January 10, 20263hlhm

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Breast






Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Breast: A Quick & Healthy Recipe


Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Breast

This air fryer chicken breast recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort and cleanup. The air fryer’s rapid hot air circulation creates a beautifully crispy, golden exterior while keeping the inside incredibly juicy and tender. It’s a foolproof method for a healthy, protein-packed dinner any night of the week.

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 herbs

Instructions

  1. Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a crispy crust. If the breasts are very thick or uneven, pound them gently to an even thickness (about ¾-inch) for consistent cooking.
  2. Season: In a small bowl, mix the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken breasts, then rub the spice mixture evenly all over to coat.
  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 better sear.
  4. Cook: Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, not touching. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. Cooking time may vary slightly based on the thickness of your chicken and your specific air fryer model.
  5. Check for Doneness: The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) on an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part.
  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 every bite is moist. Serve with lemon wedges and your favorite sides.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken

Don’t Skip the Dry Step: Moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Always pat your chicken dry before adding oil and seasoning.

Even Thickness is Key: Pounding or butterflying thicker breasts ensures they cook evenly, preventing a dry exterior and undercooked center.

Don’t Overcrowd: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the basket leads to steaming, not crisping.

Experiment with Seasonings: This spice blend is versatile. Try adding a pinch of cayenne for heat, or swap for taco seasoning, lemon pepper, or a simple mix of rosemary and black pepper.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

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

Calories: 250 | Protein: 38g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 1.5g | Carbohydrates: 2g | Fiber: 0.5g | Sugar: 0g | Sodium: 680mg

Serving Suggestions

This versatile chicken pairs wonderfully with almost any side. Serve it over a fresh garden salad, with a side of , creamy mashed cauliflower, or on a bun for a healthy sandwich. Drizzle with a little buffalo sauce or a yogurt-based herb sauce for extra flavor.