Easy Air Fryer Chicken Breasts Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you need a substitution, you can use chicken thighs for more flavor or a different cut, keeping in mind the cooking time may vary.

Olive Oil: This helps keep the chicken moist and enhances the flavor. You can swap it with avocado oil or melted butter if you prefer.

Seasonings: Garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning bring great taste. If you’re missing something, feel free to get creative with your favorite spices like cayenne for heat or lemon zest for freshness.

Brussels Sprouts: These add a great side! Don’t have them? You can use other vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or bell peppers. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

How Do You Ensure the Chicken is Juicy and Cooked Perfectly?

Cooking chicken in an air fryer is quick, but getting it juicy can be tricky. Here are some tips to ensure success:

• Preheat your air fryer! This helps cook the chicken evenly.
• Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the chicken.
• Let the chicken rest after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute for a moister bite.

Following these tips will help you enjoy perfectly cooked chicken every time!

Easy Air Fryer Chicken Breasts

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved (optional, for cooking with chicken)
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for the Brussels sprouts)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 5 minutes for prep, 18-20 minutes of cooking time in the air fryer, and an additional 3-5 minutes for the chicken to rest. In total, you can expect to spend around 30 minutes for a delicious meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat Your Air Fryer:

Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your chicken will cook evenly and get that lovely golden color.

2. Prepare the Chicken:

While the air fryer is heating up, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the seasoning stick better!

3. Mix the Seasonings:

In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good stir to mix everything together.

4. Season the Chicken:

Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil on all sides. Then, sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken. Press lightly to ensure the seasonings adhere well.

5. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts (if using):

If you want to cook Brussels sprouts alongside the chicken, toss the halved sprouts in a bowl with a bit of olive oil, salt, and grated Parmesan cheese.

6. Arrange in the Air Fryer:

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket. If you’re using Brussels sprouts, arrange them around the chicken in the basket.

7. Cook the Chicken:

Close the air fryer and cook for 18-20 minutes. Make sure to flip the chicken halfway through. Check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.

8. Let it Rest:

When done, carefully remove the chicken and Brussels sprouts from the air fryer. Let the chicken rest for about 3-5 minutes before slicing or serving.

9. Serve and Enjoy:

Garnish the chicken with chopped fresh parsley if you like. Enjoy your juicy, flavorful air fryer chicken breasts with perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts!

Bon appétit!

FAQ for Easy Air Fryer Chicken Breasts Recipe

Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just make sure to thaw them first. The best way to do this is by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or putting them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging them in cold water until thawed. Pat them dry before seasoning and air frying!

How Do I Know When the Chicken is Done Cooking?

The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. Your chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. If you don’t have a thermometer, make sure the meat is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear.

Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can season the chicken breasts up to a day in advance. Keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. If you’re prepping Brussels sprouts, toss them in oil and seasonings just before cooking for the best results.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover chicken and Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or put them back in the air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through. This will help retain their crispy texture!