This juicy Air Fryer Chicken Breast recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights, delivering restaurant-quality results in just 25 minutes. With only 276 calories and a whopping 48g of protein per serving, it’s the perfect choice for health-conscious food lovers. The air fryer works its magic to create a perfectly cooked, tender interior while maintaining a deliciously seasoned exterior – all with minimal oil and maximum flavor.
Essential Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts: 4 pieces of boneless breasts, ensure they’re similar in size for even cooking
- Garlic Powder: 1.5 teaspoons for that perfect savory flavor
- Smoked Paprika: 1 teaspoon to add a wonderful smoky depth
- Dried Oregano: 1.5 teaspoons for aromatic Mediterranean touch
- Cornstarch: 1.5 tablespoons to achieve that golden, crispy exterior
- Oil: Just enough for coating to ensure spices stick well
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
- Prep Work: Trim any excess fat from chicken breasts for a leaner result
- Seasoning Mix: Combine garlic powder, smoked paprika, oregano, and cornstarch in a bowl
- Oil Coating: Brush chicken breasts with a light layer of oil for better spice adhesion
- Season: Generously coat each piece with the prepared spice mixture
- Basket Prep: Line air fryer basket with parchment or foil, then place seasoned chicken
- Air Frying: Cook at 350°F for 16-18 minutes, flipping halfway through
- Temperature Check: Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F in thickest part
- Resting: Let chicken rest 5 minutes before slicing for optimal juiciness
Cooking Techniques
The air fryer makes cooking chicken breasts so simple! The cornstarch coating is a clever trick that helps create a nice outer texture while keeping the inside juicy. When you flip the chicken halfway through cooking, use tongs to handle it gently. If your chicken breasts are different sizes, the larger ones might need an extra minute or two – just keep an eye on that internal temperature of 165°F.
Variations & Substitutions
Want to switch things up? Try these easy swaps:
- Replace smoked paprika with regular paprika or chili powder
- Skip the cornstarch if you don’t have any (though it helps create a better crust)
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat
- Use Italian seasoning instead of just oregano
- Try chicken tenders instead of full breasts (reduce cooking time to 12-14 minutes)
Serving Suggestions
This chicken is super versatile! Slice it up for:
- A fresh green salad
- Sandwiches or wraps
- Rice bowls with steamed veggies
- Pasta dishes
- Meal prep containers with your favorite sides Add a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving to brighten up the flavors!
Storage Tips
Let your chicken cool completely before storing. Pop it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the chicken first – it’ll warm up more evenly. A quick 30-second zap in the microwave works great, or warm it in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes to keep the outside crispy.
Air Fryer Chicken Breast
Equipment
- Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts boneless
- 1.5 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1.5 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1.5 tablespoons cornstarch
- oil
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken breasts by trimming off any excess fat and unwanted pieces.
- Mix the spices and cornstarch together in a bowl.
- Coat the chicken breasts with oil or cooking spray.
- Sprinkle the spice & cornstarch mixture on the chicken.
- Place a piece of parchment or foil in the bottom of your air fryer basket. Place the chicken on top of that.
- Air fry the chicken for 16-18 minutes at 350°F/177°C, flipping the chicken breasts halfway through. Cook until the internal temperature in the thickest part of the chicken reaches a minimum of 165°F/74°C.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing & plating.
