Air Fryer Cheesy Ranch Chicken is juicy, flavorful, and coated with a crispy, cheesy ranch crust. This easy recipe serves 4.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 packet (1 oz/28 g) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Cooking spray
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- Pat the chicken dry and brush each piece with olive oil.
- In a shallow bowl, combine the ranch seasoning, Parmesan, cheddar, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper.
- Press each piece of chicken firmly into the coating mixture, making sure all sides are evenly coated.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and arrange the chicken in a single layer, leaving space between each piece.
- Air fry for 10 minutes, then carefully flip the chicken.
- Continue cooking for 8–12 minutes, or until the coating is golden brown and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Roasted vegetables
- Mashed potatoes
- Potato wedges
- Rice or buttered noodles
- A crisp garden salad
Tips
- For extra crunch, lightly spray the coated chicken with cooking spray before air frying.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary for the crispiest results.