Easy Air Fryer Chicken Breast (Juicy & Flavorful!)
Need a quick, healthy chicken recipe for busy nights? This easy air fryer chicken breast comes out juicy, tender, and packed with smoky flavor—ready in just 8 minutes! Perfect for salads, wraps, or as a main dish the whole family will love.
Why This Easy Air Fryer Chicken Breast is the Best
- Ready in Minutes: From fridge to table in under 15 minutes.
- Incredibly Juicy: Air frying locks in moisture for perfect chicken every time.
- Versatile: Use as your main protein, or slice for salads, wraps, and meal prep.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 small boneless, skinless chicken breasts (4–6 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Tip: Smoked paprika gives this recipe a deep, smoky flavor. If you only have regular paprika, add a drop of liquid smoke for best results.
How to Make Easy Air Fryer Chicken Breast
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat chicken dry with paper towels for best browning.
- Rub chicken with oil to help the seasoning stick and keep the meat juicy.
- Mix spices in a small bowl, then coat both sides of each chicken breast generously.
- Arrange chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket—don’t overcrowd.
- Cook for 4 minutes, flip, then cook another 4 minutes for small breasts. Adjust time for larger pieces (see below).
- Check doneness with a meat thermometer (165°F/74°C).
- Rest 2–3 minutes before slicing to lock in juices.
Cooking Time by Chicken Size
- Small (4–6 oz): 8 minutes total
- Medium (8–10 oz): 9–10 minutes
- Large (11+ oz): 12–14 minutes
Always verify with a thermometer!
Pro Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken
- Don’t skip patting chicken dry—it helps get that flavorful exterior.
- Give space in the basket for even air circulation. Cook in batches if needed.
- Let chicken rest before cutting to keep every bite juicy.
Storage & Meal Prep
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Cool, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Air fry at 350°F for 2–3 minutes for best texture, or microwave with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
Additions & Substitutions
Add for More Flavor:
- ½ tsp garlic powder to the spice blend
- ¼ tsp cayenne for a spicy kick
- Squeeze of fresh lemon juice after cooking
Swap Ingredients:
- Use chicken tenders (cook only 6 minutes total)
- Swap olive oil for melted butter for a richer taste
- If you only have regular paprika, add a little liquid smoke
FAQs: Easy Air Fryer Chicken Breast
How long do I cook thick chicken breasts?
Larger breasts need 12–14 minutes. Pound to an even thickness for best results.
Can I use different spices?
Yes! Try adding turmeric, oregano, thyme, or rosemary for new flavors and extra health benefits.
How do I meal prep with this recipe?
Cook a double batch, cool, and portion into containers with sides like quinoa or roasted veggies. Refrigerate or freeze as needed.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Chicken Breast
This simple chicken breast goes with everything! Serve with:
- A crisp green salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Fluffy quinoa or rice
- Sliced in wraps, pitas, or on top of pasta
Tried this recipe? Please leave a comment or tag me on Instagram—your feedback helps me create more easy, healthy recipes!
Printed Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
Chicken & Oil
- 4 small chicken breasts (4–6 oz each)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Spice Rub
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 200 °C (400 °F). Pat chicken breasts very dry.
- In a bowl, coat chicken with olive oil.
- Mix smoked paprika, cumin, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub spice blend all over chicken. Let rest 0–10 minutes.
- Place chicken breasts in air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook 4 minutes.
- Flip chicken, cook another 4 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 74 °C (165 °F).
- Remove and let rest briefly before slicing or serving.
