Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Breast






Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Breast: A Quick & Healthy Recipe


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.

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

Servings: 2 | Category: Main Course | Method: Air Fryer

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: Pinch of cayenne pepper for heat

Instructions

  1. Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels. This is the secret to getting a crispy crust.
  2. Pound (Optional): For even cooking, place chicken between plastic wrap and gently pound the thicker ends to an even 1-inch thickness.
  3. Season: Drizzle chicken with oil and rub to coat. In a small bowl, mix all dried spices. Sprinkle the seasoning blend evenly over both sides of the chicken, pressing gently to adhere.
  4. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3-5 minutes, if your model recommends it.
  5. Cook: Place chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer, not touching. Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Chicken is done when internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Rest & Serve: Transfer chicken to a plate, tent loosely with foil, and let it rest for 5 minutes. This keeps the juices inside. Slice and serve.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken

Use a Meat Thermometer: This is the most reliable way to ensure perfect doneness without overcooking.

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

Customize Seasonings: Swap the spice blend for taco seasoning, Italian herbs, or a simple lemon-pepper mix.

For Extra Crispiness: Lightly spray the seasoned chicken with cooking oil spray before air frying.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

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

Calories: 250 | Protein: 35g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Carbohydrates: 2g | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 0g | Sodium: 680mg

Ready in Minutes!

This air fryer chicken breast is a game-changer for healthy eating. It’s versatile enough for salads, bowls, sandwiches, or as a simple main with your favorite sides. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation.



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**Featured Image Suggestion Description:**
“A close-up, overhead shot of perfectly cooked, golden-brown air fryer chicken breast, sliced to reveal the juicy interior, resting on a white plate. A small bowl of the spice blend and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme are scattered nearby for visual appeal. The image is bright, clean, and focuses on the crispy texture of the chicken.”