Air Fryer Chicken Thigh Schnitzel Recipe – Crispy, Healthy

The Air Fryer Chicken Thigh Schnitzel Recipe is a quick and healthy twist on the traditional schnitzel. Instead of deep frying, the chicken thighs are coated in breadcrumbs and air-fried, creating a crispy, golden crust with less oil. Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices. Then, dip them in flour, followed by a beaten egg, and finally coat them in seasoned breadcrumbs for a crunchy exterior. Preheat your air fryer to around 375°F (190°C) and cook the thighs for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness. The result is a tender, juicy chicken thigh inside with a satisfying crunch on the outside. This Air Fryer Chicken Thigh Schnitzel Recipe is perfect for a healthier meal without sacrificing flavor. Serve with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh salad for a complete, delicious dinner the whole family will enjoy.

Air Fryer Chicken Thigh Schnitzel Recipe – Crispy, Healthy & Delicious

Chicken schnitzel is a beloved dish worldwide, especially in German and Austrian cuisines. Traditionally, it is made by breading and frying thin pieces of meat, often chicken or pork, in hot oil until they are golden and crispy. However, in an effort to make this dish healthier without sacrificing taste and texture, the air fryer has become a game-changer. The Air Fryer Chicken Thigh Schnitzel recipe combines the same crispy crunch with significantly less oil, making it a healthier alternative to the deep-fried version. The rich flavors of the chicken are enhanced with a crispy, golden crust, all while keeping the chicken juicy and tender inside.

This air fryer version of schnitzel is perfect for those who want to enjoy the traditional flavors of this dish without the added calories of deep frying. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal, this recipe is easy to prepare and results in a delicious, crispy chicken thigh schnitzel every time.

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Nutrition Information (per serving):

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 29g
• Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.

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Prep Time: 15 minutes

Active Time: 20 minutes

Resting Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

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Cuisine: German, Austrian, Modern Comfort Food

Course: Main Course

Servings: 4 servings

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Equipment Needed:

• Air fryer
• Shallow bowls (for breading)
• Meat mallet or rolling pin (optional, for tenderizing)
• Tongs or spatula
• Plate for resting cooked schnitzels
• Cooking spray or oil spray

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Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in chicken thighs (skinless, boneless thighs can also be used)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or cooking spray)
• Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken Thighs:
   • Begin by trimming any excess fat from the chicken thighs. You can also remove the bone if you’re using bone-in chicken. For an even thickness, use a meat mallet to gently pound the chicken to about ½-inch thickness. This step helps the chicken cook evenly and results in a tender schnitzel.
2. Set up the Breading Station:
   • In a shallow bowl, place the flour and season it with a pinch of salt and pepper. In another shallow bowl, crack the eggs and beat them lightly. In a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Bread the Chicken:
   • Start by dredging each chicken thigh in the flour, ensuring it is fully coated. Shake off any excess flour. Next, dip the chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess egg to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken with the seasoned breadcrumbs, pressing gently to help the breadcrumbs stick.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
   • Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the schnitzels cook evenly and develop that golden, crispy crust.
5. Air Fry the Chicken Thigh Schnitzels:
   • Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray or brush with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the breaded chicken thighs in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Be sure not to overcrowd the basket, as this can prevent the schnitzels from becoming crispy.
   • Air fry the schnitzels at 380°F (193°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through cooking. The chicken should be golden brown and crispy on the outside, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
6. Rest the Schnitzels:
   • Once the schnitzels are done, transfer them to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes. This resting time helps the juices redistribute inside the chicken, keeping it moist and tender.
7. Serve:
   • Serve your Air Fryer Chicken Thigh Schnitzels with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness. Pair with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

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Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Thigh Schnitzel:

• Bread the Chicken Evenly: Be sure to coat the chicken thoroughly in each step – flour, egg, and breadcrumbs. This helps ensure a crispy coating.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Give each piece of schnitzel enough space in the air fryer basket to allow for proper air circulation, which helps create that crispy exterior.
• Use Panko Breadcrumbs: For an extra crispy and light crust, panko breadcrumbs are your best choice. They crisp up beautifully in the air fryer.
• Add Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasonings in the breadcrumbs according to your preference. Adding herbs like parsley or thyme can elevate the flavor.
• Make It Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.

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Why Use an Air Fryer for Schnitzel?

Traditional schnitzel requires frying in oil, which can lead to excess fat and calories. Using an air fryer allows you to achieve the same crispy texture without submerging the chicken in oil, making the dish much healthier. The air fryer works by circulating hot air around the food, which results in a golden, crispy coating similar to deep-frying but with significantly less oil. This makes the schnitzel not only lighter but also less greasy.

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Final Thoughts:

This Air Fryer Chicken Thigh Schnitzel recipe is a healthier take on a classic comfort food dish, perfect for anyone craving a crispy, satisfying meal without the guilt of deep frying. It’s quick, easy to make, and delivers that irresistible crunch with every bite. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a casual get-together, this dish is sure to impress. The air fryer brings out the best in the chicken, creating a tender inside and a crisp, golden crust that’s absolutely irresistible.

Enjoy this air fryer schnitzel with a squeeze of lemon and a side of your favorite vegetables, and you’ve got a perfect meal that everyone will love!