Ah, the air fryer—a modern kitchen marvel that has somehow transformed my chaotic weeknight dinners into something resembling culinary masterpieces. Imagine biting into a chicken breast that’s both crispy and juicy, like a contradiction on a plate, but in the best way possible. It’s like the universe decided to give us the gift of fried food without the guilt, and I, for one, am here for it.
Steps
- Place your chicken breasts on a cutting board, cover them with plastic wrap, and gently pound them to an even thickness using a rolling pin or meat mallet.
- For a dry brine, sprinkle the chicken evenly with kosher salt and refrigerate uncovered for at least 30 minutes or up to a day.
- When ready to cook, remove the chicken from the fridge and allow it to reach room temperature for about 15 minutes.
- Mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper in a small bowl. If you didn’t dry brine, add salt to this mixture.
- Drizzle olive oil over the chicken in a large bowl, sprinkle the spice mix, and ensure the chicken is evenly coated on all sides.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees F, which typically takes about 3 minutes.
- Place the chicken smooth side down in the air fryer basket and cook for approximately 6 minutes.
- Use tongs to flip the chicken over and continue cooking until the internal temperature reads 155 to 160 degrees F, which might take an additional 2 to 8 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the air fryer, cover it, and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting period allows the carryover heat to finish cooking the chicken to the safe internal temperature of 165 degrees F. Slice and enjoy!
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts (small, around 6 ounces each)
- Olive oil
- Kosher salt
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Black pepper
- Ground cayenne pepper (optional for added spice)
Nutritional Values
Calories: 474kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 72g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 218mg | Potassium: 1340mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 1090IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 30mg | Iron: 2mg
FAQ
- How do I ensure my air fryer chicken breast stays juicy and not dry?
- The key to a juicy air fryer chicken breast is brining. A simple brine, even for just 30 minutes, allows the meat to absorb extra liquid and flavor, keeping it moist and well-seasoned. Additionally, avoid overcooking the chicken by using a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the correct internal temperature.
- Can I cook frozen chicken breasts in the air fryer?
- Yes, you can cook frozen chicken breasts in the air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 360 degrees F, drizzle the chicken with olive oil, and season as desired. Air fry the chicken for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. While it won’t be as juicy as brined chicken, it’s a great option if you forget to thaw your chicken.
- What temperature and cooking time should I use for air frying chicken breasts?
- Set the air fryer to 375 degrees F for cooking chicken breasts. The cooking time depends on the size of the breasts: small (5-7 ounces) for 7-10 minutes, medium (8-10 ounces) for 10-12 minutes, and large (11 ounces or more) for 12-16 minutes. Remember to flip the chicken halfway through.
- What are some ways to use air fryer chicken breasts in meals?
- Air fryer chicken breasts are versatile and can be used in various dishes. Add them to salads, pasta, pizzas, stir-fries, sandwiches, or wraps for a protein boost. They can also be diced and added to quiches or served on their own.
- How should I store and reheat leftover air fryer chicken breasts?
- Store leftover chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, gently warm them in the air fryer or oven at 350 degrees F. For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips
- Brining for Juiciness: Brining your chicken, even for just 30 minutes, can significantly enhance its juiciness and flavor. Opt for a dry brine by sprinkling salt on the meat, as it is less messy and helps the meat absorb extra moisture and seasoning.
- Temperature and Timing: Cook chicken breasts in the air fryer at 375°F. Smaller pieces (5-7 ounces) take about 7-10 minutes, while larger ones (11 ounces or more) may need 12-16 minutes. Flip them halfway through to ensure even cooking and use an instant-read thermometer to avoid overcooking.
- Resting for Maximum Flavor: After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the internal temperature to rise to the safe 165°F due to carryover cooking, ensuring juicy and flavorful results.
- Versatile Seasoning and Usage: Rub your chicken with a blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper for a versatile seasoning. This air fryer chicken is perfect for meal prepping and can be added to salads, wraps, or pasta dishes hot or cold.
Equipment
- Air Fryer – A high-powered countertop convection oven used for cooking the chicken.
- Instant Read Thermometer – To check the doneness of the chicken and ensure it is cooked properly.
- Non-Slip Cutting Board – For safely preparing the chicken before cooking.
