Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Breast: A Simple, Healthy Weeknight Dinner

Master the art of perfectly juicy and crispy air fryer chicken breast with this foolproof recipe. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s a healthy, protein-packed dinner solution for busy nights.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels. This is the #1 secret for crispy skin. For even cooking, lightly pound thicker breasts to an even ¾-inch thickness.
2. Season: In a small bowl, mix the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs (if using), salt, and pepper. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken, then rub the spice mixture evenly all over both breasts.
3. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C) for 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures immediate searing and even cooking.
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.
5. Check for Doneness: The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) on an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part.
6. Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes on a cutting board before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.

💡 Expert Tips for Perfect Chicken

Don’t Overcrowd: Always cook in a single layer with space between pieces for optimal air circulation and crispiness.

Temperature is Key: Use a meat thermometer! Pulling the chicken at 165°F guarantees safety without dryness.

Get Creative: Swap the spices for taco seasoning, Italian herbs, or a simple lemon-pepper blend for easy variety.

Make it a Meal: Serve sliced over a salad, alongside roasted air fryer vegetables, or in a whole-grain wrap with your favorite toppings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air fryer chicken breast is a game-changer for healthy eating. It uses significantly less oil than pan-frying, locks in moisture better than baking, and delivers a deliciously crispy exterior faster than your oven can preheat.

This method is incredibly forgiving for beginners and consistently produces restaurant-quality results with minimal clean-up. It’s the ultimate foundation for countless healthy meals throughout your week.

Featured Image Suggestion: A high-quality, overhead photo of a perfectly golden-brown air fryer chicken breast, sliced to reveal the juicy interior, placed on a white plate with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme and lemon wedges. The air fryer basket can be visible in the background.