There’s something incredibly satisfying about a perfectly cooked chicken breast—juicy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and bursting with flavor. As someone who loves quick, healthy meals without sacrificing taste, I’ve found that the air fryer is a game-changer. It delivers that golden, restaurant-quality crust without the need for excess oil, making it a must-try for busy weeknights.
One of my favorite ways to spice up plain chicken is with a bright, tangy lemon pepper seasoning. The combination of citrusy zest and bold pepper creates a simple yet irresistible dish that pairs well with almost anything—salads, roasted veggies, or even mashed potatoes. Best of all, this recipe takes less than 20 minutes from prep to plate!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken breast: The star of the dish! Opt for boneless, skinless breasts for even cooking. If they’re too thick, you can butterfly or pound them to an even thickness.
Lemon pepper seasoning: A vibrant blend of dried lemon zest, black pepper, and sometimes garlic or salt. It adds a zesty, slightly spicy kick that elevates the chicken beautifully.
Olive oil: Helps the seasoning stick to the chicken while promoting a crispy exterior. You can also use avocado oil for a higher smoke point.
Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed is best—it brightens the flavors and adds a subtle tang that balances the pepper’s warmth.
Garlic powder: Deepens the savory notes and complements the lemon pepper perfectly.
Salt: Just a pinch to enhance all the other flavors. Adjust based on whether your lemon pepper blend already contains salt.
Ingredients List
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
How to Make Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Breast
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels—this helps the seasoning stick better and ensures a crispier finish. If they’re uneven in thickness, lightly pound them to about ½-inch thickness for even cooking.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, mix the lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, and salt. Drizzle the chicken with olive oil and lemon juice, then rub the seasoning mix evenly over both sides. Let it sit for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 3: Air Fry the Chicken
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes. Place the chicken in the basket in a single layer, ensuring space between pieces for proper air circulation. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing. This keeps the juices locked in. Serve with extra lemon wedges or a fresh salad!
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer—cook in batches if needed for the crispiest results.
- Check for doneness early—cooking time may vary based on thickness and air fryer model.
- Marinate for extra flavor—let the chicken sit in the seasoning for up to 30 minutes before cooking.
- Add a little butter—brushing melted butter before air frying adds richness.
- Use fresh lemon zest—if you want an extra citrus punch, add some zest to the seasoning mix.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes! Adjust cooking time to 15-18 minutes since thighs are thicker.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
It’s recommended for even cooking, but if you’re short on time, add 1-2 extra minutes.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes.
Can I make this without oil?
Yes, but the chicken may not crisp up as much. A light spray of cooking oil works too.
What sides go well with this?
Try roasted asparagus, garlic mashed potatoes, or a simple quinoa salad.
This lemon pepper chicken is a foolproof way to enjoy a flavorful, healthy meal in minutes. Give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!