Air Fryer Chicken Sandwich
Introduction
A classic chicken sandwich is a go-to comfort food. This air fryer version delivers crispy, golden breaded chicken with tender juicy meat inside—without deep frying. Paired with fresh buns and simple toppings, it’s a perfect homemade sandwich ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients (Serves 2)
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to even thickness or split in half horizontally)
1/2 cup buttermilk (or plain yogurt mixed with a splash of milk)
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
1 large egg
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Cooking spray or oil spray
2 sandwich buns (brioche or potato buns work great)
Lettuce, tomato slices, pickles, mayo, or your favorite sandwich toppings
Equipment
Air fryer
Three shallow bowls or plates for dredging
Timing and Instructions
Marinate Chicken (5 minutes + optional 15–30 minutes rest)
In a bowl, soak chicken breasts in buttermilk for at least 5 minutes (or up to 30 minutes for more tender chicken).
Prep Breading Station (5 minutes)
Bowl 1: Flour mixed with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne.
Bowl 2: Beat the egg.
Bowl 3: Panko breadcrumbs.
Bread the Chicken (5 minutes)
Remove chicken from buttermilk, dredge in flour mixture.
Dip in egg wash.
Coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs.
Preheat Air Fryer (3 minutes)
Preheat to 400°F (200°C).
Air Fry Chicken (15 minutes)
Spray chicken with oil spray on both sides.
Place in air fryer basket (do not overcrowd).
Cook at 400°F for 15 minutes, flipping halfway (around 7 minutes in).
Check for internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Toast Buns (Optional, 2 minutes)
Lightly toast buns in air fryer or toaster while chicken finishes cooking.
Assembly
Spread mayo or preferred sauce on buns.
Layer lettuce, tomato, and pickles.
Add crispy chicken breast.
Top with bun crown.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad.
Add cheese slices or spicy mayo for extra flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover chicken in the fridge up to 3 days.
Reheat in air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes to keep crispiness.