Air Fryer Chicken Breast

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air Fryer Chicken Breast is a quick, juicy, and flavorful option for a healthy weeknight dinner or meal prep. With minimal oil and a simple seasoning blend, this recipe delivers perfectly cooked chicken with a lightly crisp exterior and tender interior. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s a versatile protein that pairs well with salads, grains, or veggies.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless skinless chicken breastsolive oilgarlic powderpaprikaonion powdersaltblack pepperdried oregano (optional)lemon juice (optional for added brightness)

directions

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.

Brush or drizzle olive oil over both sides of the chicken.

In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and oregano (if using).

Rub the seasoning blend evenly over the chicken breasts.

Place the chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer.

Cook for 10 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 6-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Remove the chicken and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Add a squeeze of lemon juice if desired for extra flavor.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 2-4 servings depending on portion size.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 16-18 minutesResting time: 5 minutesTotal time: 25-28 minutes

Variations

Use Italian seasoning instead of the spice blend for a herb-forward flavor.

Marinate the chicken in Greek yogurt, lemon, and spices for a tender Mediterranean twist.

Add chili powder or cayenne for a spicier version.

Top with shredded cheese in the last 2 minutes for a melty finish.

storage/reheating

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.To reheat, place in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes.For longer storage, freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, but thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even results.

Why is my chicken dry?

Overcooking is the main reason—use a meat thermometer to avoid this.

Can I cook multiple breasts at once?

Yes, as long as they’re in a single layer and not overlapping.

Do I need to pound the chicken first?

Pounding to an even thickness helps with even cooking but is optional.

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, but increase cooking time and check for doneness.

Can I meal prep with this recipe?

Absolutely—it’s perfect for salads, wraps, and rice bowls throughout the week.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s low-carb and fits keto or paleo diets.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

You can bake the chicken at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes instead.

Do I need to flip the chicken?

Flipping halfway helps with even browning, so it’s recommended.

What goes well with this chicken?

Serve with roasted veggies, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Chicken Breast is a fast and foolproof way to enjoy tender, juicy chicken any day of the week. With endless seasoning options and easy prep, it’s a reliable go-to for healthy meals that don’t skimp on flavor. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.

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