High Protein Crispy Air Fryer Chicken

Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this High Protein Crispy Air Fryer Chicken, a healthier spin on classic fried chicken that's as flavorful as it is guilt-free. Tender, marinated chicken breasts are coated in a deliciously seasoned panko-Parmesan crust, then air-fried to golden, crispy perfection—no deep frying or excess oil needed! The yogurt-lemon marinade keeps the chicken exceptionally juicy while infusing it with a subtle tang, and the air fryer guarantees a perfectly crispy exterior every time. Ready in just 45 minutes, this high-protein recipe is perfect for meal prep, quick family dinners, or post-workout fuel. Serve it alongside roasted veggies, a vibrant salad, or your favorite dipping sauce for a complete, satisfying meal. Healthy, easy, and irresistibly crunchy—this is comfort food reimagined!

Nutriscore Rating: 61/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
• 2 pieces egg whites
• 1 as needed non-stick cooking spray

Directions

Step 1

Start by flattening the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch using a meat mallet or rolling pin, which will ensure even cooking.

Step 2

In a medium bowl, combine plain Greek yogurt and lemon juice. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and ensure they are fully coated. Cover and set aside to marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 1 hour, in the refrigerator.

Step 3

In a shallow dish, mix together garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, panko breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.

Step 4

In another bowl, whisk the egg whites until slightly frothy.

Step 5

Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).

Step 6

Remove the chicken breasts from the yogurt marinade and allow any excess to drip off. Dip each breast into the egg whites, then press into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring a complete coating.

Step 7

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray and place the chicken breasts in the basket, being careful not to overcrowd.

Step 8

Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 10 minutes, then flip the chicken over. Continue cooking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the chicken achieves an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden and crispy.

Step 9

Once done, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Step 10

Serve the crispy air fryer chicken with your choice of sides, such as a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(898.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1618.2

Total Fat 53.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 28.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.2g
Cholesterol 415.5mg	0%
Sodium 5134.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 80.7g	0%
Dietary Fiber 4.5g	0%
Total Sugars 15.6g
Protein 196.6g	0%

Vitamin D 3.5IU	0%
Calcium 1687.1mg	0%
Iron 7.5mg	0%
Potassium 1609.3mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 30.4%

Protein: 49.3%

Carbs: 20.2%