Easy Air Fryer Chicken Breast Recipe

Easy Air Fryer Chicken Breast Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 (8 ounce) chicken breast
  • 2 teaspoons olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, or to taste
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Directions

  1. Gather all ingredients.
  2. Preheat an air fryer to 360F (182C).
  3. Brush both sides of the chicken breast with olive oil.
  4. Season one side of the chicken breast with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  5. Place the chicken breast, seasoned-side down, into the air fryer basket. Then sprinkle the other side with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  6. Cook in the preheated air fryer for 9 minutes.
  7. Flip the chicken breast and continue cooking for an additional 9 minutes, or until the center is no longer pink and the juices run clear. The internal temperature should read at least 165F (74C) on an instant-read thermometer.
  8. Transfer the chicken breast to a plate and loosely cover it with aluminum foil.
  9. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient Amount % Daily Value*
Calories 456
Total Fat 17g 22%
Saturated Fat 4g 18%
Cholesterol 193mg 64%
Sodium 168mg 7%
Total Carbohydrate 1g 0%
Dietary Fiber 0g 0%
Total Sugars 0g
Protein 70g 141%
Vitamin C 0mg 0%
Calcium 35mg 3%
Iron 2mg 14%
Potassium 590mg 13%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

Easy Air Fryer Chicken Breast Recipe

Easy Air Fryer Chicken Breast

Easy Air Fryer Chicken Breast is a simple yet delicious recipe that uses the modern convenience of an air fryer to make a perfectly cooked, juicy, and tender chicken breast. With a few simple ingredients like olive oil, garlic powder, and salt, you can create a meal that's both flavorful and healthy in just 30 minutes.

Origin and History

The concept of air frying was introduced as a healthier alternative to deep-frying. The air fryer uses circulating hot air to cook food, resulting in a crispy texture similar to that of fried food, but with much less oil. The air fryer itself became popular in the 2010s, with many home cooks adopting it as a versatile kitchen tool. The Easy Air Fryer Chicken Breast recipe follows this trend by offering a straightforward, quick way to prepare chicken without deep-frying, reducing fat content while retaining taste and moisture.

Regional Variations

While the air fryer is a relatively new kitchen appliance, chicken breast is a staple in many cuisines worldwide. In American cooking, chicken breasts are commonly grilled, baked, or fried, and this air fryer version is just another approach to achieving a deliciously tender result. In the southern United States, fried chicken is a beloved dish, but with health-conscious trends, air frying has become an appealing option to cut down on oil and fat. Other countries, like Japan and Korea, have also embraced air frying, applying local spices and marinades to chicken breasts.

How It Differs From Similar Dishes

What sets the Easy Air Fryer Chicken Breast apart from similar dishes is its use of the air fryer. Unlike traditional grilling or pan-frying, which require constant monitoring, the air fryer provides a hands-off cooking method. The result is a beautifully golden and crispy exterior while keeping the chicken moist inside. Compared to baked chicken, which may require longer cooking times and can sometimes dry out, the air fryer offers faster cooking times and even heat distribution.

Where Its Typically Served

This dish is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of settings. Its perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a healthy meal prep option, or a low-fat dish for family gatherings. The air fryer chicken breast pairs well with vegetables, rice, salads, or even in sandwiches and wraps. Its especially popular among those looking to cut down on oil consumption without compromising on flavor.

Fun Facts About Air Frying and Chicken Breasts

Did you know that the air fryer was invented in 2010 by a company called Philips? It quickly became a household favorite because it cooks food faster than an oven and uses less fat than traditional frying methods. In fact, some air fryer enthusiasts report using it for everything from vegetables to desserts!

Additionally, chicken breasts are one of the most popular cuts of poultry due to their versatility, low fat content, and ability to absorb a wide range of seasonings and marinades. They are also among the most consumed proteins in the United States, often found in everything from salads to casseroles.

Conclusion

Whether youre new to air frying or a seasoned pro, this Easy Air Fryer Chicken Breast recipe is a must-try. Its simple, healthy, and delivers mouthwatering results every time. The ease of preparation and versatility of serving options make it a perfect choice for busy cooks or anyone looking to enjoy a delicious meal without the fuss.

FAQ about Easy Air Fryer Chicken Breast Recipe

Yes, you can store the cooked chicken breast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use the air fryer, oven, or microwave.

To reheat, place the chicken breast in the air fryer at 360°F (182°C) for 4-5 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also use the microwave or an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but they should be thawed before cooking to ensure even cooking. You can thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.

If the chicken breast is overcooked and dry, you can try adding a sauce or serving it with a side that includes moisture, like a creamy dip or sauce. For future cooking, make sure to check the internal temperature regularly, aiming for 165°F (74°C) to avoid overcooking.

Yes, you can marinate the chicken before cooking. For best results, marinate it for 30 minutes to 2 hours in the fridge. This will enhance the flavor and juiciness of the chicken.

If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, grilling or pan-frying the chicken works well too.

Yes, you can use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. They will require a slightly different cooking time, usually about 12-15 minutes in the air fryer, depending on their size.

This chicken pairs well with a variety of sides, including roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or rice. For a low-carb option, try serving it with steamed broccoli or a cauliflower mash.

To keep the chicken breast juicy, avoid overcooking it. Make sure to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to reach 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.

Yes, feel free to experiment with different seasonings! You can use paprika, onion powder, Italian seasoning, or even a lemon-herb blend. The possibilities are endless, depending on your flavor preferences.

Comments

Deb C

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

This recipe is so quick and easy. I seasoned the chicken breast on both sides and then lightly pounded it so that it would be an even thickness which reduced the baking time by a couple of minutes. The chicken breast was delicious and moist.

SadYolk4168

09/10/2025 03:23:54 PM

This is basically my "go to" chicken breast recipe. Usually I'll add some onion powder and lemon juice to the mix. My air fryer died, and the oven makes the kitchen extra warm, so I commonly hit the grill and throw some fresh veggies on with it. I especially enjoy it that way.

SmartHoney5971

02/20/2025 01:47:08 PM

I let the chicken marinate for a couple of hours and I used Sazon Completa for the seasoning. Came out awesome. Will definitely do it again.

LovesCooking

01/13/2025 04:11:09 AM

This recipe is awesome. It’s super easy to make and it turns out amazing each time. Very convenient for big parties as well. I recommend getting air chilled chicken without any retained water and the result is consistently delicious.

Jennifer Cox

11/19/2024 05:59:10 PM

I used mesquite marinated checked breast

TimidFork4271

09/10/2025 04:54:30 PM

its a classic- for those who complained about the amount of ingredients. usually salt and pepper arent "counted" as ingredients, since they are ubiquitous-

Cecilia

09/10/2025 03:59:08 PM

Yum

Tinkcandance

05/09/2025 03:38:51 AM

Worked liked a charm!

Charles Thompson

04/17/2025 02:56:53 PM

So easy, yet tastes gourmet.

Edward Robinson

03/23/2025 01:45:51 AM

My friends were blown away.

Virginia Jones

03/22/2025 08:51:41 PM

Quick, easy, and delicious — what more could I ask for?

EIng

03/16/2025 08:49:23 PM

We really enjoyed it. I've made it a couple of times just so we could use for cold chicken sandwiches.

CyanSole7707

03/01/2025 11:07:22 PM

How easy can a great result be when cooking with chicken? Thank you!

Thomas Hernandez

02/24/2025 11:10:28 PM

Made it last night — still thinking about it.