How long do you cook chicken breast in the air fryer?

Cooking time depends on the size and thickness. On average, chicken breasts take between 14 to 18 minutes at 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Always use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature has reached 165 degrees.

How do you keep chicken breast from drying out in an air fryer?

Dryness often comes from overcooking. Use an instant-read thermometer and remove the chicken once it hits 160 degrees, then let it rest. Also, pat the chicken dry before cooking and allow it to rest after to keep juices sealed inside.

What is the best seasoning for air fryer chicken breast?

A blend of kosher salt, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper works well for bold, savory flavor. For variety, try Cajun, Italian herbs, or a smoky and sweet rub with brown sugar and chili powder.

Can you put frozen chicken breast in an air fryer?

Yes, you can. Add a few extra minutes to the cook time and flip halfway through. For best results, thaw first to season evenly and ensure full flavor penetration.

Do you need to flip chicken breast in the air fryer?

Yes, flipping halfway through helps both sides cook evenly and gives a more balanced browning. It also helps prevent one side from getting too dry or overcooked.

Air Fryer Chicken Breast – The Best 20-Minute Juicy Recipe

Description

Quick, juicy, and full of flavor, this air fryer chicken breast is a weeknight staple that’s ready in minutes and stays moist inside with a golden, seasoned crust.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken

Two boneless skinless chicken breasts

One tablespoon olive oil

For the Seasoning Mix

Half a teaspoon kosher salt

Half a teaspoon dried oregano

Half a teaspoon smoked paprika

Half a teaspoon black pepper

Half a teaspoon garlic powder

Tip: Use even-sized chicken breasts for consistent cooking. If they’re thick in spots, gently pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy throughout.

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Instructions

1. Mix the seasoning

2. You have two great options for seasoning.

3. For the Paste Method (Great for moisture): In a small bowl, combine all spices with the olive oil to form a paste.

4. For the Classic Dry Rub Method (More foolproof for crisping): In a small bowl, combine all the dry spices. First, rub the chicken with olive oil, then sprinkle and rub the dry seasoning mix evenly over the top.

5. Prep the chicken

6. Pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels. This step is key to helping the seasoning stick and to promote browning. Rub the spice paste evenly over both sides of the chicken.

7. Preheat the air fryer

8. Set your air fryer to 370 degrees Fahrenheit and let it preheat for about three minutes. This ensures even cooking right from the start.

9. Cook the chicken

10. Place the chicken breasts in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Cook for ten minutes.

11. Flip and finish cooking

12. Turn the chicken over and continue cooking for another four to eight minutes. Check doneness with an instant-read thermometer. It should read 160 degrees at the thickest point.

13. Let it rest

14. Remove the chicken from the air fryer and loosely cover it with foil. Let it rest for five minutes. This resting time allows the juices to settle, giving you moist and flavorful results.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Letting the chicken rest is crucial for juiciness.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 14 to 18 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 breast
Calories: 326 kcal
Sugar: 0.1 g
Sodium: 845 mg
Fat: 13 g
Saturated Fat: 2 g
Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
Trans Fat: 0.03 g
Carbohydrates: 1 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 48 g
Cholesterol: 145 mg