Crispy & Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Breast
Forget dry, bland chicken! This air fryer chicken breast recipe delivers a crispy, golden exterior and incredibly juicy interior every single time. It’s a healthy, protein-packed main dish ready in under 20 minutes, perfect 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: 1/4 teaspoon chili powder for a kick
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels. This is the #1 secret for crispy skin!
- Pound (Optional): For even cooking, place chicken between plastic wrap and gently pound to an even 3/4-inch thickness.
- Season: Drizzle chicken with oil and rub to coat. In a small bowl, mix all dry spices. Sprinkle the seasoning blend evenly over both sides of the chicken, pressing gently to adhere.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3-5 minutes, if your model requires it.
- Cook: Place chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer, not touching. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Cooking time depends on thickness.
- Check for Doneness: Chicken is done when internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) on an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part.
- Rest: Let chicken rest for 5 minutes on a cutting board before slicing. This keeps all the juices inside.
Tips for Success
Dry the Chicken: Never skip drying the chicken. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
Even Thickness: Pounding ensures the chicken cooks evenly, preventing dry edges.
Don’t Overcrowd: Leave space between breasts for proper air circulation.
Use a Thermometer: This is the most reliable way to guarantee juicy, safe-to-eat chicken.
Variations: Swap the spices for taco seasoning, Italian herbs, or a simple lemon-pepper blend.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Note: Nutrition is an estimate and may vary based on ingredient brands and sizes.
Calories: ~250 | Protein: 35g | Fat: 10g | Carbs: 2g | Sodium: 650mg
Serve & Enjoy!
This versatile air fryer chicken breast is perfect sliced over salads, served with roasted vegetables and rice, stuffed into wraps, or enjoyed on its own. It’s a simple, foolproof method that will become your go-to for a quick, healthy, and delicious protein.
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**Featured Image Suggestion:**
A high-quality, well-lit photo showing a golden-brown, crispy air fryer chicken breast sliced open on a white plate, revealing its juicy interior. Place a small bowl of dipping sauce (like honey mustard) and some fresh herbs (like parsley or thyme) nearby for color. The air fryer basket can be visible in the background for context.