Air Fryer Chicken Breast Recipe

Learn how to make the best homemade air fryer chicken breasts that are juicy inside with a perfectly seasoned exterior. This easy cooking recipe uses simple ingredients and the power of circulating hot air to create tender, flavorful chicken without excess oil. Perfect for quick weeknight meals or meal prep!

Difficulty:

Beginner

Prep Time:

10 mins

Cook Time:

12 mins

Serves:

4 servings

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 150g each)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tbsp olive oil</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp paprika</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp garlic powder</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp dried oregano</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/2 tsp onion powder</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/2 tsp salt</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Fresh lemon wedges, for serving (optional)</li></ul>

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"><li class="equipment-single-item">Air fryer</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Meat thermometer</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Tongs</li></ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>If your chicken breasts are particularly thick or uneven, place them between two sheets of parchment paper and gently pound them to an even thickness of about 2cm. This ensures they'll cook evenly throughout. Pat the chicken completely dry with paper towels - this is crucial for achieving a good exterior texture.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, dried oregano, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to create your seasoning blend.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil on both sides, then sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over all sides, pressing gently to help it adhere. The oil helps the seasonings stick and promotes browning in the air fryer.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Preheat your air fryer to 190°C for 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures the chicken starts cooking immediately when placed in the basket, which helps develop that beautiful golden exterior.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don't overlap or touch. If your air fryer is small, you may need to cook in batches. Leave space between pieces to allow hot air to circulate properly around each piece.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Cook the chicken breasts for 5 minutes, then flip them over using tongs. Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, depending on thickness. The air fryer creates a convection effect that cooks the chicken quickly while sealing in moisture.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer - it should read 74°C when inserted into the thickest part of the breast. This ensures the chicken is safely cooked while remaining juicy. If needed, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes and check again.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4>Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before slicing. This resting period is critical as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat instead of running out when cut.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 9</h4>Serve the chicken breasts whole or sliced, with fresh lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top if desired. The acid from the lemon brightens the flavors and complements the seasoning blend perfectly.</li></ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Air Fryer Chicken Breast Recipe?

This recipe uses boneless, skinless chicken breasts, olive oil, and a flavourful seasoning blend of paprika, garlic powder, dried oregano, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper. Fresh lemon wedges are suggested for serving.

How to cook Air Fryer Chicken Breast Recipe at home?

Learn how to cook Air Fryer Chicken Breast Recipe by patting the chicken dry, coating with olive oil and seasonings, then air frying at 190°C. Cook for 5 minutes, flip, and continue for another 5-7 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 74°C. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving for maximum juiciness.

How do you prevent chicken breasts from drying out in an air fryer?

Prevent dryness by pounding to even thickness, not overcooking, and using a meat thermometer to reach exactly 74°C. The brief cooking time (about 12 minutes total) and the 5-minute resting period are crucial for retaining moisture and ensuring juicy results.

Can you put raw chicken directly in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook raw chicken directly in an air fryer. Just ensure it's properly seasoned, placed in a single layer without overcrowding, and cooked to the safe internal temperature of 74°C. Clean your air fryer thoroughly afterward to prevent cross-contamination.

What sides pair well with air-fried chicken breasts?

Air-fried chicken breasts pair beautifully with roasted vegetables, a crisp green salad, quinoa or rice pilaf, sweet potato fries, steamed broccoli, or a light pasta salad. For a complete meal, choose a starch and vegetable side to complement the lean protein.

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