Wondering how to turn rock-solid frozen chicken breasts into a juicy, perfectly cooked meal? Your air fryer is the answer! This 22-minute method delivers tender, protein-packed chicken (36g per serving) with just 227 calories and minimal prep work.
Perfect for busy weeknights when you’ve forgotten to thaw dinner, this foolproof technique ensures restaurant-quality results every time. Say goodbye to waiting hours for chicken to defrost and hello to a convenient, healthy main dish.
Essential Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts: 1.5 lbs frozen, boneless and skinless (3-4 pieces)
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon, helps create a delicious crust
- Seasoning Mix:
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Fresh Parsley: 1 tablespoon chopped, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place frozen chicken breasts in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil until well-coated
- Season: Mix all spices in a separate bowl, then sprinkle evenly over the chicken, ensuring complete coverage
- Arrange: Place chicken in a single layer in your air fryer basket (work in batches if needed for even cooking)
- Air Fry: Set temperature to 390°F/200°C and cook for 18-22 minutes, remembering to flip halfway through
- Check Temperature: Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety
- Rest and Serve: Allow chicken to rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving
Cooking Techniques
Air frying frozen chicken breasts is super simple! The hot air circulation helps create a nice outer crust while keeping the inside juicy. A quick flip halfway through cooking makes sure both sides get evenly browned. The oil coating isn’t just for flavor – it helps the spices stick and creates that lovely golden exterior.
Variations & Substitutions
Mix up the flavors with your favorite seasonings! Try Italian herbs like basil and oregano, or go spicy with some cayenne pepper. No olive oil? Any cooking oil works great here. For a different twist, try smoked paprika instead of regular paprika – it adds amazing flavor. If you don’t have fresh parsley, dried works too, or skip it completely.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken is so versatile! Slice it for sandwiches, dice it for salads, or serve it whole with your favorite sides. It’s amazing with roasted veggies or a fresh green salad. Want a quick meal? Put it on top of rice with some steamed broccoli. The neutral seasoning means it works with almost any sauce – try BBQ, ranch, or honey mustard!
Storage Tips
Let the chicken cool completely before storing. Pop it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Want to save it longer? Cut it into pieces, wrap well, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, warm it gently in the microwave or air fryer to keep it juicy.
Cooking Frozen Chicken Breast in the Air Fryer
Equipment
- Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs frozen chicken breasts boneless and skinless about 3-4 chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Place the frozen chicken breasts in a bowl. Cover with olive oil.
- Combine the spices in a small bowl.
- Sprinkle the spice mixture over the chicken and toss to combine.
- Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook in two batches if need be.
- Air fry at 390°F/200°C for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165F.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.
