enjoyed fresh out of the air fryer, you can bread the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a few hours before cooking.
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Air Fryer Ranch Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless chicken breast
- ½ cup panko
- ½ cup grated parmesan
- 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
- 1 egg
Instructions
- Pat the chicken dry. Slice each chicken breasts in half lengthwise.1 pound boneless chicken breast
- Combine the panko, parmesan, and ranch seasoning in a small bowl. Break the egg into the other bowl and mix to break it up.½ cup panko, ½ cup grated parmesan, 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix, 1 egg
- Dip each piece of chicken in the egg and then the breading. Then, put it in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry at 380 degrees F for 10-12 minutes until the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
Notes
- Make sure to leave some space between each piece of chicken in the air fryer basket. You may need to work in batches if you have a smaller air fryer.
- This recipe also works with chicken thighs.
- If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs use regular unseasoned bread crumbs.
- Make sure that your chicken is cooked through! Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F in the thickest part of the chicken.
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Nutrition Information
Nutrition facts are estimates.
This is a great recipe. I switched it up with season I had at home.
Easy to prep and quick.