Description
This air fryer chicken breast recipe is your go-to for perfectly seasoned, juicy, and tender chicken every time. Golden on the outside, moist on the inside, and so versatile—it’s perfect for busy weeknight meals or healthy meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and cover with plastic wrap. Lightly pound to an even thickness.
- (Optional) Sprinkle the chicken with kosher salt and let it brine uncovered in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper in a bowl. If skipping the brine, add salt to the mix.
- Drizzle chicken with olive oil and coat evenly with the spice mixture.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Place chicken smooth side down in the basket and cook for 6 minutes.
- Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 2–8 minutes, depending on size, until the internal temperature reaches 155–160°F.
- Remove chicken and let it rest for 5–10 minutes. Slice and serve!
Notes
- Dry brining is optional but highly recommended for extra juicy and flavorful chicken.
- Use a meat thermometer for accurate results to prevent overcooking.
- Leftovers can be stored for up to 4 days in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer.
- Prep Time: 35 minutes (including optional brine)
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 small (6-ounce) chicken breast
- Calories: 237
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 109mg
Keywords: Air fryer chicken breast, juicy chicken breast, healthy chicken recipes