This Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Breasts recipe is a winner! You’ll get perfectly cooked, tender chicken every time, and it’s so quick to make—perfect for busy days!
I love how easy it is; just season, pop them in the air fryer, and in no time, you’ve got a delicious meal. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy crispy edges with zero frying mess? Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tenderness. If you prefer, you can substitute with chicken thighs for a slightly richer flavor and juiciness.
Olive Oil: This helps the seasoning stick and adds flavor. If you’re looking for a different taste, you can use avocado oil or melted butter instead.
Spices: Garlic powder and paprika give a nice savory flavor. If you’re out of any spices, feel free to replace them. For example, cayenne can add some heat, or Italian seasoning can be switched for any dried herbs you like, such as thyme or rosemary.
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
The key to juicy chicken is ensuring it’s cooked evenly. Pounding the chicken to a uniform thickness helps with that. Here’s how to do it:
- Lay the chicken between plastic wrap or parchment.
- Gently pound with a meat mallet until about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick.
- This method also helps break down muscle fibers for tenderness.
Also, be sure to let the chicken rest after cooking. This keeps the juices locked inside, making every bite delicious!
Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Breasts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 oz each)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or dried oregano/basil)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Cooking spray (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15-20 minutes total. You’ll spend about 5-10 minutes preparing the chicken by seasoning and pounding it for even thickness, then about 10-15 minutes cooking it in the air fryer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely in the air fryer. Then, place the chicken between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper and gently pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 to 3/4 inch. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy!
2. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will add great flavor to your chicken. Brush or rub olive oil on both sides of the chicken breasts, then sprinkle the seasoning evenly on top, pressing lightly so it sticks.
3. Air Fry the Chicken:
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes. While it’s preheating, lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush it with a little oil to prevent sticking. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer in the basket, making sure they don’t overlap. Cook for 10 minutes. After that, flip the chicken breasts over and cook for an additional 6–8 minutes. Check the temperature with an instant-read thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C) when done.
4. Let It Rest:
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes. This step is important because it keeps the juices inside, making the chicken really juicy and tender when you cut into it!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Cut the chicken into slices and serve it warm with your favorite sides, like vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious, juicy air fryer chicken breasts!
FAQ for Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Breasts
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts for this recipe to ensure even cooking. If you have frozen chicken, thaw it in the fridge overnight or use the quick method by submerging it in cold water in a sealed bag for about an hour before preparing.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil on hand, you can substitute it with avocado oil, canola oil, or melted butter. Each will provide a slightly different flavor, but all will work well for this recipe!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the microwave or air fryer, warming it gently until heated through. Make sure to cover it to retain moisture!
What Sides Pair Well with This Chicken?
This air fryer chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Try serving it with steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, garlic mashed potatoes, or fluffy rice to soak up the delicious juices!
