Name: Air Fryer Chicken Breasts
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 8 min
Ingredients: 1 - 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts; 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon sea salt; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

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Air Fryer Chicken Breasts – easy, foolproof recipe for tender, JUICY chicken in 10 minutes with a simple 4-spice blend.

white plate with air fryer chicken breasts, one whole and one sliced garnished with lemon slices

These Air Fryer Chicken Breasts are tender, JUICY and a game-changer. No joke.

They cook to tender, juicy perfection in less than 10 minutes seasoned with 4 simple spices you probably already have (two of which are salt and pepper).

This recipe is versatile – perfect for dinner on a busy weeknight (add some creamy mashed potatoes!), a great lean protein tossed into your favorite salad or meal prep for the week.

white plate with two air fryer chicken breasts - one sliced garnished with lemon slices and parsley

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS AIR FRYER CHICKEN RECIPE:

Air frying is the BEST way to tender, juicy chicken every time.
No marinating, brining or cooking spray needed!
Juicy chicken is one meal the whole family will get into.
My combination of spices is an easy and great way to add tons of flavor.
Air fried chicken is my favorite way to cook chicken because it’s fool-proof.
Slice and add to dishes like Creamy Parmesan Rice or Pesto Pasta too

WHAT DO I NEED TO MAKE AIR FRYER CHICKEN BREASTS?

boneless skinless chicken breasts
olive oil
sea salt
paprika
garlic powder
black pepper

HOW TO MAKE AIR FRYER CHICKEN BREASTS:

Add paprika, garlic powder, sea salt and black pepper to a small bowl. Drizzle in olive oil. Stir to combine well.

Dab any excess moisture from the chicken with a paper towel.

Brush spice mix on all sides of the chicken until well coated.

Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees.

Transfer raw chicken to the preheated air fryer basket in a single layer leaving a little space between them.

Air fry 8 minutes turning the chicken over halfway through cook time or until the chicken reaches an internal temp of 160 degrees in the thickest part of the breast (chicken will continue to cook while resting for a final internal temp of 165).

Remove chicken from the air fry to a cutting board or plate. Rest 5 minutes then serve.

cutting board with cooked air fryer chicken breasts

HOW LONG TO COOK AIR FRYER CHICKEN BREASTS:

Cooking time will vary with the size and thickness of the chicken breasts. Use the guideline below and a meat thermometer to be sure your chicken is cooked through.

Small breasts (4-6 ounces) 6-8 minutes

Medium breasts (7-9 ounces) 7-10 minutes

Large breasts (10 ounces or more) 11-14 minutes

EXPERT TIPS FOR BEST RESULTS:

Allow a little space between the chicken breasts in the air fryer so hot air can circulate.

Choose equal sized chicken breasts so they cook evenly.

Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel before seasoning.

Flip the chicken over halfway through cooking.

Use a meat thermometer to be sure chicken is cooked to the proper temp. If you don’t have a meat thermometer, use a knife to slice into the thickest part of the breast (juices should run clear).

HELPFUL SUBS AND ADDITIONS:

If you prefer, use chicken thighs – adjust cook time accordingly.
Add chili powder ground cayenne pepper to the spice mix for a little kick.
Onion powder can also be included in the spice mix.
Any prepackaged chicken seasoning will work well – Montreal Steak Seasoning

HOW TO SAFELY STORE LEFTOVERS:

Cool chicken completely then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge up to 4 days.

BEST SIDE DISHES WITH AIR FRYER CHICKEN BREASTS:

Bright green air fryer roasted broccoli in black bowl

black bowl with smoked gouda mashed potatoes and a pat of butter on top

LOOKING OR MORE EASY CHICKEN RECIPES?

black plate with hot honey lemon pepper chicken tenders and slices of fresh lemon

overhead view white plate with grilled split chicken breasts brushed with bbq sauce

Enjoy!