Air Fryer Chicken Breast

Air Fryer Chicken Breast Recipe

This recipe provides instructions for both breaded and unbreaded versions of air-fried chicken breasts.

Ingredients:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin cutlets (about ½-inch thick)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil, canola oil, or vegetable oil
• For the Breaded Version:
  • ½ cup (25g) dried bread crumbs
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon dried chili powder
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
• For both versions:
  • Additional seasonings of your choice (optional)

Instructions:

Breaded Version:

1. Place the chicken breasts in a bowl and drizzle with oil. Toss to coat evenly.
2. In a shallow dish, combine the bread crumbs with the paprika, chili powder, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt. Mix well.
3. Dredge each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture, coating completely.
4. Place the breaded chicken breasts in a single layer in your air fryer basket.

Air Frying:

1. Set the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) and cook for 10-12 minutes.
2. After 7 minutes, open the air fryer and carefully flip the chicken breasts using tongs.
3. Continue cooking for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts.

Unbreaded Version:

1. Drizzle the chicken breasts with oil and season with your favorite seasonings.
2. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, breast side down.

Air Frying:

1. Set the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) and cook for 12-15 minutes.
2. After 7-8 minutes, open the air fryer and carefully flip the chicken breasts using tongs.
3. Continue cooking for an additional 4-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.

General Tips:

• Brining (optional): For extra juicy chicken, brine the chicken breasts in a solution of 2 tablespoons salt dissolved in 2 cups lukewarm water for at least 15 minutes, or up to 6 hours in the refrigerator. Rinse and pat dry before cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the basket: Cook the chicken breasts in batches if necessary to ensure even crisping.
• Preheating: Most air fryers don’t require preheating. Simply set the temperature and timer.
• Flipping: Flip or shake the basket occasionally for even cooking.
• Internal temperature: Always check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
• Storing leftovers: Store leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Enjoy your delicious air-fried chicken breasts!