Air fryer chicken breast
Air fryer chicken breast is a simple, quick way to make juicy and tender chicken with a nice crispy outside. Using the air fryer means you get that golden crust…
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Air fryer chicken breast is a simple, quick way to make juicy and tender chicken with a nice crispy outside. Using the air fryer means you get that golden crust without deep frying, and the chicken stays moist on the inside. It’s perfect when you want a healthy meal that doesn’t take much time or effort.
I love making air fryer chicken breast because it’s so easy to season however I like—sometimes just salt and pepper, other times with a little garlic powder or paprika. It’s great to throw in the air fryer, set the timer, and then focus on making a quick side or salad. Plus, there’s no mess of oil splatters to clean up.
My favorite way to serve it is sliced over a fresh salad or alongside roasted veggies. Leftovers also reheat nicely and work well in sandwiches or wraps for lunch the next day. If you like a little extra flavor, I sometimes add a squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of my favorite sauce right before serving. It’s a go-to weeknight meal that always feels satisfying and fresh.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Using boneless, skinless breasts keeps it simple and lean. If you prefer, thighs work well too—they stay juicy but need a slightly different cook time.
Olive oil: This helps the seasoning stick and keeps the chicken moist. If you want a lighter option, try avocado oil or spray a light mist of cooking spray.
Seasonings: Garlic powder and smoked paprika add great flavor. Feel free to swap smoked paprika for regular paprika or chili powder for a bit of spice. Dried thyme or Italian seasoning add an herby touch—rosemary or oregano work well too.
Salt and pepper: Essential for enhancing flavor. Use sea salt or kosher salt if you have it for a finer taste.
How Can I Make Sure Air Fryer Chicken Breasts Stay Juicy?
Dry the chicken breasts well before seasoning. This helps the oil and spices stick and aids browning. Don’t overcrowd the basket—give each piece space for air to circulate.
- Preheat the air fryer for even cooking from the start.
- Flip halfway through to get a golden crust on both sides.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (74°C) to avoid overcooking.
- Let the chicken rest 5 minutes after cooking to keep juices inside.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Air fryer – the star tool here; it cooks chicken quickly and gives a crispy outside without extra oil.
- Tongs – help you safely flip the chicken halfway through cooking without piercing the meat.
- Meat thermometer – makes sure your chicken hits 165°F for safe, juicy results every time.
- Small bowl – handy for mixing your seasoning and oil before rubbing it on the chicken.
- Paper towels – useful for drying chicken breasts, which helps the seasoning stick and promotes browning.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try Cajun seasoning for a spicy kick that pairs well with the crisp air fryer crust.
- Add lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice after cooking for fresh brightness.
- Swap garlic powder for onion powder or smoked chili powder for a different smoky flavor.
- Top cooked chicken with chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for color and extra taste.
Air Fryer Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: fresh parsley or herbs for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and 16-18 minutes to cook in the air fryer. Add an extra 5 minutes resting time to let the juices settle. In total, around 25-30 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Chicken:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. While that’s heating, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to get rid of any extra moisture—this helps them cook better and brown nicely.
2. Mix and Apply Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning mix evenly all over both sides of the chicken breasts so every bite is full of flavor.
3. Air Fry the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a single layer in the air fryer basket—make sure they don’t overlap so they cook evenly. Cook for 10 minutes, then use tongs to flip them over. Cook for another 6-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken looks golden brown.
4. Rest and Serve:
Take the chicken out and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps keep the chicken juicy. If you like, garnish with fresh parsley or herbs and serve warm. Enjoy your tasty, perfectly cooked air fryer chicken breast!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken breasts in the fridge overnight before cooking. Cooking frozen chicken directly in the air fryer will result in uneven cooking.
How Should I Store Leftover Air Fryer Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Adjust the Seasonings?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out dried thyme for rosemary, add a pinch of cayenne for heat, or use your favorite spice blends to suit your taste.
Is It Necessary to Flip the Chicken During Cooking?
Flipping helps ensure both sides get a nice, even golden crust. If your air fryer circulates air very well, you might get away without flipping, but it’s best to flip for consistent results.
