January 10, 20263hlhm

Perfectly Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Breast






Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Breast | Quick & Easy Recipe


Perfectly Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Breast

Forget dry, bland chicken! This air fryer chicken breast recipe is a game-changer. Using the magic of hot air circulation, it delivers a crispy, golden exterior and incredibly juicy, tender meat inside—all with minimal oil and in less than 20 minutes. It’s the perfect simple protein for busy weeknights.

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 12-15 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes

Servings: 2 | Course: Main Course


Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional for serving: lemon wedges, fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a good sear. If breasts are very thick or uneven, pound them gently to an even thickness (about 3/4-inch) for even cooking.
  2. Season: Drizzle the chicken with oil and rub to coat all sides. In a small bowl, mix all the dried spices (paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper). Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over both sides of the chicken, pressing gently to adhere.
  3. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3-5 minutes. Preheating helps start the cooking process immediately for a crispier exterior.
  4. Cook: Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, not touching. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time.
  5. Check for Doneness: The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part, using a meat thermometer. Cooking time may vary by 1-2 minutes depending on your air fryer model and chicken thickness.
  6. Rest and Serve: Transfer the chicken to a plate, tent loosely with foil, and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum juiciness. Serve with lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Success

Dry the Chicken: Never skip drying the chicken. Moisture on the surface creates steam, preventing a crispy crust.

Even Thickness: Pounding to an even thickness is the #1 secret to preventing the thinner ends from drying out while the center cooks through.

Don’t Overcrowd: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding leads to steaming, not air frying.

Use a Thermometer: For perfect results every time, a quick-read meat thermometer is your best friend. It takes the guesswork out of cooking.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Note: Nutrition is an estimate and may vary based on ingredient brands and sizes.

Calories: 260 | Protein: 38g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Carbohydrates: 2g | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 0g | Sodium: 680mg

Enjoy Your Meal!

This air fryer chicken breast is incredibly versatile. Slice it for salads, chop it for wraps, or serve it whole with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes. Once you master this basic technique, you can experiment with different spice blends and marinades for endless variety. Happy cooking!