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Air Fryer Chicken Breast

This air fryer chicken breast recipe relies on simple seasoning and hot air circulation to produce a crispy, juicy cutlet in under 20 minutes. Main ingredients include lean chicken breasts seasoned with spices and olive oil, resulting in a tender exterior with a flavorful, golden-brown crust. The final dish is succulent, evenly cooked, and perfect for quick, satisfying meals.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces chicken breasts boneless, skinless
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for rubbing
  • 1 teaspoon salt to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
  • 1 teaspoon paprika or smoked chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder or onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried herbs (thyme or rosemary) optional

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Meat thermometer
  • Tongs
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for about 5 minutes, so it’s nice and hot for crisping.
  2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels until they feel firm and no longer moist—this helps achieve a crispy exterior.
  3. Rub each chicken breast with olive oil, making sure to coat all sides evenly.
  4. Sprinkle salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and herbs over the chicken, then rub the seasonings in to distribute evenly.
  5. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren’t touching for optimal air circulation.
  6. Cook the chicken for 10 minutes, then carefully flip each piece using tongs to promote even browning.
  7. Continue cooking for another 8-10 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) and the outside is golden and crispy.
  8. Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute and keeping the meat tender.
  9. Slice the chicken against the grain and serve with your favorite sides or salads for a satisfying meal.

Notes

For extra flavor, sprinkle some fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon over the chicken before serving. Adjust seasoning to your taste for a milder or spicier profile.