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Air Fryer Juicy Chicken Breasts

This recipe features chicken breasts cooked in an air fryer to achieve a crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior. The process involves simple seasoning and air frying, resulting in a visually appealing, golden-brown crust with moist meat inside. It’s a quick, reliable method perfect for weeknights or when you want flavorful protein with minimal fuss.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces chicken breasts skinless, boneless
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • to taste salt preferably sea salt
  • to taste black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried herbs herbs (thyme, rosemary, or chili flakes) optional, for added flavor
  • 1 lemon lemon for squeezing over cooked chicken

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Meat thermometer
  • Basting brush
  • Tongs
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) and gather all ingredients.
  2. Pat dry each chicken breast thoroughly with paper towels; this removes excess moisture to help achieve a crispy crust.
  3. Using a basting brush, lightly coat each chicken breast with olive oil, ensuring an even layer that promotes browning.
  4. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and your choice of herbs generously over both sides of each chicken breast for flavor.
  5. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not touch to allow even cooking.
  6. Cook the chicken for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the exterior is golden brown and a meat thermometer reads 75°C (165°F) in the thickest part.
  7. Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts carefully with tongs and let them rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
  8. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the rested chicken to brighten the flavors and add a touch of acidity.
  9. Slice the chicken against the grain into strips or serve whole, enjoying the crispy crust and juicy interior.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice and garlic for 30 minutes before air frying. Adjust cooking time based on thickness of the breasts for perfect juiciness.