Air Fryer Chicken Breast (the juiciest)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air Fryer Chicken Breast is the ultimate quick and juicy protein option—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and ready in under 20 minutes. With simple seasoning and no breading required, it’s a healthy, flavorful choice for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or slicing over salads and bowls.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless skinless chicken breastolive oilpaprikagarlic powderonion powderdried oregano or thymeblack peppersalt

directions

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes.

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.

In a small bowl, mix olive oil with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper to create a seasoning paste.

Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken breasts, coating evenly.

Place the chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer.

Cook for 9–10 minutes, then flip and cook another 7–9 minutes, depending on thickness.

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 2–4 servings depending on portion size.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 16–20 minutesResting time: 5 minutesTotal time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

Add lemon zest or juice for a citrusy twist.

Use smoked paprika or chili powder for extra flavor.

Swap herbs with Italian seasoning or Cajun blend.

Top with melted cheese in the last 2 minutes of cooking.

Marinate the chicken in yogurt or buttermilk for added tenderness.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 4–5 minutes or in the microwave for 1–2 minutes.Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I cook frozen chicken breasts in the air fryer?

Yes, increase the cook time by 5–8 minutes and check the internal temperature.

Why is my chicken dry?

Overcooking can cause dryness—use a thermometer to avoid this.

Do I need to pound the chicken?

It helps ensure even cooking, especially if the breasts are thick or uneven.

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, but increase the cook time and check temperature carefully.

Is oil necessary?

A small amount of oil helps the seasoning stick and promotes browning.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.

What’s the best way to slice for salads?

Let it rest, then slice thinly against the grain for tender pieces.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Chicken Breast delivers juicy, flavorful results with minimal effort and clean-up. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, this quick recipe gives you tender, perfectly seasoned chicken every time. Ideal for meal prep, salads, sandwiches, or eating straight from the plate.

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