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Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Breast

This dish features tender, moist chicken breasts cooked quickly in an air fryer, resulting in a crispy exterior and juicy interior. The process involves seasoning, preheating, and precise cooking to achieve a perfectly cooked, flavorful chicken with minimal effort and cleanup.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 16 minutes
Total Time 26 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pieces chicken breasts skinless, boneless
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil helps seasoning adhere and promotes browning
  • 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground if possible
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika adds smoky flavor and color

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Kitchen thermometer
  • Paper towels
  • Tongs

Method
 

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F).
  2. Pat the chicken breasts dry thoroughly with paper towels. This step ensures the seasoning sticks and helps achieve a crispy exterior.
  3. Rub the chicken breasts all over with olive oil, coating evenly to help spices adhere and promote browning.
  4. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika generously over both sides of the chicken, pressing lightly to help the spices stick.
  5. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, leaving space around each piece for air to circulate freely.
  6. Cook for 10 minutes, then carefully flip each chicken breast using tongs to ensure even cooking and browning.
  7. Continue cooking for another 6-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) and the exterior is golden and slightly crispy.
  8. Check the internal temperature with a kitchen thermometer, ensuring the chicken is juicy and fully cooked.
  9. Remove the chicken breasts from the air fryer and let them rest for about 5 minutes to lock in juices.
  10. Slice the chicken against the grain and serve immediately for a tender, flavorful, and crispy outside bite.

Notes

For extra flavor, sprinkle fresh herbs or add a squeeze of lemon before serving. Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of the chicken breasts to prevent overcooking.