Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Breasts

Air frying has revolutionized the way we cook by allowing us to enjoy our favorite fried foods with significantly less fat and calories. Traditional frying methods can involve submerging food in oil, leading to high-calorie counts and unhealthy eating habits. Air frying, however, utilizes hot air circulation to cook food, resulting in lower fat content compared to traditional frying methods. This makes air frying a healthier alternative while still delivering that beloved crispy texture.

Discover the joy of cooking with this perfectly juicy air fryer chicken breasts recipe. Air fryers make it easy to create flavorful and tender chicken while using less fat than traditional frying. Learn how to select the right ingredients, prepare a tasty marinade, and master cooking techniques for an effortless weeknight meal. Each bite promises a delightful combination of juiciness and crispiness, making every dinner a culinary success.

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Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon dried oregano

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a kick)

Juice of 1 lemon

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prep the Chicken: Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps to get that perfectly crispy exterior.

Make the Marinade: In a medium bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), and lemon juice. Stir well to combine.

Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the bowl with the marinade and coat them generously. Make sure each piece is well-covered. For best results, let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.

Preheat the Air Fryer: While the chicken is marinating, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This is key to achieving a juicy interior and crispy exterior.

Air Fry the Chicken: Once preheated, place the marinated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd the basket; if needed, cook in batches.

Cook and Flip: Air fry the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, flip the chicken breasts over and cook for an additional 7-10 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful!

Garnish and Enjoy: After resting, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with your favorite sides such as steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings