Air Fryer Chicken Breasts.

Equipment

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Meat thermometer
• Tongs

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the seasoning stick and promotes better browning during cooking.
2. If the chicken breasts are very thick on one end, gently pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This helps them cook evenly.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

1. In a small bowl, combine:
2. Garlic powder
3. Onion powder
4. Paprika
5. Italian seasoning
6. Salt
7. Black pepper
8. Smoked paprika (if using)
9. Cayenne pepper (if using)
10. Rub the olive oil evenly over each chicken breast. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture generously over both sides of the chicken and rub it in to ensure complete coverage.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3 minutes.
2. Preheating ensures even cooking and helps create a lightly crisp exterior.

Step 4: Arrange the Chicken

1. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overlap them. Leave a little space between each piece so the hot air can circulate properly.
2. If necessary, cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.

Step 5: Air Fry

1. Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 15-18 minutes.
2. Halfway through cooking, around the 8-minute mark, open the air fryer and flip the chicken breasts using tongs.
3. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the chicken and the model of your air fryer.

Step 6: Check Temperature

1. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast.
2. The internal temperature should reach:
3. 165°F (74°C)
4. Once the chicken reaches the safe temperature, remove it immediately to prevent overcooking.

Step 7: Rest Before Serving

1. Transfer the cooked chicken breasts to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes.
2. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken breast.

Nutrition

Calories: 245 · Protein: 38g · Fat: 9g · Carbohydrates: 2g · Saturated Fat: 1.5g · Fiber: 0.5g · Sugar: 0g · Sodium: 680mg