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A perfectly cooked and sliced chicken breast is presented on a light green plate, with steam rising from it. The chicken has a golden-brown, seasoned skin and a juicy white interior. It is garnished with fresh parsley, lemon slices, and a small bowl of dipping sauce.
Julia Morel

Air Fryer Chicken Breast

This air fryer chicken breast recipe guarantees juicy, flavorful results every time with minimal prep and a simple spice rub. Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or a healthy lunch, it's low-carb, gluten-free, and ready in under 20 minutes!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 14 minutes
Total Time 24 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 326

Ingredients
  

Chicken
  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
Seasoning Blend
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
  • 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper

Method
 

  1. Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board. Cover with plastic wrap and gently pound to even thickness using a rolling pin or meat mallet.
  2. For optional dry brine, sprinkle kosher salt on both sides and refrigerate uncovered for 30 minutes to 24 hours. Skip if not using.
  3. Remove chicken from fridge and let rest at room temperature for 15 minutes.
  4. In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Add salt if skipping dry brine.
  5. Drizzle chicken with olive oil and coat with seasoning blend on both sides.
  6. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes. Place chicken smooth side down in the basket.
  7. Cook for 6 minutes, flip, then continue 2–8 more minutes until internal temperature reaches 155–160°F (68–71°C).
  8. Transfer to a plate, cover loosely with foil, and rest 5–10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

For best results, use chicken breasts of similar size. Flattening ensures even cooking, and resting after cooking helps retain moisture. Try different spice blends or marinades for variety. Reheat leftovers in air fryer at 350°F for 2–3 minutes.

Nutrition Information

  • Calories: 326 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 1 g
  • Protein: 48 g
  • Fat: 13 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 2 g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.03 g
  • Cholesterol: 145 mg
  • Sodium: 845 mg
  • Potassium: 870 mg
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Sugar: 0.1 g
  • Vitamin A: 325 IU
  • Vitamin C: 3 mg
  • Calcium: 24 mg
  • Iron: 1 mg