Air Fryer Chicken Breast (Juicy and Flavorful)

Cooking chicken breast can sometimes be tricky—it’s easy to end up with dry, bland meat. But with this Air Fryer Chicken Breast recipe (no breading required!), you’ll get juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken every time. Whether you’re meal prepping, whipping up a quick dinner, or adding protein to your favorite salad, this recipe is a game-changer!

How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Breast (No Breading)

Using an air fryer ensures your chicken cooks evenly, stays moist, and develops a lightly crisped exterior without the need for breading. The key lies in the right seasonings and a short cooking time at the perfect temperature.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and ensures even cooking.
2. Season Generously: Coat the chicken with olive oil, then rub with your chosen seasonings on all sides.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
4. Cook the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 9-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Variations

1. Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the seasoning mix.
2. Herb-Infused: Include dried oregano, thyme, or rosemary for an herby flavor.
3. Citrus Zest: Add lemon or lime zest to the seasoning for a refreshing twist.
4. Marinated Option: Marinate the chicken in a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and your favorite spices for 30 minutes before cooking.

Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken breasts in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm the chicken in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes, or until heated through.

Directions

1. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
2. Rub olive oil over the chicken, then season with garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
4. Place the chicken in the air fryer basket, ensuring there’s space between each piece.
5. Cook for 9-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature is 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Air Fryer Chicken Breast {No Breading} is the perfect healthy, low-carb, and gluten-free option for a quick and flavorful meal. It’s versatile, customizable, and ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep. Pair it with roasted veggies, a fresh salad, or your favorite side dish for a complete meal.