Easy Air Fryer Chicken Breast Recipe: Juicy, Tender, and Flavorful

Looking for a must-make air fryer chicken breast recipe? You've found it! This chicken is coated in a simple spice blend of paprika, garlic powder, dried herbs, salt, and pepper, infusing it with incredible flavor. In just 10 minutes, you'll have juicy and tender chicken breasts that are virtually impossible to overcook. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 7 oz each)
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (or other herbs)
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

   • Lightly pound the thick end of each chicken breast to ensure even cooking. Avoid over-pounding to keep the chicken juicy.
   • Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts and use your hands to coat them thoroughly. This helps the seasoning stick better.

2. Season the Chicken:

   • In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, dried thyme, kosher salt, and ground black pepper.
   • Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the chicken breasts and rub it in with your hands to ensure an even coat. Flip the chicken and season the other side.

3. Cook in the Air Fryer:

   • Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer, smooth side down.
   • Set the air fryer to 375°F and cook for 7 minutes. Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 3 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. The chicken will continue to cook as it rests.

4. Rest and Serve:

   • Transfer the cooked chicken breasts to a plate or cutting board and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing. This ensures they remain juicy.
   • Serve with your favorite sides.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Breast

• Even Cooking: Use chicken breasts of similar size to ensure even cooking. Larger chicken breasts may require slightly longer cooking times.
• Avoid Overcooking: An instant-read thermometer is your best friend. Aim for an internal temperature of 160°F.
• Meal Prep: Air fryer chicken breasts are perfect for meal prep. Slice or dice them for salads, bowls, or keep them whole for easy weeknight dinners.

Side Dish Suggestions

• Air Fryer Veggies: Green beans, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, asparagus, carrots, and beets all cook wonderfully in the air fryer.
• Mashed Potatoes: Bake potatoes in the air fryer, then mash them for a quick and easy side dish.

Final Thoughts

Air fryer chicken breasts are a game-changer for quick, healthy meals. Plus, using the air fryer means you don't have to heat up the oven (and your kitchen) in the summertime. For more delicious air fryer recipes, make sure to subscribe to my channel.