Perfectly Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Breast

Cooking chicken breast in an air fryer is a game-changer. It delivers a juicy interior with a beautifully seasoned, slightly crispy exterior—all with minimal oil and almost no mess.

This foolproof method ensures tender results every time, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners, meal prep, or adding protein to salads and bowls.

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 (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: Pinch of chili powder for heat

Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for browning. If breasts are very thick or uneven, pound them gently to an even thickness (about 3/4-inch) for even cooking.
2. Season: Drizzle the chicken with oil and rub to coat evenly. In a small bowl, mix all the dried spices. Sprinkle the seasoning blend generously over both sides of the chicken, patting to adhere.
3. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes. Preheating helps achieve a better sear.
4. Cook: Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, not touching. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time.
5. Check for Doneness: The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) on an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part. Cooking time may vary slightly based on air fryer model and chicken thickness.
6. Rest: 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.
7. Serve: Slice and serve immediately with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

Expert Tips & Variations

For Extra Crispiness: Lightly spray the seasoned chicken with cooking spray before air frying. For a golden finish, brush with a little melted butter in the last 2 minutes of cooking.

Flavor Twists: Swap the spice blend for taco seasoning, lemon pepper, or a simple mix of rosemary and garlic. You can also marinate the chicken in yogurt, lemon juice, or Italian dressing for 30 minutes before seasoning and cooking.

Avoid Overcooking: Using a meat thermometer is the best way to guarantee perfect doneness. Remember the chicken will continue to cook slightly while resting.

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