Air Fryer Chicken Breast

Name: Air Fryer Chicken Breast
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Enjoy perfectly cooked chicken breasts with a crispy exterior and juicy interior using your air fryer.

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2025-12-24T17:57:37.637Z

This air fryer chicken breast recipe is a game changer for busy weeknights. It's quick, easy, and results in tender, juicy chicken every time.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Perfectly crispy outside while remaining juicy inside
Quick cook time makes it ideal for busy weeknights
Healthy alternative to fried chicken with less oil

      

The Benefits of Air Frying

Air frying is a fantastic cooking method that has taken the culinary world by storm. It allows you to achieve that coveted crispy texture without the excessive oil used in traditional frying. This means you can enjoy your favorite fried foods with significantly fewer calories and fat, making it a healthier choice for those conscious of their dietary intake. The air fryer circulates hot air around the food, producing a deliciously crispy exterior while keeping the insides tender and juicy.

One of the major advantages of air frying chicken breasts is the speed at which they cook. With a typical cook time of just 18-20 minutes, you can have a wholesome, delicious meal on the table in no time. This makes air frying an excellent option for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners. Plus, the ease of preparation allows you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal with family or friends.

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Chicken

To ensure that your air fryer chicken breasts turn out perfectly every time, start by patting the chicken dry with paper towels. Moisture on the surface can prevent the chicken from achieving that sought-after crispiness. Additionally, let the chicken rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking. This helps to promote even cooking and results in a tender, juicy end product.

Using a meat thermometer is crucial for determining when your chicken is fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). This ensures that the chicken is safe to eat while still being moist and flavorful. If you’re cooking multiple breasts, make sure they are of similar size for even cooking. Larger pieces may require additional time, while smaller pieces may cook faster, so keep an eye on them during the cooking process.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your air fryer chicken breast.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make delicious air fryer chicken breast.

Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve a crispy texture.

Season the Chicken

In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken breasts.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.

Cook the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Rest and Serve

Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Enjoy your delicious air fryer chicken breast!

Now that your chicken is ready, you can serve it with your favorite sides!

Serving Suggestions

Once your air fryer chicken breasts are cooked to perfection, consider serving them with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. The versatility of chicken allows it to pair beautifully with a variety of sides. You can also slice the chicken and add it to wraps, sandwiches, or grain bowls for a delicious, protein-packed lunch.

For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle some homemade sauce or dressing over the chicken, such as a tangy lemon vinaigrette or a creamy garlic sauce. This not only enhances the taste but also adds a delightful visual appeal to your dish.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the cooked chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheating in the air fryer is a great option. It helps to restore the crispiness while heating the chicken evenly. Simply place the chicken back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, checking for doneness.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked chicken. Wrap each breast tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to three months. When reheating from frozen, allow the chicken to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before following the reheating instructions for the air fryer.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

→ Can I add different spices?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices and herbs.

→ What can I serve with air fryer chicken breast?

This chicken pairs well with salads, rice, or roasted vegetables.