Chicken Spedini Recipe Air Fryer: 7 Amazing Tips to Savor

Name: Chicken Spedini Recipe Air Fryer: 7 Amazing Tips to Savor
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken fillet, cut into strips; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil spray

By:

Christina R. Jones

November 19, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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Let me introduce you to my go-to chicken spedini recipe made in the air fryer! This dish is not just quick and easy; it’s a weeknight lifesaver! With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a delightful meal that even the pickiest eaters will love. I remember those busy evenings when the kids were hungry after school, and I needed something delicious that didn’t take forever to prepare. This recipe saved the day more times than I can count! The chicken comes out crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, and it’s so much fun to serve it with a variety of dipping sauces. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a family favorite that you’ll keep coming back to!

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a delicious chicken spedini in the air fryer. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound chicken fillet – Cut into strips; this is the star of the dish, and you want fresh, juicy chicken for the best results.
1/2 cup breadcrumbs – These will create that perfect crispy coating. I prefer using plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a lovely savory depth to the coating. Freshly grated works best, but the packaged kind is fine in a pinch!
1 teaspoon garlic powder – For that aromatic kick! You can also use fresh minced garlic if you want to amp up the flavor.
1 teaspoon paprika – Gives a beautiful color and a subtle warmth. I love using smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor.
Salt and pepper to taste – These seasonings are essential for enhancing the overall flavor of the chicken.
Olive oil spray – A light coating ensures the chicken gets that nice golden brown finish without excess fat.

With these simple ingredients, you’re on your way to a delightful dinner! Make sure to have everything measured out and ready to go, and let’s get cooking!

How to Prepare the Chicken Spedini Recipe Air Fryer

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the magic of preparing this chicken spedini! I promise, it’s super straightforward, and I’ll guide you through each step to make it foolproof!

Preheat the Air Fryer

First things first, you’ve got to preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your chicken starts cooking immediately when it hits the basket, giving it that lovely crispy texture. Just set it to preheat while you prepare the coating and chicken – multitasking at its finest!

Prepare the Coating

In a medium bowl, combine your breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Use a fork to mix everything together until it’s well combined. I love to make sure the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the breadcrumbs – it really makes a difference when it comes to flavor! If you’re feeling adventurous, don’t hesitate to toss in some Italian seasoning or dried herbs for that extra oomph!

Coat the Chicken

Now, let’s get those chicken strips ready! Take each strip and dip it into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure to coat it evenly. I like to use one hand for the wet and one hand for the dry to keep things tidy – trust me, it saves you from a messy situation! Give each piece a good press into the breadcrumbs, ensuring every inch is covered. This will create a delightful crunch when they cook!

Air Fry the Chicken

Once all your chicken strips are coated, it’s time to place them in the air fryer basket. Make sure to lay them in a single layer, leaving a little space between each piece. This helps them cook evenly and get that golden-brown finish we’re after! Cook them for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure both sides get that perfect crisp. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden and cooked through – a quick check with a meat thermometer should read 165°F (74°C) internal temperature!

Serve and Enjoy

When your chicken spedini is ready, remove it from the air fryer and serve hot! These strips are fantastic on their own, but I highly recommend pairing them with your favorite dipping sauces, like marinara, ranch, or even a spicy aioli for a kick. Gather your family around the table and watch as they dig in – trust me, this dish is a crowd-pleaser!

Nutritional Information

Let’s take a quick look at what you’re getting with this delicious chicken spedini recipe made in the air fryer. Remember, these values are estimates based on typical ingredients, so they might vary a bit depending on what you use. Here’s what a serving (which I consider to be about one-fourth of the recipe) will provide:

Calories: 250
Protein: 25g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 300mg

This chicken spedini is not only packed with protein but also low in calories, making it a fantastic option for a satisfying meal without the guilt. Plus, with a good balance of flavors and textures, it’s a win-win for those busy weeknights!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious dinner on the table in about 22 minutes!
Easy Cleanup: The air fryer makes cooking a breeze, and cleanup is a snap since there are fewer dishes to wash.
Flavorful: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and paprika brings a burst of flavor to each bite, making it irresistible!
Low-Calorie: At just 250 calories per serving, it’s a guilt-free option that satisfies your cravings without weighing you down.
Perfect for Family Meals: This recipe is a hit with both kids and adults, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Tips for Success

Now that you’re all set to make this amazing chicken spedini recipe in the air fryer, let me share some of my favorite tips to ensure you achieve the best results. These little insights can make a big difference, trust me!

Don’t Skip Preheating

Preheating your air fryer is a crucial step! It ensures that the chicken starts cooking right away, helping it achieve that crispiness we all love. If you skip this step, you might end up with unevenly cooked chicken. So, while you’re prepping, let that air fryer heat up to 400°F (200°C)!

Choose the Right Chicken

Using fresh chicken fillet is key. If it’s been sitting in the fridge for a while, it might not cook evenly. Also, try to cut your chicken strips into uniform sizes – this way, they’ll cook at the same rate. No one wants a perfectly cooked piece next to a dry one!

Get Creative with Coating

Feel free to experiment with your breadcrumb coating! If you want to kick things up a notch, try adding some Italian herbs, crushed red pepper for heat, or even a bit of lemon zest for brightness. Just remember to keep the ratios balanced so the coating sticks well!

Don’t Overcrowd the Basket

It might be tempting to fit as many chicken strips as possible, but overcrowding the basket will lead to steaming instead of crisping. Cook in batches if necessary. This way, each piece gets the love it deserves and turns out perfectly crispy!

Check for Doneness

Always check your chicken for doneness using a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (74°C) inside. This ensures your chicken is not only safe to eat but also juicy and delicious. If you don’t have a thermometer, just make sure there’s no pink in the center!

Let Them Rest

Once you take the chicken out of the air fryer, let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping each bite tender and flavorful. Plus, it gives you a moment to catch your breath and get those dipping sauces ready!

Following these tips will help you create the most delightful chicken spedini that’s crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavor! Enjoy the cooking adventure and the delicious results!

Variations

One of the best things about this chicken spedini recipe in the air fryer is its versatility! You can easily switch things up to keep it exciting and cater to your family’s taste preferences. Here are some fun variations you can try:

Herb-Infused Coating

Want to add a fresh twist? Incorporate herbs into your breadcrumb mixture! Dried oregano, basil, or thyme can elevate the flavor profile immensely. Just a teaspoon or two will do the trick. You could even use fresh herbs if you have them on hand – just chop them finely and mix them right in!

Spicy Kick

If you love a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture. Start with a pinch and adjust to your heat preference. Trust me, that little kick can take your chicken spedini to a whole new level!

Cheesy Variations

Feeling cheesy? Swap out half of the breadcrumbs for crushed tortilla chips or panko for an extra crunch! You could also mix in different cheeses, like mozzarella or cheddar, into your coating for a melty surprise. Just remember that the flavor will change, so pick cheeses that complement the dish!

Veggie Add-Ins

How about sneaking in some veggies? Thinly slice zucchini, bell peppers, or even mushrooms, and thread them onto skewers alongside your chicken strips. Just be mindful of cooking times, as these veggies may cook faster than the chicken. You can also toss in some cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and flavor!

Switch Up the Protein

If you’re not in the mood for chicken, this recipe is also fantastic with shrimp or even firm tofu! Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly. Shrimp will cook quicker, while tofu might need a little extra time to get crispy.

Experimenting with these variations can open up a world of flavors and make this chicken spedini recipe in the air fryer a regular rotation in your meal planning. Get creative, have fun, and enjoy the delicious results!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

After enjoying your delicious chicken spedini, you might find yourself with some leftovers (if you’re lucky!). Storing them properly is key to keeping that crispy goodness intact for your next meal!

To store your leftovers, let the chicken strips cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. This step helps prevent moisture buildup, which can make your chicken soggy. You can also layer parchment paper between the strips to keep them from sticking together – a little trick I love!

Refrigerate your chicken spedini, and they’ll stay good for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them! Just pop the cooled strips in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Now, let’s talk reheating! The best method for bringing back that crispy texture is to use the air fryer again. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C), then place the chicken strips in a single layer in the basket. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping them halfway, until they’re warmed through and crispy again. It’s like they just came out of the fryer!

If you don’t have the air fryer handy, you can also reheat them in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the chicken on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, keeping an eye on them to ensure they don’t dry out.

Microwaving is the quickest option, but I’d only recommend it as a last resort since it tends to make the chicken a bit rubbery. If you do go this route, use a microwave-safe plate and cover the chicken with a damp paper towel to help retain some moisture. Heat in short intervals until warm.

Following these storage and reheating tips will ensure you can enjoy your chicken spedini leftovers just as much as the first time around. Happy munching!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
While fresh chicken is always best for this chicken spedini recipe in the air fryer, you can use frozen chicken fillet. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cutting it into strips and coating it. Cooking from frozen can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy results, so thawing is key!

Q2: What dipping sauces pair well with chicken spedini?
Oh, the dipping sauce possibilities are endless! My favorites include classic marinara, creamy ranch, or zesty barbecue sauce. You could even whip up a quick garlic aioli or a spicy sriracha mayo for a fun twist. Feel free to get creative with what you love!

Q3: Can I make chicken spedini ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the chicken strips and coat them with the breadcrumb mixture a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld together beautifully!

Q4: How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Your chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have one, cut into a piece and ensure there’s no pink inside – the juices should run clear!

Q5: Can I use other proteins besides chicken?
Definitely! This recipe is fantastic with shrimp or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly, as shrimp will cook faster while tofu may take a bit longer to get crispy.