January 10, 20263hlhm

Perfectly Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Breast






Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Breast | Quick & Easy Recipe


Perfectly Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Breast

Say goodbye to dry, bland chicken! This air fryer chicken breast recipe delivers incredibly juicy, flavorful, and tender results every single time. It’s a healthy, protein-packed main dish that’s ready in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 12-15 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Servings: 2


Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
  • 1 tablespoon olive 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: Lemon wedges and fresh parsley for serving

Instructions

  1. Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a good sear.
  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 them.
  3. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C) for 3-5 minutes. Preheating helps cook the chicken evenly.
  4. Cook: Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, not touching. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time.
  5. Check for Doneness: The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) on a meat thermometer inserted into 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 with lemon wedges and fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Success

Even Thickness: For perfectly even cooking, pound thicker chicken breasts to a uniform ¾-inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.

Don’t Overcrowd: Always cook in a single layer with space between pieces. Cook in batches if necessary.

Temperature is Key: Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Remove chicken at 165°F.

Get Creative: Swap the spice blend for taco seasoning, Italian herbs, or a simple brush of BBQ sauce in the last few minutes of cooking.

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