Air Fryer Chicken Breast Recipe (Tender & Juicy!)

Short Description

This Air Fryer Chicken Breast recipe delivers perfectly tender and juicy chicken in just minutes. It’s a quick and easy way to prepare a healthy, protein-packed meal with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy—ready in under 20 minutes
• Requires minimal ingredients
• Perfectly tender and juicy every time
• Healthier than pan-fried options
• Versatile for meal prep, salads, or sandwiches

this Recipe

Ingredients

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

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Onion powder
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Italian seasoning (optional)
• Lemon juice (optional, for added flavor)

Directions

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for a few minutes.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Brush both sides with olive oil.
3. Season: In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Rub the mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
4. Cook the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 8-10 minutes, then flip and cook for another 8-10 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Rest & Serve: Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2-4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 16-20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix.
• Lemon Herb: Add fresh lemon zest and chopped herbs like parsley or rosemary.
• Garlic Parmesan: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese before air frying.
• BBQ Style: Brush with your favorite BBQ sauce in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
• Asian-Inspired: Marinate in soy sauce, ginger, and honey before air frying.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken breasts for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, but increase the cooking time by 5-7 minutes and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

Avoid overcooking, let the chicken rest before slicing, and use a meat thermometer.

Can I marinate the chicken beforehand?

Absolutely! Marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for extra flavor.

What sides go well with this dish?

Pair it with roasted vegetables, rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.

Do I need to flip the chicken halfway through?

Yes, flipping ensures even cooking and prevents one side from drying out.

Can I cook multiple chicken breasts at once?

Yes, but make sure they are in a single layer with space between them for air circulation.

What if my air fryer doesn’t have a preheat setting?

Simply let it run for about 3-5 minutes before adding the chicken.

Can I use chicken thighs instead?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer.

What if my chicken is too thick?

Pound it to an even thickness or slice it in half for even cooking.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Conclusion

This Air Fryer Chicken Breast recipe is a game-changer for quick, healthy, and delicious meals. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a go-to option for busy weeknights or meal prep. Try it today and enjoy tender, juicy chicken with ease!

Print