Sometimes, the simplest meals bring the greatest comfort. This air fryer chicken breast recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a small celebration of flavor and ease all at once. It’s a straightforward way to enjoy juicy, tender chicken without the fuss of breading or complicated steps.
One evening, I was craving something wholesome but didn’t want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. The air fryer was my go-to, and I decided to try this quick chicken breast recipe. As the warm aroma of garlic and paprika filled the air, I felt a little wave of calm wash over me after a hectic day. When I finally sliced into the chicken, the juices flowed gently, and each bite was tender, flavorful, and satisfying. It was a reminder that good food doesn’t have to be complicated to feel special.
- Quick to prepare and cook, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Minimal ingredients that you likely already have on hand.
- Healthy and light, without sacrificing flavor.
- Juicy texture from the air fryer’s even cooking.
- Easy to customize with your favorite spices if you like.
Even if you’re new to using an air fryer, this recipe is forgiving and straightforward. It’s designed to take the guesswork out of cooking chicken breasts so you can enjoy a tasty, satisfying meal without stress.
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Air Fryer Chicken Breast (Without Breading)
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: 2
Description
A simple and healthy air fryer chicken breast recipe without breading. Juicy and tender chicken breasts cooked quickly in the air fryer with minimal ingredients.
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
Brush both sides of each chicken breast with olive oil.
In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap.
Cook for 9 minutes, then flip the chicken breasts over.
Continue cooking for another 9 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Remove the chicken breasts from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
FAQ
Can I double the recipe? Yes, just make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket so the chicken cooks evenly.
What if I don’t have paprika? You can substitute it with smoked paprika or a pinch of chili powder for a little extra kick.
How can I tell when the chicken is done? The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Using a meat thermometer is the best way to be sure.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts? It’s best to thaw them first for even cooking, but if pressed for time, you can increase the cooking time slightly while monitoring closely.
Ready to enjoy tender, juicy chicken that’s both simple and satisfying? Give this recipe a try and save it for your next meal inspiration.