There’s something incredibly satisfying about a meal that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor. As someone who loves cooking but doesn’t always have hours to spend in the kitchen, I’ve fallen in love with my air fryer. It delivers crispy, golden perfection without the need for excessive oil, making dishes like this Air Fryer Chicken Breast and Potato Cubes a weeknight lifesaver.
This recipe combines tender, juicy chicken with crispy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside potato cubes—all cooked to perfection in one appliance. The best part? It’s a balanced meal with minimal cleanup. Whether you’re new to air frying or a seasoned pro, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of this dish, chicken breasts are lean, protein-packed, and cook beautifully in the air fryer. Look for evenly sized pieces to ensure they cook at the same rate.
Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best here—they crisp up nicely while staying tender inside. Their natural starch helps create that perfect golden exterior.
Olive oil: A light coating helps the seasonings stick and promotes even browning. Extra virgin olive oil adds a subtle richness.
Paprika: This spice brings a mild smokiness and warmth, enhancing the overall flavor of both the chicken and potatoes.
Garlic powder: A convenient way to infuse savory depth without the hassle of fresh garlic burning in the air fryer.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning, they elevate the natural flavors of the dish.
Dried thyme (optional): Adds a subtle earthy note that pairs wonderfully with chicken.
Ingredients List
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 2 medium potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Breast and Potato Cubes
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels—this helps them crisp up better. Then, cut the potatoes into even 1-inch cubes so they cook uniformly.
Step 2: Season the Chicken and Potatoes
In a large bowl, toss the potato cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, ½ teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. In a separate bowl, coat the chicken breasts with the remaining oil and spices, including the optional thyme.
Step 3: Air Fry the Potatoes First
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Add the potatoes in a single layer (cook in batches if needed) and air fry for 10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway for even cooking.
Step 4: Add the Chicken
Push the potatoes to the sides and place the chicken breasts in the center. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally and the potatoes are crispy.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing to retain juices. Serve hot with the crispy potatoes!
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Even Cooking: If your chicken breasts are thick, pound them to an even thickness so they cook uniformly.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Cook in batches if your air fryer is small to ensure crispiness.
- Extra Crispy Potatoes: Soak the potato cubes in cold water for 10 minutes before seasoning to remove excess starch.
- Customize Spices: Swap paprika for cayenne if you prefer heat, or add rosemary for an herby twist.
- Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes! Chicken thighs will be juicier and may need 1-2 extra minutes in the air fryer.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
It’s optional—leaving the skins on adds extra texture and nutrients.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini work well—just adjust cooking times as needed.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best texture.
Why are my potatoes not crispy?
Overcrowding or insufficient oil can prevent crisping. Toss halfway and ensure they’re in a single layer.
Enjoy this simple, delicious meal—it’s proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated!