Description
Learn how to make delicious and juicy air fryer chicken breasts with this easy recipe. Perfect for a quick and healthy meal option.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (500g)
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (2.5g)
- 2 teaspoons vegetable oil (10ml)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (2g)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (1g)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (1g)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper (0.5g)
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts on a chopping board and cover them with a large piece of plastic wrap. Use a rolling pin, meat tenderizer, or your hand to gently flatten them to an even thickness.
- For Dry Brining*: Set the chicken on a plate and sprinkle evenly with sea salt. Keep it uncovered in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or up to a whole day—if you choose to skip dry brining, you can move on to the next step.
- When you’re ready to use the air fryer, take the chicken out of the fridge and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
- In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and ground black pepper (if you skipped dry brining, add the salt now).
- Put the chicken in a large bowl, pour the vegetable oil over it, and sprinkle the spice mix on top. Toss the chicken to ensure the spices are evenly distributed on both sides.
- Set the air fryer to 375 degrees F to preheat (mine takes 3 minutes to reach temperature). Place the chicken with the smoother side facing down in the air fryer and cook for 6 minutes.
- Using tongs, carefully lift the air fryer basket and flip the chicken over. Keep cooking until the chicken’s internal temperature reads between 155 and 160 degrees F, which should take an additional 2 to 8 minutes. While chicken is safe to eat at 165 degrees F, I prefer to remove it a few degrees earlier and let the residual heat finish cooking it. The total cooking time will vary depending on your air fryer model and the size of the chicken. Smaller pieces (around 6 ounces each) may only need about 8 minutes in total; larger pieces might require 14 minutes or more. Keep an eye on the chicken towards the end to avoid overcooking, as this will dry it out.
- Transfer the chicken to a plate. Cover it and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
Notes
- Dry brining the chicken with sea salt enhances flavor and juiciness, but it’s optional if short on time.
- Evenly distribute spices on both sides of the chicken for a well-balanced flavor.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure safe consumption at 155-160 degrees F.
