Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Breast

Air fryer chicken breast is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It cooks faster than an oven and yields incredibly juicy meat with a delightfully crispy, seasoned crust—all with minimal oil. This foolproof method delivers perfect results every time.

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
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon chili powder for a kick

Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for crispiness. If breasts are very thick or uneven, pound them to an even 1-inch thickness for even cooking.
2. Season: Drizzle chicken with oil and rub to coat. In a small bowl, mix all dry spices (paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, pepper). Sprinkle the seasoning blend evenly over both sides of the chicken, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C) for 3-5 minutes, if your model recommends it.
4. Cook: Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, not touching. Air fry at 380°F (195°C) for 10-12 minutes.
5. Flip & Finish: Flip the chicken breasts over using tongs. Continue cooking for another 2-5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer at 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. Slice and serve.

Expert Tips for the Best Results

Don’t Skip the Dry Brine: For even more flavor and juiciness, season the chicken with salt up to 2 hours ahead and let it rest in the fridge.

Avoid Overcrowding: Cook in batches if necessary. Crowding the basket leads to steaming, not crisping.

Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer. Cooking time can vary based on air fryer model and chicken thickness.

Get Creative: Swap the spice blend 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 kcal
• Protein: 36g
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 0g
• 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 dipping sauce.