15 Minute Air Fryer Chicken Goujons

Craving perfectly crispy chicken goujons without the guilt? These air fryer chicken goujons deliver restaurant-quality results in just 15 minutes! Golden, tender, and incredibly flavorful, they’re the ultimate crowd-pleaser.

Much like our popular air fryer chicken wings, these goujons prove that healthy cooking doesn’t mean sacrificing taste. Get ready to fall in love with this simple, family-friendly recipe!

What Are Air Fryer Chicken Goujons?

Ever wondered why these delicious strips are called “goujons”? The name comes from the French word for gudgeon, a small fish that’s traditionally prepared in strips. Who knew your favorite chicken finger had such fancy origins? As they say, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and these crispy delights certainly pave that path! Ready to create some kitchen magic?

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Chicken Goujons Recipe

Incredibly Crispy Without Deep Frying

These air fryer chicken goujons achieve that perfect golden crunch using minimal oil. The hot air circulation creates an irresistibly crispy coating while keeping the chicken tender and juicy inside.

Budget-Friendly Family Meal

Making chicken goujons at home saves you significant money compared to restaurant or takeaway versions. You control the quality of ingredients while feeding the whole family for a fraction of the cost.

Customizable Seasoning Options

The beauty lies in the versatility! From classic herbs to spicy cajun blends, you can adapt the coating to suit everyone’s taste preferences. Similar to our air fryer chicken thighs recipe, the possibilities are endless.

Ready to transform simple chicken into something spectacular? Let’s dive into this foolproof recipe!

How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Goujons

Quick Overview

This recipe combines simplicity with incredible flavor results. The secret lies in the three-step coating process that creates maximum crispiness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes Serves: 4 people

Key Ingredients for Air Fryer Chicken Goujons

For the Chicken:

1.5 lbs (680g) chicken breast, cut into strips
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried herbs (oregano or thyme)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil spray

Optional Dipping Sauces:

Ranch dressing
Honey mustard
BBQ sauce
Sweet chili sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken Strips

Cut the chicken breast into even strips, approximately ½ inch thick and 3 inches long. Pat each strip completely dry with paper towels to ensure the coating adheres properly.

Setting Up Your Coating Station

Arrange three shallow dishes in a row. Fill the first with flour, the second with beaten eggs, and the third with panko breadcrumbs mixed with all the seasonings.

Creating the Perfect Coating

Dredge each chicken strip first in flour, shaking off excess. Then dip into beaten egg, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, press firmly into the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, ensuring complete coverage.

Preheating the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat for 3 minutes. This ensures even cooking from the moment you add the chicken.

Air Frying to Perfection

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil. Place chicken goujons in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch. Spray tops lightly with olive oil. Cook for 6 minutes, flip carefully, spray again, and cook for another 5-6 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Final Touch

Let the goujons rest for 2 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and the coating to set perfectly.

What to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Goujons With

Classic Sides:

Crispy sweet potato fries
Coleslaw with tangy dressing
Corn on the cob
Garden salad with ranch

Comfort Food Pairings:

Creamy mashed potatoes
Mac and cheese
Baked beans
Garlic bread

Healthy Options:

Roasted vegetables
Quinoa salad
Steamed broccoli
Fresh fruit salad

Top Tips for Perfecting Air Fryer Chicken Goujons

Achieving Maximum Crispiness

Pat chicken completely dry before coating. Any moisture will prevent the breadcrumbs from adhering properly and create soggy spots.

Even Cooking Results

Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure proper air circulation around each goujon.

Flavor Enhancement Secrets

Let the coated chicken rest for 5 minutes before air frying. This helps the coating set and creates better adhesion during cooking.

Temperature Precision

Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internal temperature. This guarantees both safety and optimal texture.

Oil Spray Technique

Use olive oil spray rather than brushing oil directly. This creates more even coverage and prevents the coating from becoming greasy.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Proper Storage Methods

Store leftover chicken goujons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Instructions

For longer storage, freeze cooked goujons for up to 3 months. Arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to freezer bags.

Reheating for Best Results

Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving as this will make the coating soggy.

Make-Ahead Options

You can prepare the coated goujons up to 24 hours in advance. Store covered in the refrigerator and air fry when ready to serve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but ensure chicken is completely thawed and patted dry before coating. Frozen chicken will release excess moisture and prevent proper browning.

What’s the best substitute for panko breadcrumbs?

Regular breadcrumbs work well, though they won’t be quite as crispy. Crushed cornflakes or crackers also make excellent alternatives for extra crunch.

How do I prevent the coating from falling off?

Ensure chicken is completely dry, press coating firmly, and let coated chicken rest for 5 minutes before cooking. Don’t skip the flour step as it helps other coatings adhere.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Absolutely! The recipe is naturally dairy-free. Just ensure your chosen seasonings and dipping sauces don’t contain dairy products.

What size air fryer do I need?

Any standard air fryer (3-6 quart) will work perfectly. Larger air fryers may require slight timing adjustments, so monitor closely during cooking.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding. Overcrowded goujons won’t crisp properly and may cook unevenly.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (4 goujons)
Calories	285
Protein	32g
Carbohydrates	18g
Fat	8g
Saturated Fat	2g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	480mg
Cholesterol	95mg

Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Additional Helpful Tips and Variations

Spicy Cajun Variation

Add 1 teaspoon each of cayenne pepper, paprika, and garlic powder to your breadcrumb mixture for a zesty kick that’ll wake up your taste buds.

Parmesan Herb Coating

Mix ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese with Italian herbs into your breadcrumbs for a sophisticated flavor profile that rivals any upscale restaurant.

Gluten-Free Alternative

Replace regular flour and breadcrumbs with almond flour and crushed gluten-free crackers. The results are equally delicious and suitable for dietary restrictions.

Meal Prep Success

These goujons are perfect for weekly meal prep. Cook a large batch and portion with different sides throughout the week for varied, exciting meals.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your coating isn’t crisping properly, try increasing the temperature by 25°F and extending cooking time by 2-3 minutes. Every air fryer model performs slightly differently.

This complete recipe guide ensures you’ll create perfect air fryer chicken goujons every single time. The combination of detailed instructions, helpful tips, and variation options makes this recipe accessible for cooks of all skill levels while delivering consistently delicious results that your family will request again and again!