30-Minute Gluten-Free Air Fryer Chicken

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Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and naturally gluten-free—this 30-Minute Air Fryer Chicken is about to become your new weeknight hero. It takes just half an hour to go from fridge to table, and you won’t need a drop of oil to get that perfect golden crunch.

Whether you’re cooking for family or prepping quick lunches, this recipe is simple, satisfying, and fuss-free. Thanks to a coating of crushed gluten-free cornflakes and a few pantry spices, the result is a flavorful breading that crisps up beautifully in the air fryer without needing flour.

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What Makes This Gluten-Free Chicken So Crispy?

The secret is crushed gluten-free cornflakes. Unlike traditional flour or panko, cornflakes bring an irresistible crunch and golden color, even without oil. The natural texture of the flakes locks in moisture while crisping up the exterior—making them a perfect swap for breadcrumbs in gluten-free recipes.

Another bonus? They toast up beautifully in the air fryer, giving you that deep-fried texture without the mess or calories.

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Ingredients for the 30-Minute Gluten-Free Air Fryer Chicken

Chicken Breasts – Boneless and skinless, these are the perfect protein base. Slice them evenly for consistent cooking.

Gluten-Free Cornflakes – These act as the main breading. Crush them finely, but keep a little texture for the best crunch.

Eggs – Beaten eggs help the cornflake crumbs stick to the chicken and add a light coating for extra crispiness.

Garlic Powder & Onion Powder – These spices add depth and flavor without overpowering the natural taste of the chicken.

Paprika – Smoked or sweet paprika adds color and a warm flavor that enhances the crunchy coating.

Salt & Pepper – Essential seasoning for any savory recipe.

Cooking Spray (Gluten-Free) – A quick mist ensures even crisping and prevents sticking in the air fryer.

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How To Make the 30-Minute Gluten-Free Air Fryer Chicken

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Pat your chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and slice them into evenly sized cutlets. This helps them cook faster and more uniformly in the air fryer.

Step 2: Crush the Cornflakes

Place your gluten-free cornflakes in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin or pulse them in a food processor. You want fine crumbs with a little texture for crunch.

Step 3: Set Up a Breading Station

In one bowl, whisk the eggs. In another, mix the crushed cornflakes with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken

Dip each chicken piece into the egg wash, letting the excess drip off, then press it into the seasoned cornflake mixture. Press gently to coat evenly.

Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection

Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Place the chicken pieces in a single layer in the basket and lightly mist them with gluten-free cooking spray. Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Let It Rest

Let the cooked chicken rest for 2–3 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute for the juiciest bite.

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How to Serve and Store This Chicken

Serve your gluten-free air fryer chicken fresh and hot alongside a crisp green salad, sweet potato fries, or on top of gluten-free waffles for a playful take on chicken and waffles. It’s also perfect for slicing over meal-prep salads or wrapping in a gluten-free tortilla with slaw and sauce.

To store, let the chicken cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To reheat, pop it back in the air fryer for 3–5 minutes at 350°F to bring back the crisp.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of gluten-free cornflakes should I use?

Look for unsweetened gluten-free cornflakes to avoid any added sugar or odd flavors. Popular options include Nature’s Path or Erewhon.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great—just add 1–2 extra minutes to the cooking time.

How do I keep the breading from falling off?

Make sure to press the coating firmly onto the chicken and avoid overcrowding in the air fryer basket.

Can I make this dairy-free too?

Absolutely. Just make sure your cooking spray and cornflakes are certified dairy-free.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer?

Yes, preheating helps the chicken start crisping immediately and ensures even cooking.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes. Freeze cooked and cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat straight from frozen in the air fryer at 375°F for about 8–10 minutes.

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Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If this crunchy gluten-free chicken hit the spot, you’ll love these other satisfying mains:

• Try this rich and comforting Texas Roadhouse Butter Chicken Skillet for a hearty Southern-style meal.
• Craving something saucy? The Sweet Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot is a family favorite.
• For a creamy twist, don’t miss the Grilled Chicken Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce.
• Or go bold with the saucy, tender Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo.
• And keep it cozy with a batch of Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites & Potatoes.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so it’s ready for your next weeknight dinner idea.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you add your own seasoning twist or try a different gluten-free coating?

I love seeing your spins on my recipes—and if you’re looking for more tasty inspiration, follow along on my Pinterest: Life with Jam for daily recipes shared from my kitchen to yours.

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