This recipe for air fryer chicken breasts is super simple and gives you juicy, tender chicken in no time. Just season, pop them in the air fryer, and let the magic happen!
I love that it cooks quickly and tastes fantastic! It’s perfect for a busy weeknight when I want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe as they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Thighs tend to be more forgiving if overcooked too!
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds a nice richness and helps the seasonings stick. You can substitute with avocado oil or melted coconut oil if you want a different flavor or if that’s what you have on hand.
Seasonings: The garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and Italian seasoning create a lovely flavor combination. If you’re out of something, try using taco seasoning or your favorite spice blend instead!
Salt and Pepper: Always adjust to your taste! If you’re watching sodium intake, feel free to use a salt substitute or even herbs alone for flavor.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Breasts Stay Juicy?
Juicy chicken comes from proper cooking technique. Here’s how to keep it tender:
- First, dry the chicken with paper towels. This helps the oil and spices stick better.
- Don’t skip the resting time! Letting the chicken rest after cooking allows the juices to redistribute.
- Monitor the internal temperature using a meat thermometer. As soon as it hits 165°F, take it out!
- Avoid crowding the air fryer. Cook in batches if needed for even cooking.
Easy Air Fryer Chicken Breasts for Juicy Results
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time, plus around 20 minutes of cooking in the air fryer. You’ll have juicy, flavorful chicken breasts ready to enjoy in about 35 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer:
Start by setting your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for about 3-5 minutes. This step helps cook the chicken evenly.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This will remove any excess moisture and help the olive oil and seasonings stick better.
3. Season the Chicken:
Brush both sides of the chicken breasts with olive oil to keep them moist during cooking. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts. Don’t be shy—press the seasoning in gently so it sticks!
4. Cooking Time:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure they aren’t overlapping to ensure even cooking. Cook for 10 minutes, then carefully flip the chicken breasts over and cook for another 6-8 minutes. You want the internal temperature to reach 165°F (74°C).
5. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken even juicier! After resting, slice and serve warm with your favorite sides, or chop them up for use in salads, sandwiches, or wraps.
Enjoy your juicy and easy-to-make air fryer chicken breasts!
FAQ for Easy Air Fryer Chicken Breasts
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
While it’s best to use thawed chicken breasts for even cooking, if you’re using frozen chicken, you can air fry them directly. Just increase the cook time to about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Ensure they are thoroughly cooked before serving!
How Long Should I Let the Chicken Rest After Cooking?
Allow the chicken breasts to rest for about 5 minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful when you slice into it!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can cook the chicken ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, ensuring the chicken stays juicy.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve With Air Fryer Chicken Breasts?
This chicken pairs well with various sides! Consider serving it with steamed vegetables, a simple salad, or mashed potatoes. For a low-carb option, try cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
