Description
This Air Fryer Chicken Breast recipe delivers juicy, tender chicken with a crispy exterior using a quick and easy air frying method. Perfectly seasoned with garlic, paprika, and optional herbs, it’s a healthy, low-fat, and flavorful main course ideal for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (preferably uniform size)
Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional dried herbs (such as thyme or oregano)
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove any moisture, which helps the seasoning stick better and ensures a crisp crust when air frying.
- Season Thoroughly: Brush olive oil evenly on both sides of the chicken. Sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and optional dried herbs. Gently rub the spices into a thin, flavorful coating.
- Preheat Your Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for 3-5 minutes to ensure immediate cooking once the chicken is placed inside.
- Cook the Chicken: Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer inside the air fryer basket without overlapping. Cook for 10 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 6-8 minutes depending on thickness. Use a meat thermometer to verify the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and juicy when sliced.
Notes
- Ensure chicken breasts are of uniform size for even cooking.
- Adjust seasoning quantities to your taste preferences.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid undercooking or overcooking.
- Resting the chicken is crucial for juicy meat.
- Optional herbs add extra flavor but can be omitted for simplicity.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
