Air Fryer Chicken Breast

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Enjoy juicy and flavorful chicken breasts cooked to perfection in your air fryer. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep.

Vanessa Doyle

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2025-12-24T15:03:41.077Z

This air fryer chicken breast recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can enjoy a healthy and satisfying meal in no time.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Juicy and tender chicken with a crispy exterior
  • Quick cooking time, perfect for busy evenings
  • Healthy and low-fat option for your family meals

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken

To achieve the perfect air fryer chicken, ensure that your chicken breasts are of uniform size. This allows for even cooking and prevents some pieces from being overcooked while others are undercooked. If the breasts are large, consider slicing them in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets.

Marinating your chicken for at least 30 minutes before cooking can enhance the flavor and tenderness. You can use the same seasoning mix with added lemon juice or yogurt for an extra punch. Just remember to pat them dry before cooking for that desirable crispy finish.

Serving Suggestions

Air fryer chicken breasts pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them alongside roasted vegetables, a fresh garden salad, or creamy mashed potatoes for a balanced meal. You can also slice the chicken and use it in wraps or sandwiches for a satisfying lunch.

If you're looking for a flavorful sauce to drizzle over the chicken, consider a homemade chimichurri or a tangy barbecue sauce. These add a delightful twist to the dish and can elevate your dining experience.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftover chicken, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess.

To reheat, simply place the chicken back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through. This method will help maintain the chicken's crispy exterior while keeping it juicy inside.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Air Fryer Chicken Breast

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to season the chicken well for maximum flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a crispy texture.

Season the Chicken

In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken breasts.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

Check for Doneness

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If not done, cook for additional 3-5 minutes.

Rest and Serve

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides.

Enjoy your delicious air fryer chicken breast!

Nutritional Benefits

This air fryer chicken breast recipe is not only delicious but also a healthy choice. Chicken breast is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. It's low in fat, making it an excellent option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.

Additionally, using olive oil in the seasoning adds healthy fats and antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation in the body. Pairing this dish with vegetables increases your meal's nutritional value, providing essential vitamins and minerals.

Variations on the Recipe

While the basic recipe is delicious on its own, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix. Alternatively, try using different herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fresh, aromatic flavor.

If you’re feeling adventurous, marinate the chicken in different sauces, such as teriyaki or honey mustard, before air frying. These variations can provide a whole new flavor profile and keep your meals exciting.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time by 5-10 minutes.

→ What can I serve with air fryer chicken breast?

It pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

→ Can I use other seasonings?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices and herbs.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover chicken breasts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Air Fryer Chicken Breast

Enjoy juicy and flavorful chicken breasts cooked to perfection in your air fryer. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time30 minutes

Created by: Vanessa Doyle

Recipe Type: Quick & Easy

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients for Air Fryer Chicken Breast

  1. 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  2. 2 tablespoons olive oil
  3. 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  4. 1 teaspoon onion powder
  5. 1 teaspoon paprika
  6. Salt and pepper to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a crispy texture.

Step 02

In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken breasts.

Step 03

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.

Step 04

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

Step 05

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If not done, cook for additional 3-5 minutes.

Step 06

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 165 kcal
  • Total Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 0g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugars: 0g
  • Protein: 31g