This Air Fryer Chicken Breast is juicy, tender, and perfectly seasoned, ready in under 20 minutes. It’s a healthy, easy dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or simple family meals. Learn how to cook chicken breast in the air fryer without drying it out. Save this recipe for later.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy – ready in under 20 minutes
- Family-friendly – simple flavors everyone enjoys
- Budget-friendly – uses pantry staples
- Customizable – change seasonings to match any meal
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Seasoning Variations
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Remove chicken breasts from the fridge and let rest for 10 minutes.
- Pat chicken dry with paper towels.
- Brush both sides with olive oil.
- In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Season chicken evenly on both sides.
- Preheat air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3 minutes.
- Place chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Air fry for 10 minutes, flip, then cook another 6–8 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Meat thermometer
- Small mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Paper towels
Tips & Variations
- Even cooking: Pound chicken breasts to even thickness if needed.
- Extra juicy: Brine chicken in saltwater for 15 minutes before cooking.
- Storage: Store cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes.
- Avoid overcooking: Always check internal temperature rather than time alone.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad
- Slice over pasta or rice bowls
- Use for sandwiches, wraps, or meal prep
- Pair with mashed potatoes or quinoa
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
Conclusion
This Air Fryer Chicken Breast is a simple, reliable recipe you’ll use again and again. It’s fast, healthy, and versatile enough for countless meals throughout the week. Save this recipe, print it, and share it with anyone looking for perfectly cooked chicken every time.
FAQ – Air Fryer Chicken Breast
Can I freeze air fryer chicken breast?
Yes. Freeze cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
How can I make this ahead of time?
Cook the chicken and store it in the fridge for meal prep throughout the week.
Can I use bone-in chicken breast?
Yes, but cooking time will increase by 5–7 minutes.
Why is my chicken dry?
Overcooking is the most common cause use a meat thermometer for best results.
Do I need to flip the chicken?
Yes, flipping halfway ensures even browning and cooking.