Air Fryer Chicken Breast Recipe (Tender & Juicy!)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Air Fryer Chicken Breast recipe delivers perfectly cooked, juicy, and tender chicken breasts in no time. With a crispy exterior and a moist interior, it’s a simple, healthy, and quick meal that can be served with just about anything. The air fryer ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and locks in all the delicious flavors without the need for excessive oil.

ingredients

this Recipe

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

chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
olive oil
garlic powder
onion powder
paprika
salt
black pepper
dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)

directions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
3. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil to ensure they stay juicy and help the seasoning stick.
4. In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or seasonings.
5. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they’re not overlapping for even cooking.
7. Cook for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is golden and cooked through.
8. Remove the chicken from the air fryer and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 2-4 people, depending on the size of the chicken breasts.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 18-20 minutes
Resting time: 5 minutes
Total time: 28-30 minutes

Variations

• Add lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice for a fresh, zesty flavor.
• For a spicier kick, include cayenne pepper or chili powder in the seasoning mix.
• Use chicken breast tenderloins for a quicker cook time.
• Marinate the chicken in your favorite marinade for 30 minutes before cooking for extra flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftover chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can cook frozen chicken breasts in the air fryer. Increase the cook time to 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. Ensure the chicken reaches 165°F internally.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs, though they may take a bit longer to cook. Bone-in thighs will take longer than boneless.

Do I need to flip the chicken halfway through cooking?

Yes, flipping the chicken helps it cook evenly on both sides for the best texture and color.

Can I cook multiple chicken breasts at once?

Yes, but make sure the chicken breasts are not overcrowded in the air fryer basket to ensure they cook evenly.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Chicken Breast is a quick, easy, and foolproof way to enjoy tender and juicy chicken with minimal effort. The air fryer gives you that perfect crispy exterior while keeping the chicken moist inside. Whether you’re looking for a healthy dinner or a quick meal prep option, this recipe is sure to become a go-to!

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