January 10, 20263hlhm

Crispy & Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Breast






Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Breast | Quick & Easy Recipe


Crispy & Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Breast

Say goodbye to dry chicken! This air fryer chicken breast recipe delivers a crispy, golden exterior and a tender, juicy interior every single time. It’s a simple, healthy, and incredibly fast solution for dinner.

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

Servings: 2 | Course: Main Course

Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 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 (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Cooking spray or oil spray (for the air fryer basket)

Optional for serving: Fresh lemon wedges, chopped parsley, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Instructions

  1. Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels. This is the key to getting a crispy crust. If the breasts are very thick or uneven, pound them gently to an even thickness (about ¾-inch) for consistent cooking.
  2. Season: In a small bowl, mix the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken breasts, then rub the spice mixture evenly all over both sides of the chicken.
  3. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3-5 minutes. Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  4. Cook: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the preheated basket in a single layer, not touching. Air fry for 10-12 minutes.
  5. Flip & Finish: Carefully flip the chicken breasts using tongs. Continue to air fry 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 maximum juiciness. Slice and serve immediately.

Expert Tips for Perfect Chicken

Dry the Chicken: Never skip drying the chicken. Moisture on the surface creates steam, which prevents crisping.

Even Thickness: Pounding the chicken ensures it cooks evenly, so you don’t end up with dry edges and an undercooked center.

Don’t Overcrowd: Cook in batches if necessary. Crowding the basket leads to steamed, soggy chicken.

Use a Thermometer: For foolproof results, a quick-read meat thermometer is your best friend. Pull the chicken at 165°F.

Get Creative: Swap the seasoning for taco seasoning, lemon pepper, or a simple brush of BBQ sauce in the last 2 minutes of cooking.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

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

Calories: ~250 | Protein: 38g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 1.5g | Carbohydrates: 2g | Fiber: 0.5g | Sugar: 0.1g | Sodium: 650mg

Ready in Minutes!

This air fryer chicken breast recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It’s lean, packed with protein, and endlessly versatile. Serve it sliced over a salad, alongside roasted veggies, or in a sandwich for a delicious and satisfying meal any day of the week.



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**Featured Image Suggestion:**
A high-quality, overhead photo showing one golden-brown, crispy air fryer chicken breast sliced on a wooden cutting board, with juicy interior visible. Place fresh lemon wedges and a small bowl of dipping sauce (like honey mustard) next to it. The air fryer basket can be seen in the blurred background. Use natural light for an appetizing look. Alt Text: “Sliced crispy air fryer chicken breast with lemon wedges on a wooden board.”