Description
This Air Fryer Chicken Breast recipe offers a quick and easy way to prepare juicy, flavorful chicken breasts with a perfectly crispy exterior using simple seasonings and the convenience of an air fryer. The process includes dry brining for enhanced flavor and moisture, followed by air frying to achieve a tender and delicious result in under an hour.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Pound: Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and cover with a large sheet of plastic wrap. Use a rolling pin, meat mallet, or your palm to lightly pound the chicken into an even thickness to ensure even cooking.
- Dry Brine: Sprinkle kosher salt evenly over the chicken breasts and place them on a plate. Refrigerate uncovered for at least 30 minutes or up to 1 day to enhance the flavor and juiciness. Skip this step if not brining.
- Rest: Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking. This helps the chicken cook evenly.
- Prepare Spice Mix: In a small bowl, mix together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. If you skipped dry brining, add the salt now.
- Coat Chicken: Place the chicken in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle the spice mix over the chicken and toss thoroughly to coat all sides evenly.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C), which should take about 3 minutes depending on your model.
- First Cook: Place the chicken breasts smooth side down in the air fryer basket and cook for 6 minutes.
- Flip and Continue Cooking: Carefully remove the basket and flip the chicken using tongs. Continue cooking for an additional 2 to 8 minutes until the internal temperature reaches between 155°F and 160°F. The total cook time varies based on chicken size, typically 8 to 14 minutes in total.
- Rest and Serve: Transfer the chicken to a plate, cover loosely, and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This allows carryover cooking to complete and juices to redistribute. Slice and serve.
Notes
- Dry brining is optional but recommended to enhance moisture and flavor.
- Cooking time varies based on the size of chicken breasts; smaller pieces cook faster.
- Do not overcook to avoid dry chicken; remove when slightly under the target temperature as carryover heat will finish cooking.
- Ensure the air fryer basket is not overcrowded for even cooking and crispiness.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness accurately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 30 minutes to 1 day if dry brining)
- Cook Time: 8 to 14 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American