Description
Discover the secret to perfectly juicy, crispy, and flavorful air fryer chicken breast every time! A quick, healthy, and versatile recipe for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or family meals.
Ingredients
2–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (5–7 oz each)
2 tablespoons avocado oil (or olive oil)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Optional for extra crisp & flavor:
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon cornstarch
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
For serving:
Fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro)
Lemon wedges
Instructions
Step 1 – Preheat
Preheat air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
Step 2 – Prep Chicken
Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If uneven in thickness, pound gently to 1-inch even thickness.
Step 3 – Make Seasoning Mix
In a medium bowl, combine avocado oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper. For optional crispiness, add brown sugar and cornstarch.
Step 4 – Coat Chicken
Brush or toss chicken breasts in the seasoning mixture until evenly coated.
Step 5 – Arrange in Air Fryer
Place chicken breasts in a single layer inside the basket. Do not overcrowd.
Step 6 – Cook
Cook for 12–15 minutes total. Start with 6–7 minutes on the first side, then flip and cook another 6–8 minutes until golden.
Step 7 – Check Doneness
Use an instant-read thermometer at the thickest part of the breast. Chicken is done at 165°F (74°C).
Step 8 – Rest & Serve
Transfer to a plate, tent loosely with foil, and rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with lemon wedges and fresh herbs.
Notes
Always use a thermometer for best accuracy.
Spray lightly with cooking spray before cooking for a crispier texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approx. 6 oz)
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
Keywords: Air Fryer Chicken Breast, Healthy Chicken Recipe, Easy Dinner, Juicy Chicken Breast, Crispy Air Fryer Chicken, Meal Prep Chicken, Low Carb Chicken