Air Fryer Chicken Breast Recipe
This Air Fryer Chicken Breast recipe is a simple, healthy, and flavorful way to prepare juicy chicken breasts with a perfectly crispy outside. The chicken is brined for tenderness, seasoned with a blend of spices including smoked paprika and cayenne pepper for a mild kick, then air fried to golden perfection. A convenient and quick method for weeknight dinners, with an alternate oven skillet method included.
- Prep Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (air fryer) or 12 minutes (oven skillet)
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Chicken Brine
- 6 cups lukewarm water
- 1/4 cup Diamond Crystal kosher salt
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 small boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
- Olive oil spray
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more for brine)
- 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken breasts: Pound the thicker end of the chicken breasts so that both sides are even in thickness, ensuring even cooking.
- Brine the chicken: In a large bowl, dissolve 1/4 cup kosher salt in 6 cups lukewarm water. Submerge the chicken breasts in the brine and refrigerate for 1 to 1 1/2 hours. After brining, remove the chicken, pat dry thoroughly with paper towels, and discard the brine.
- Season the chicken: In a small bowl, mix 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt with garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Lightly spritz the chicken breasts with olive oil spray, then rub the spice mixture evenly all over the chicken.
- Air fry the chicken: Place the chicken breasts into the air fryer basket in a single layer (air fry in batches if needed). Air fry at 380°F for 5 minutes on each side, totaling 10 minutes, until the outside is browned and the inside is cooked through.
- Alternate oven skillet method: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Heat an oven-safe or cast iron skillet over high heat for 5 minutes until very hot. Sear the chicken breasts for 1 minute on each side in the skillet. Then transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the chicken is no longer pink in the center and juices run clear. Use a food thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 165°F (73.9°C).
Notes
- Use Diamond Crystal kosher salt specifically for brining, as its coarser grain affects the salinity level.
- Larger chicken breasts may require additional cooking time if air frying; add 2-3 minutes per side and confirm internal temperature.
- Patting the chicken dry after brining is essential for seasoning adherence and browning.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure perfect doneness and avoid undercooked chicken.
Find it online: https://lauracooks.com/air-fryer-chicken-breast-recipe/