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Basic Air Fryer Chicken Breast {Perfect Every Time!} Recipe

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3.8 from 3 reviews

This Basic Air Fryer Chicken Breast recipe delivers perfectly cooked, juicy, and flavorful chicken every time using an air fryer. The chicken breasts are cut thinly for quick cooking and coated in a savory blend of paprika, brown sugar, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper, making this a simple yet delicious meal suitable for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 650 g Chicken breast (approx 4 pieces, sliced in half lengthways to make 8 thin fillets)

Coating Spice Mix

  • 6 tsp Paprika
  • 6 tsp Dark brown sugar
  • 4 tsp Garlic granules
  • 3 tsp Dried oregano
  • 1 tsp Sea salt
  • 1/2 tsp Freshly ground black pepper

Others

  • Oil spray for basket

Instructions

  1. Preheat Air Fryer: Start by preheating your air fryer to 200℃ (400°F) while you prepare the chicken to ensure an even cooking environment once the chicken is ready.
  2. Slice Chicken: Cut each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create two thin fillets per breast, which enables faster, more even cooking and better spice adherence.
  3. Mix and Coat Spices: In a bowl, combine paprika, dark brown sugar, garlic granules, dried oregano, sea salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken fillets to the bowl and toss thoroughly to coat each piece evenly with the spice mixture.
  4. Prepare Air Fryer Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking and to help achieve a crispy exterior on the chicken.
  5. Air Fry Chicken: Arrange the coated chicken fillets in a single layer inside the basket without overlapping. Cook for 10-15 minutes, turning the fillets halfway through the cooking time. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 75℃ (165°F) for safe consumption.

Notes

  • Cutting the chicken breast thinly ensures quicker cooking and more even spice coating.
  • Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to avoid undercooking or drying out the chicken.
  • If your air fryer basket is small, cook the chicken in batches to prevent overcrowding.
  • Feel free to adjust the spice seasoning to taste, such as adding chili powder for heat or substituting herbs.
  • Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking for juicier results.