Air Fryer Chicken Breast Recipe (Tender & Juicy!)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Air Fryer Chicken Breast recipe delivers perfectly tender, juicy, and flavorful chicken with a golden exterior—all with minimal oil and cook time. It’s an ideal protein option for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a healthy lunch, and the air fryer ensures consistent, quick cooking without drying out the meat.

ingredients

this Recipe

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

boneless skinless chicken breastsolive oilpaprikagarlic powderonion powdersaltblack pepperdried oregano or Italian seasoning

directions

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.

Rub each chicken breast with olive oil.

In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and oregano.

Sprinkle the seasoning blend evenly over both sides of the chicken.

Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, not overlapping.

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

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 2-4 people.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 16-18 minutesResting time: 5 minutesTotal time: 25-28 minutes

Variations

Add a squeeze of lemon juice after cooking for a fresh, zesty finish.

Coat in a light breadcrumb mixture for a crispy exterior.

Brush with BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.

Use different seasoning blends like Cajun, taco, or curry powder for variety.

Slice and use in wraps, salads, or bowls.

storage/reheating

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.Can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning and cooking.

Why is my chicken dry?

Overcooking can dry it out—use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (74°C).

Do I need to preheat the air fryer?

Preheating helps achieve even cooking and a better texture.

Can I cook multiple chicken breasts at once?

Yes, as long as they’re in a single layer without overlapping.

Is this recipe low carb?

Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and suitable for keto and paleo diets.

Can I marinate the chicken first?

Absolutely, marinate for at least 30 minutes for extra flavor.

What oil is best to use?

Olive oil or avocado oil are great choices for high-temperature cooking.

How thick should the chicken breasts be?

Try to use evenly sized breasts, about 1 inch thick for even cooking.

Can I use bone-in chicken?

You can, but increase the cooking time and use a thermometer to ensure doneness.

Can I make this spicy?

Yes, add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Chicken Breast is a fast, easy, and healthy way to enjoy juicy, flavorful chicken any day of the week. Whether you’re meal prepping or making a quick dinner, this method guarantees delicious results every time with minimal cleanup. Try it once, and you’ll keep coming back for more.

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