Cooking chicken breast in an air fryer is a game-changer! It’s quick, easy, and results in a juicy, flavorful piece of chicken every time. If you’ve been looking for a healthier way to enjoy grilled chicken without firing up the outdoor grill, the air fryer is your best friend. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a must-try.
With just a few simple ingredients and the magic of the air fryer, you can make perfectly grilled chicken breasts that are tender on the inside with a slightly crispy exterior. The best part? It’s a healthier option, as there’s no need for excess oil, and the air fryer uses hot air circulation to lock in the natural juices. Let’s get started!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken Breasts: The star of the show! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. They cook quickly and evenly in the air fryer, ensuring you get tender, juicy chicken. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs, but the cooking time may vary.
Olive Oil: A small amount of olive oil helps to create a crispy, golden exterior. It also helps the seasoning stick to the chicken, ensuring full flavor in every bite.
Garlic Powder: This gives the chicken a delicious, savory flavor without being overpowering. Garlic powder is a must-have in this recipe for that comforting, aromatic taste.
Onion Powder: Onion powder adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the seasoning mix. Together with the garlic powder, it creates a savory base that complements the chicken perfectly.
Paprika: Paprika provides a mild heat and smoky flavor, making the chicken slightly spicy and smoky. It’s an essential ingredient for that grilled taste without actually grilling!
Salt and Pepper: These are your basic seasonings to bring all the flavors together. They enhance the other spices and bring out the natural taste of the chicken.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice gives the chicken a bright, zesty flavor. It helps tenderize the meat while adding a refreshing kick to balance the richness of the other seasonings.
Ingredients List
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
How to Make Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Breast
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps remove excess moisture, allowing the seasoning to stick better. Rub both sides of the chicken breasts with olive oil, making sure they are evenly coated.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning blend generously over both sides of the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well-coated. Squeeze the lemon juice over the chicken for an added touch of brightness and flavor.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes. This ensures the chicken will cook evenly and helps create that crispy, golden exterior.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overlapping. Cook for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken tender and juicy. Slice the chicken and serve with your favorite sides!
Tips for Making this Recipe
- For extra crispy chicken, brush a thin layer of olive oil on the chicken before seasoning it.
- If your chicken breasts are thicker, you may need to increase the cooking time slightly. You can check doneness with a meat thermometer.
- Try using different seasonings like Italian herbs, Cajun seasoning, or a lemon herb mix to change up the flavor profile.
- If you prefer to marinate your chicken, do so for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking for an even deeper flavor.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs. However, the cooking time may vary slightly. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Can I cook multiple chicken breasts at once?
Yes, but be careful not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. Ensure the chicken breasts are in a single layer for even cooking.
Do I need to flip the chicken during cooking?
Yes, flipping the chicken halfway through ensures even cooking and gives the chicken a crispy texture on both sides.
Can I use frozen chicken?
It’s best to thaw the chicken before cooking for the most even and consistent results. If you need to cook frozen chicken, increase the cooking time by about 5-8 minutes, and check the internal temperature before serving.