Air fryer chicken breast is a quick and easy way to enjoy tender, juicy chicken without a lot of fuss. Using an air fryer allows you to achieve crispy, golden-brown skin while keeping the inside moist and flavorful. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or whenever you’re craving a healthy protein option. With minimal prep and cooking time, you’ll have delicious chicken ready to serve in no time.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- Optional: Fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary) for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Drizzle olive oil over both sides of the chicken breasts, then sprinkle evenly with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Step 2: Air Frying
- Place in the Air Fryer: Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overlapping.
- Cook the Chicken: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time using tongs. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.
Step 3: Rest and Serve
- Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the air fryer basket and let them rest on a cutting board for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender chicken.
- Slice and Garnish: Slice the chicken breasts diagonally into strips or cubes. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor and presentation.
Step 4: Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Serve the air fryer chicken breast with your favorite sides such as steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad.
- Sauces: Pair with dipping sauces like barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or a creamy garlic sauce for extra flavor.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer or microwave until warmed through.
Tips for Success
- Even Cooking: Ensure the chicken breasts are similar in size for even cooking. If one is thicker than the other, adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken breasts to ensure they are fully cooked.
- Air Fryer Variations: Cooking times may vary depending on the brand and model of your air fryer. Adjust as needed based on your specific appliance.
Conclusion
Air fryer chicken breast is a simple and healthy dish that can be prepared in just a few steps. With minimal seasoning and cooking time, you’ll have perfectly cooked chicken breasts that are juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside. Enjoy this versatile protein option with your favorite sides or sauces for a delicious meal any day of the week.