There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a perfectly cooked bone-in chicken breast—crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside. As someone who loves cooking but also appreciates efficiency, I’ve found that the air fryer is a game-changer for achieving restaurant-quality chicken at home. No more dry, overcooked breasts—just golden, flavorful meat every time.
This recipe is one of my go-to weeknight dinners because it’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. The air fryer locks in moisture while giving the skin that irresistible crunch. Plus, bone-in chicken breasts stay juicier than boneless cuts, making them a foolproof choice for a delicious meal. Whether you’re new to air frying or a seasoned pro, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Bone-in chicken breast: This cut is ideal for air frying because the bone helps retain moisture, preventing dryness. Look for breasts with the skin on for extra crispiness.
Olive oil: A light coating of olive oil helps the seasoning stick and promotes even browning. It also adds a subtle richness to the chicken.
Paprika: Smoky and slightly sweet, paprika gives the chicken a beautiful color and depth of flavor.
Garlic powder: A must for savory, aromatic seasoning that enhances the natural taste of the chicken.
Onion powder: Adds a mild, sweet onion flavor without the texture of fresh onions.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for bringing out all the other flavors and balancing the dish.
Dried thyme (optional): A touch of thyme adds an earthy, herby note that pairs perfectly with chicken.
Ingredients List
- 2 bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp dried thyme (optional)
How to Make Air Fryer Bone-In Chicken Breast
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve a crispy exterior.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels—this helps the skin crisp up better. In a small bowl, mix the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and thyme (if using).
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Drizzle the chicken with olive oil, then rub the spice mixture evenly over both breasts, making sure to coat the skin thoroughly.
Step 4: Air Fry the Chicken
Place the chicken in the air fryer basket, skin side up, ensuring they aren’t overlapping. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 22-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Rest Before Serving
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps the juices inside, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Don’t skip preheating—it helps with even crisping.
- Dry the chicken well before seasoning for the crispiest skin.
- Check the temperature with a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
- Adjust cook time if your air fryer runs hotter or cooler than average.
- Add a squeeze of lemon after cooking for a bright, fresh finish.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead?
Yes, but reduce the cooking time to 15-18 minutes to prevent drying out.
Do I need to flip the chicken?
Flipping ensures even browning, but if you prefer extra-crispy skin, you can cook it skin-side down first, then finish skin-side up.
Can I make this recipe without oil?
A light oil coating helps crisp the skin, but you can use cooking spray for a lower-fat option.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer to maintain crispiness.
What sides go well with this chicken?
Try roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Enjoy your perfectly crispy, juicy air-fried chicken breast—it’s sure to become a family favorite!