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Air Fryer Chicken Breasts

This air fryer chicken breast recipe uses a simple rub of olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs to achieve a perfectly moist and tender interior with a crispy, golden exterior. The quick cooking process and careful attention to patting dry and flipping ensure a juicy, restaurant-quality result that’s ideal for weeknight dinners. The final dish boasts a tender bite with a satisfying crunch, all cooked in under 30 minutes.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces chicken breasts preferably skinless and boneless
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil good quality, fruity flavor
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika smoked paprika recommended
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Zest of 1 lemon lemon zest optional, brightens flavor

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Meat thermometer
  • Tongs
  • Paper towels
  • Cooking brush

Method
 

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F). As it heats, prepare your chicken breasts for seasoning.
  2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a crisp exterior.
  3. Using a cooking brush or your hands, coat each chicken breast evenly with olive oil, ensuring all surfaces are covered.
  4. Mix together salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and lemon zest in a small bowl, then sprinkle generously over both sides of each chicken breast.
  5. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they aren’t overlapping for even cooking.
  6. Cook the chicken for 10 minutes, then open the air fryer and flip each piece using tongs to ensure even browning.
  7. Continue cooking for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) and the surface is golden and crispy.
  8. Remove the chicken breasts and transfer them to a plate. Let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
  9. Slice the chicken against the grain, revealing a juicy interior with a crispy exterior.
  10. Serve immediately, perhaps with your favorite sides, and enjoy that perfect balance of moist and crispy chicken.