This Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken is zesty, tender, and perfectly crispy on the outside, ready in just 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep, this easy air fryer recipe is full of bright lemon flavor and savory pepper seasoning. Save it for your next fast, healthy dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy – dinner ready in under 20 minutes
- Family-friendly – mild, zesty flavors everyone loves
- Budget-friendly – simple, affordable ingredients
- Customizable – adjust lemon, pepper, or add herbs
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Optional garnish: fresh parsley or lemon wedges
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- Pat chicken dry with paper towels.
- Brush olive oil on all sides of the chicken.
- Season with garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and lemon zest.
- Place chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Air fry for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until internal temp reaches 165°F.
- Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the chicken before serving.
- Rest for 3 minutes to lock in juices.
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Tongs
- Paper towels
- Small bowl (for lemon juice)
- Meat thermometer
Tips & Variations
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed.
- For extra flavor, marinate chicken in lemon juice and olive oil for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Add herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano for more depth.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Swap chicken breasts for thighs for juicier results.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with roasted vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes.
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a light, healthy dinner.
- Garnish with lemon wedges and parsley for an elegant presentation.
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving – 1 chicken breast)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
Conclusion
This Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken is fast, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Juicy, zesty, and easy to make, it’s a recipe your family will request again and again. Save, print, and share this recipe it’s sure to become a favorite.
FAQ Section
Can I freeze this chicken?
Yes. Fully cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in the air fryer or oven.
How do I keep chicken juicy?
Use thicker cuts, don’t overcook, and allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking.
Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes, but increase cooking time by 3–5 minutes and check internal temperature.
Can I add more lemon flavor?
Absolutely. Add extra lemon zest or juice before serving.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Season and prep the chicken ahead of time, then air fry when ready to eat.