How to Air Fry Chicken Breast: The Ultimate Guide to Juicy, Tender Perfection

This incredibly easy recipe will show you how to cook consistently juicy and flavorful air fryer chicken breasts every single time. Forget dry, rubbery chicken – air frying is the secret to tender perfection, and this herb and spice seasoned chicken is proof!

Are you looking for a quick and healthy way to get dinner on the table? Or perhaps you need perfectly cooked chicken breast for meal prepping? Look no further! Just like our popular air fryer chicken thighs recipe, this air fryer chicken breast recipe uses a simple yet delicious seasoning blend and is unbelievably versatile. Plus, it’s naturally keto and Whole30 friendly!

Many home cooks are discovering the magic of air frying chicken breast. The circulating hot air creates a beautifully cooked exterior while locking in the juices, resulting in chicken that’s both flavorful and moist. This method is not only faster than traditional oven baking, but it also requires minimal oil, making it a healthier option.

Why Air Fry Chicken Breast? The Benefits You Need to Know

Air frying chicken breast isn’t just another cooking trend; it’s a game-changer for weeknight dinners and meal prep. Here’s why you’ll absolutely love cooking chicken breast in your air fryer:

Speed and Efficiency: Air fryers cook food much faster than conventional ovens because there’s no need to preheat. This means dinner is on the table in less time, perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthy Cooking: Air frying requires significantly less oil than traditional frying methods. You achieve a crispy, golden-brown exterior with just a touch of olive oil, cutting down on unnecessary fats and calories.
Juicy and Tender Chicken: The rapid circulation of hot air in the air fryer cooks the chicken evenly and quickly, sealing in the natural juices. This results in chicken breasts that are incredibly tender and moist, not dry or tough.
Versatility: Air fryer chicken breast is a blank canvas for flavor. From simple herbs and spices to marinades and sauces, you can customize the taste to suit any cuisine or preference. It’s perfect as a main dish, sliced in salads, or added to wraps and sandwiches.
Easy Cleanup: Air fryers are generally easy to clean, especially compared to oven baking or pan-frying. Most models have dishwasher-safe baskets, making post-dinner cleanup a breeze.

Whether you’re a seasoned air fryer enthusiast or a beginner, this recipe will guide you through creating perfect air fryer chicken breasts every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Flavor-Packed Chicken

To make these delicious air fryer chicken breasts, you only need a few simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: The star of the show! Aim for chicken breasts that are roughly the same size for even cooking.
Olive Oil: A little olive oil helps the spices adhere to the chicken and promotes browning.
Kosher Salt: Essential for bringing out the flavor of the chicken. Note: If using Diamond Kosher Salt, you may need to increase the amount slightly as it is less dense than other salts.
Dried Oregano: Adds a warm, slightly peppery, and aromatic flavor. If you’re out, explore these substitutes for oregano.
Paprika: Provides a mild, slightly sweet flavor and beautiful color. For a smoky twist, use smoked paprika. Need a substitute? Here are some great paprika substitutes.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a bit of spice and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Garlic Powder: A convenient way to add savory garlic flavor.

Optional Flavor Boosters:

For a Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the spice blend.
For a Zesty Flavor: Include lemon zest or dried lemon pepper seasoning.
Herb Variations: Experiment with other dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning. Consider using my Chicken Wing Rub, Italian Seasoning or Cajun Seasoning for different flavor profiles.

No matter which combination you choose, using quality spices will significantly enhance the taste of your air fryer chicken breasts.

A simple spice blend is key to flavorful air fryer chicken breast. Combine olive oil, salt, oregano, paprika, black pepper, and garlic powder in a small bowl to create a paste.

Step-by-Step Guide: Mastering Air Fryer Chicken Breast

Cooking chicken breast in the air fryer is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for perfect results:

Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the spice rub adhere better and promotes browning. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, kosher salt, oregano, paprika, black pepper, and garlic powder to create a paste.
Season the Chicken: Generously coat each chicken breast with the spice paste, ensuring all sides are covered.
Preheat Air Fryer (Optional but Recommended): While not strictly necessary for all air fryers, preheating your air fryer to 370°F (188°C) for 3-5 minutes can help achieve a crispier exterior. Check your air fryer manufacturer’s recommendations.
Air Fry the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this can lead to uneven cooking. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer and chicken breasts.
Cook Time and Temperature: Air fry at 370°F (188°C) for 10 minutes. Then, flip the chicken breasts and continue cooking for another 4-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) when measured with an instant-read thermometer. Remember, the total cooking time will vary depending on the thickness and size of your chicken breasts.
Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, transfer the chicken breasts to a plate and tent loosely with aluminum foil. Let them rest for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, resulting in even more tender and flavorful meat. The internal temperature will continue to rise slightly during resting, reaching the safe recommended temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Check for Doneness: Always ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) for food safety. If your chicken hasn’t reached this temperature after resting, return it to the air fryer for another 2-3 minutes and check again. The juices should run clear when pierced with a fork, and the chicken should no longer be pink inside.

Following these steps will ensure your air fryer chicken breasts are cooked perfectly – juicy on the inside and beautifully browned on the outside.

How Long to Air Fry Chicken Breast? Time and Temperature Guide

The exact cooking time for air fryer chicken breast depends primarily on the size and thickness of the chicken breasts. Here’s a general guideline to help you achieve perfectly cooked chicken:

Chicken Breast Size Guide:

Small Chicken Breasts (5-7 oz each): Approximately 14 minutes total cooking time (10 minutes + 4 minutes after flipping).
Medium Chicken Breasts (8-9 oz each): Approximately 16 minutes total cooking time (10 minutes + 6 minutes after flipping).
Large Chicken Breasts (10+ oz each): Approximately 18 minutes total cooking time (10 minutes + 8 minutes after flipping).

Important Notes on Cooking Time:

Use a Meat Thermometer: The most accurate way to determine doneness is to use an instant-read meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken breast, avoiding the bone if present. Aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) before resting.
Air Fryer Variations: Different air fryer models may cook slightly differently. It’s always best to monitor your chicken closely, especially the first time you make this recipe in your air fryer.
Thickness Matters: Thicker chicken breasts will require longer cooking times. If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, you may need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes.
Don’t Overcrowd: Overcrowding the air fryer basket will impede proper air circulation and lead to uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary.

By using a meat thermometer and following these guidelines, you can confidently air fry chicken breasts to juicy perfection every time, regardless of their size.

Air frying chicken breasts to perfection. Place seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded for even cooking.

Expert Tips for the Best Air Fryer Chicken Breast

To elevate your air fryer chicken breast from good to absolutely amazing, consider these helpful tips:

Pat Chicken Dry: Always pat your chicken breasts dry with paper towels before seasoning. This removes excess moisture, allowing the spice rub to adhere better and promoting a beautiful golden-brown crust.
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Ensure chicken breasts are placed in a single layer in the air fryer basket with some space between them. Overcrowding prevents proper air circulation, leading to steaming instead of air frying, and resulting in unevenly cooked chicken. Cook in batches if needed.
Use a Meat Thermometer: Invest in an instant-read meat thermometer. It’s the most reliable tool for ensuring your chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature (165°F/74°C) without overcooking and drying it out. Aim to remove it from the air fryer around 160°F (71°C) as the temperature will continue to rise while resting.
Flip Halfway Through: Flipping the chicken breasts halfway through the cooking time ensures even browning and cooking on both sides.
Rest is Essential: Don’t skip the resting step! Allowing the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after cooking is crucial for tender and juicy results. It allows the juices to redistribute, preventing them from running out when you slice into the chicken.
Experiment with Marinades: While this recipe uses a dry rub, you can also marinate chicken breasts before air frying for added flavor and moisture. Consider using lemon-herb marinades, yogurt-based marinades, or your favorite store-bought marinade.
Add Vegetables for a Complete Meal: Air fry vegetables alongside your chicken for a quick and healthy one-pan meal. Hearty vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus work well. Add them to the air fryer basket about halfway through the chicken cooking time, or slightly earlier for denser vegetables like potatoes or carrots.

By incorporating these tips into your air frying routine, you’ll consistently create restaurant-quality chicken breasts right in your own kitchen.

Delicious Variations and Flavor Ideas

One of the best things about air fryer chicken breast is its versatility. Once you master the basic technique, you can easily customize the flavor to match your cravings or complement any meal. Here are a few delicious variations to try:

Lemon Herb Chicken: Add lemon zest and dried herbs like thyme and rosemary to the spice rub for a bright and aromatic flavor. Serve with roasted vegetables and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Spicy Cajun Chicken: Use Cajun seasoning instead of the herbs and paprika for a flavorful kick. Serve with rice and beans or in tacos.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Omit the oregano and paprika, and increase the garlic powder. After air frying, toss the chicken with melted butter, grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley.
BBQ Chicken Breast: Brush the chicken breasts with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of air frying for a sweet and smoky flavor.
Italian Herb Chicken: Use Italian seasoning blend for a classic Mediterranean flavor. Serve with pasta or a fresh salad.
Honey Mustard Chicken: Whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and a touch of olive oil and brush it over the chicken breasts before air frying or during the last few minutes.

These are just a few ideas to get you started. Feel free to get creative and experiment with your favorite spices, herbs, and sauces to create your own signature air fryer chicken breast variations!

Sauces to Elevate Your Air Fryer Chicken Breast

While air fryer chicken breast is delicious on its own, pairing it with a flavorful sauce can take it to the next level and create an entirely new dish. Here are some sauce ideas that complement chicken beautifully:

Creamy Mushroom Sauce: A classic pairing! A rich and savory mushroom cream sauce like this mushroom sauce adds a touch of elegance.
White BBQ Sauce: For a tangy and slightly spicy twist, try a white BBQ sauce like this white bbq sauce. It’s perfect for chicken and adds a unique Southern flavor.
Peruvian Creamy Green Sauce (Aji Verde): A vibrant and flavorful Peruvian green sauce like this Peruvian creamy green sauce provides a spicy, herbaceous, and creamy kick.
Lemon Butter Sauce: A simple yet elegant sauce made with butter, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. It brightens up the chicken and adds a luxurious touch.
Honey Garlic Glaze: A sweet and savory glaze made with honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. It creates a sticky and flavorful coating on the chicken.
Chimichurri Sauce: A fresh and herbaceous Argentinian sauce made with parsley, cilantro, garlic, oregano, red wine vinegar, and olive oil. It adds a vibrant and zesty flavor to the chicken.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different sauces to discover your favorite pairings with air fryer chicken breast!

Storing and Reheating Leftover Chicken Breast

Air fryer chicken breast is excellent for meal prepping and leftovers. Here’s how to properly store and reheat it:

Storing Leftovers:

Refrigerate: Allow the cooked chicken breasts to cool completely. Then, store them in an airtight container (these are my favorite!) in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freeze: For longer storage, you can freeze air fryer chicken breast. Wrap each chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Chicken Breast:

Skillet/Stovetop: This is often the best method for maintaining moisture. Slice or shred the chicken and add it to a skillet with a splash of water, broth, or sauce. Heat over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
Air Fryer: Reheating in the air fryer can help restore some crispiness. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken breasts in the basket and reheat for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can dry out the chicken.
Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish with a little moisture (water or broth) and cover with foil. Reheat for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
Microwave: While convenient, microwaving can sometimes dry out chicken. If using a microwave, place the chicken breast on a microwave-safe plate with a damp paper towel on top. Reheat in short intervals, checking frequently, until just heated through.

No matter which reheating method you choose, ensure the chicken is heated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.

Recommended Tool for Perfect Chicken

While the recipe is simple, having the right tool can make the process even smoother:

Air Fryer: Naturally, an air fryer is essential! If you’re looking to upgrade or buy a new one, here are my TOP 5 Favorite Air Fryers! Consider a model with a digital display and preheat function for optimal results.
Instant-Read Meat Thermometer: This is a must-have tool for any home cook, especially when cooking chicken. It ensures accurate temperature readings and prevents overcooking or undercooking.

Having these tools on hand will make air frying chicken breast a breeze and guarantee consistently delicious results.

Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Chicken Breast

Can you put raw chicken in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Air fryers are excellent for cooking raw chicken breasts and thighs. Just make sure to cook them thoroughly to a safe internal temperature, following the time guidelines provided in this recipe.

Why is my air fryer chicken tough?
The most common reason for tough air fryer chicken is overcooking. Chicken breast is lean meat and can dry out quickly if cooked for too long. Be sure to use a meat thermometer and remove the chicken from the air fryer when it reaches 160°F (71°C), allowing it to rest and reach 165°F (74°C).

Do you have to flip chicken in the air fryer?
While not strictly mandatory, flipping chicken breasts halfway through cooking is highly recommended for the best results. Flipping ensures even cooking and browning on both sides. However, if you forget, the chicken will still cook, though one side might be slightly more cooked than the other.

Do you have to brine chicken breast before air frying?
Brining can indeed result in even juicier chicken, but it’s not necessary for this recipe! The simple spice rub and air frying method already produce incredibly juicy and flavorful chicken breasts without the extra step of brining. If you have time and prefer brined chicken, feel free to brine your chicken breasts before following this air fryer recipe, but it’s perfectly delicious without brining.

Is air fryer chicken breast healthy?
Yes! Air fryer chicken breast is a healthy cooking option. Air frying requires significantly less oil compared to traditional frying methods, reducing fat and calories. Chicken breast is a lean protein source, and when air fried, it retains its nutritional value while becoming a delicious and satisfying meal.

What to Serve with Air Fryer Chicken Breast

Air fryer chicken breast is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a wide variety of side dishes. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

Vegetables: Roasted vegetables (like broccoli, asparagus, bell peppers, Brussels sprouts), steamed green beans, a fresh salad, or coleslaw. You can even air fry vegetables alongside the chicken!
Grains: Rice (white, brown, or wild rice), quinoa, couscous, or pasta. Consider serving with Instant Pot Risotto for a comforting meal.
Potatoes: Roasted potatoes, mashed potatoes, sweet potato fries, or potato salad.
Salads: Serve sliced air fryer chicken breast over a Caesar salad, garden salad, or pasta salad for a light and refreshing meal.
Bread: Serve with crusty bread, garlic bread, or dinner rolls to soak up any delicious juices.

For a complete and balanced meal, combine your air fryer chicken breast with a serving of vegetables and a healthy grain or starch.

Wine Pairings for Air Fryer Chicken Breast

Air fryer chicken breast, with its mild flavor and versatility, pairs well with a variety of wines. Consider these wine pairings to enhance your dining experience:

Light-bodied White Wines: Crisp white wines like Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, and dry Riesling are excellent choices. Their acidity cuts through the richness of the chicken and complements the herbs and spices.
Medium-bodied White Wines: If you prefer a slightly richer white wine, try Chardonnay (unoaked or lightly oaked) or Viognier. These wines have a bit more body and can stand up to slightly richer sauces or flavorings on the chicken.
Rosé Wines: Dry rosé wines, especially those with fruit-forward notes and good acidity, are a versatile pairing for chicken. They work well with both simple and more flavorful preparations.
Light-bodied Red Wines: For red wine lovers, opt for light-bodied reds like Pinot Noir or Beaujolais. These wines have soft tannins and bright fruit flavors that won’t overpower the chicken.

The best wine pairing ultimately depends on your personal preference and the specific seasonings or sauces you use with your air fryer chicken breast. Experiment and discover your favorite combination!

Perfectly cooked air fryer chicken breast served on a white plate with lemon slices. Garnish with fresh herbs for an elegant presentation.

More Air Fryer Chicken Recipes to Explore

Love air fryer chicken? Expand your culinary horizons with these other delicious air fryer chicken recipes:

Air Fryer Chicken Thighs: Juicy and flavorful chicken thighs cooked to perfection in the air fryer.
Air Fried Crispy Chicken Tenders: Crispy and delicious chicken tenders that are healthier than traditional fried versions.
Air Fryer Chicken Wings: Perfectly crispy chicken wings, great for game day or appetizers.
Explore all air fryer chicken recipes for more inspiration!

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Air Fryer Chicken Breast Recipe

This foolproof recipe makes flavorful and tender air fryer chicken breasts every time, seasoned with herbs and spices.

5 from 1207 votes

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 2
Created by: Platings and Pairings

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
¾ teaspoon kosher salt, *see notes
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

In a small bowl, combine olive oil, kosher salt, oregano, paprika, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix to form a paste.
Coat chicken breasts evenly with the spice paste.
Place chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
Air fry at 370°F (188°C) for 10 minutes. Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 4-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Tent the chicken with foil and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Recipe Notes

*Salt Note: If using Diamond Kosher Salt, increase the amount of salt to 1 teaspoon. Diamond Kosher Salt is less dense and saltier than other brands.
Chicken Thighs: For air fryer chicken thighs, try this air fryer chicken thighs recipe!

Did you make this recipe? Mention @platingsandpairings or tag #platingsandpairings!

Equipment

Air Fryer

Nutrition

Note: This recipe was adjusted in January 2023 to change the amount of salt.