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Healthy Air Fryer Chicken Breast – Juicy, Quick, and Foolproof

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6–8 oz each, about 1-inch thick)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon chili powder or cayenne for heat
  • Optional to serve: lemon wedges and chopped fresh parsley

Method
 

  1. Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If one side is much thicker, gently pound to an even 3/4–1 inch so they cook evenly.
  2. Season generously: In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme. Rub the chicken with oil, then coat all sides with the seasoning blend.
  3. Preheat the air fryer: Set to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes. A hot basket helps you get a light crust.
  4. Arrange in the basket: Place breasts in a single layer with space between them. Don’t stack.
  5. Air fry: Cook for 8–10 minutes, flip, then cook 4–8 minutes more. Target internal temperature: 160–165°F (71–74°C) at the thickest point.
  6. Rest: Transfer to a plate and rest 5 minutes. This lets the juices redistribute for extra tenderness.
  7. Finish and serve: Squeeze with lemon and sprinkle parsley if you like. Slice against the grain for the juiciest bites.