Air Fryer Chicken Breast Recipe

Air Fryer Chicken Breast Recipe

Quick Answer

Season chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Place in air fryer basket (don't overcrowd). Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Rest 5 minutes before slicing.

By RecipesQueen Kitchen • June 14, 2026

Prep: 5 min
Cook: 18 min
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy
air-fryergluten-freelow-carbhigh-protein
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Juicy, tender chicken breast in the air fryer — no more dry chicken. Ready in 18 minutes.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. 1

    Pound chicken breasts to even thickness (about 3/4 inch) for even cooking.

  2. 2

    Brush with olive oil. Mix all seasonings and coat both sides.

  3. 3

    Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.

  4. 4

    Place chicken in a single layer (don't stack). Cook 10 minutes.

  5. 5

    Flip and cook 6-8 more minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

  6. 6

    Rest 5 minutes before slicing. The juices will redistribute.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

440
Calories
43g
Protein
19g
Fat
34g
Carbs
4g
Fiber
6g
Sugar
619mg
Sodium

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to flip chicken in the air fryer?

Yes — flip halfway through cooking for even browning on both sides. If your chicken is thin (pounded to even thickness), you may not need to flip, but it helps.

Why is my air fryer chicken dry?

Most common reason: overcooking. Use an instant-read thermometer and pull the chicken at 162°F. Also, don't skip the oil — a light coating of olive oil helps retain moisture and promotes browning.

Can I cook frozen chicken in an air fryer?

Yes, but add 5-7 extra minutes. Cook at 360°F for 15 minutes, then increase to 375°F for the final 5-7 minutes. Always verify internal temperature reaches 165°F.

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