Breaded chicken is usually either greasy or dry. This oatmeal crusted chicken air fryer hits the sweet spot: crispy outside, juicy inside, and much lighter than classic breading.
The oats create a crunchy coating without flour or breadcrumbs, and the air fryer does the rest. It’s simple, reliable, and works for quick dinners or meal prep.
The key detail is at STEP 2. That’s where the crust actually sticks and crisps instead of falling off.
Total time: 22 min
Prep time:
10 min
Cooking time:
12 min
Oatmeal Crusted Chicken Air Fryer Recipe
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Utensils
- 1 air fryer
- 1 shallow bowl
- 1 fork or tongs
- 1 plate
Ingredients (1 serving)
- 1 chicken breast (about 150 g)
- 30 g rolled oats, finely crushed
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: paprika or garlic powder
Preparation
STEP 1
Crush the rolled oats into a coarse flour using a blender or by pressing them firmly in a bowl.
STEP 2
Beat the egg in a shallow bowl. Dip the chicken breast fully into the egg (add an egg if necessary, depending on the amount of chicken).
👉 This step is crucial: a complete egg coating helps the oats stick and crisp evenly.
STEP 3
Press the chicken into the crushed oats until fully coated on all sides.
STEP 4
Place the chicken in the air fryer basket. Cook at 190°C / 375°F for 12 minutes, turning halfway.
STEP 5
Check that the crust is golden and the chicken is cooked through. Serve hot.
Why this works:
Finely crushed oats create a crisp coating without flour. The egg acts as a natural binder, helping the oats adhere evenly while staying light.
FEATURED TOOL
I recommend an air fryer with a basket that allows air to circulate evenly around the chicken. This is essential to get a crispy oatmeal crust without using oil or deep frying.
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2. Recipe Variations
- Extra crispy: crush oats very finely
- Spicy: add chili powder to the oats
- Gluten-free: use certified gluten-free oats
- Weight loss: reduce oats slightly and serve with vegetablest: reduce oats to 20 g and add more broth
3. My Ultimate Tips
For extra crunch, lightly spray the chicken with oil after coating, not before. This helps the oats crisp without soaking them.
4. Why you’ll love this dish ❤️
- Crispy without deep frying
- High in protein
- Lighter than breaded chicken
- Simple everyday ingredients
- Perfect for quick dinners
5. FAQ 🧐
🤔 1. Can I make oatmeal crusted chicken without an air fryer?
Yes, but the air fryer gives the crispiest result with minimal oil.
🤔 2. Does oatmeal get crispy in an air fryer?
Yes, when crushed finely and cooked at the right temperature.
🤔 3. Is this healthier than breaded chicken?
Yes. Oats replace refined breadcrumbs and reduce oil use.
Do you enjoy this oatmeal crusted chicken air fryer recipe? Let me know what you think in the comments!
Passionate about healthy recipes and natural oat-based care.
I share simple, practical content to support a healthy body, balanced nutrition, and low-sugar habits.
