Air Fryer Chicken Breast Recipe
Air fryer chicken breast is a fantastic way to make tender, juicy chicken with a crispy exterior, using minimal oil. This healthy and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a nutritious meal that doesn’t take much time. The seasoning blend provides great flavor, and the air fryer ensures the chicken is perfectly cooked every time.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Drizzle with olive oil and rub it in to coat both sides.
- In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overlapping. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the air fryer and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips
Make sure to pat the chicken breasts dry before seasoning to help the spices stick better and ensure a crispy exterior. You can add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice after cooking for added brightness. Serve with steamed vegetables or a salad for a complete meal.
FAQs
- How do I prevent the chicken from drying out? Don’t overcook the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Can I use frozen chicken breasts? Yes, just make sure to increase the cooking time and check for doneness with a meat thermometer.
- What seasonings can I use? You can use any seasoning blend you like—lemon pepper, Italian herbs, or Cajun spices all work well.
- Do I need to use oil? A little oil helps the seasoning stick and creates a nice crust, but you can use cooking spray as a low-fat alternative.
Conclusion
Cooking chicken breasts in the air fryer is an easy and healthy way to get perfectly juicy, flavorful chicken every time. With minimal prep and cooking time, this air fryer chicken breast recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep. Enjoy it with your favorite sides for a quick, nutritious dinner!