Air Fryer Chicken Breast is a fantastic way to achieve crispy, tender, and juicy chicken without the need for excessive oil. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, meal prep, or a healthy dinner, this dish is sure to impress.
Why This Air Fryer Chicken Breast Is the Best
- Crispy Exterior: The air fryer gives the chicken a golden-brown, crispy coating.
- Tender and Juicy Inside: Despite the crispy exterior, the chicken remains tender and juicy inside.
- Healthy Cooking Method: Air frying uses less oil, making it a healthier option compared to traditional frying.
- Simple and Quick: This recipe is easy to prepare and cook, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or guests, Air Fryer Chicken Breast is a versatile and delicious choice. The crispy coating and juicy interior make it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredient Notes
- Chicken Breasts: Thinly sliced cutlets cook quickly and evenly in the air fryer, resulting in a juicy, tender interior.
- Oil: A light coat of olive oil (or other preferred oils) helps the bread crumbs adhere and promotes a golden, crisp crust in the air fryer.
- Bread Crumbs: Dried bread crumbs provide texture and a crunchy coating, while also carrying the seasoning mixture.
- Seasonings: A blend of paprika, chili powder, garlic and onion powders, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper infuses the breading with a balance of smoky, slightly spicy, and savory notes.
Tips for Making the Best Air Fryer Chicken Breast
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality chicken breasts.
- Season Well: Season the chicken generously with your favorite spices and herbs.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer for a few minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Place the chicken in a single layer to allow hot air to circulate properly for even cooking.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Serving Suggestions
- With a Side Salad: Serve Air Fryer Chicken Breast with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- With Steamed Vegetables: Pair with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for added nutrition.
- With Quinoa or Rice: Serve with quinoa or brown rice for a hearty and wholesome accompaniment.
- With Fresh Cucumber and Lime: Add cucumber slices and lime wedges for a refreshing touch.
- With Green Peas: Include a serving of green peas for added flavor and color.
A Must Try
These Air Fryer Chicken Breasts are not just a healthier alternative to fried chicken; they are a delightful dish that combines convenience and great taste. Perfect for any meal, these chicken breasts are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delicious and satisfying flavors that come from air frying!
Be sure to check out these other delicious dinner recipes!
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Oven Baked Chicken Breast
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Chinese Lemon Chicken
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Skillet Citrus Chicken Tenders
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Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Air Fryer Chicken Breast
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts boneless and skinless sliced into thin cutlets
- 1 Tbsp oil olive oil canola, or vegetable oil
- ½ cup 25gr dried bread crumbs
- ½ Tsp paprika
- ¼ Tsp dried chili powder
- ¼ Tsp ground black pepper
- ¼ Tsp garlic powder
- ¼ Tsp onion powder
- ¼ Tsp cayenne pepper
- ½ Tsp salt
Instructions
Breaded Version:
- Place the chicken breasts in a bowl, drizzle with oil, and toss until evenly coated. In a shallow dish, combine the dried bread crumbs with the spices, mixing thoroughly. Press each chicken breast into the bread crumb mixture to coat, then place them in your air fryer basket.
- Air fry the chicken at 390°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes. After the first 7 minutes, open the air fryer and flip the chicken to the other side. Continue cooking for another 3-5 minutes, adjusting as needed based on the size of the chicken breasts.
Unbreaded Version:
- Drizzle oil over the boneless, skinless chicken breasts and season them with your preferred spices and seasonings.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, with the smooth side facing down. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through with kitchen tongs for even cooking.
- When the cooking time is complete, take the chicken out of the air fryer right away to prevent it from drying out. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Store the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze it for up to 2 months.