Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Breast

Say goodbye to dry, bland chicken! This air fryer chicken breast recipe delivers incredibly juicy meat with a deliciously seasoned, crispy exterior every single time. It’s a fast, healthy, and foolproof solution for busy weeknights.

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 oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional garnish: Fresh chopped parsley

Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels. This is the secret to getting a crispy crust.
2. Season: Drizzle the chicken with oil. In a small bowl, mix all the dried spices. Rub the seasoning blend evenly over all sides of the chicken breasts.
3. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C) for 3-5 minutes, if your model requires it.
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 it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) on a meat thermometer.
6. Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps all the juices inside. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken

For even cooking, try to use chicken breasts of similar size and thickness. If one is much thicker, you can pound it gently to an even thickness.

Don’t overcrowd the basket. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure proper air circulation and crispiness.

Experiment with different spice blends! Italian seasoning, lemon pepper, or a Cajun mix are all fantastic alternatives.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Note: Nutrition is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

• Calories: ~250
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Sodium: 650mg

Serving Suggestions

This versatile chicken pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, quinoa, or mashed potatoes. Slice it for salads, chop it for wraps, or serve it whole alongside your favorite sides.