Chicken breasts in an air fryer

Equipment

• Air fryer
• Small mixing bowl (for seasoning blend)
• Meat thermometer
• Tongs
• Cutting board and chef’s knife

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 6 to 8 ounces each, similar thickness for even cooking)
• 1.5 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Prep and Dry the Chicken

1. Remove the chicken breasts from the refrigerator and pat them completely dry on all sides using clean paper towels. Removing surface moisture is crucial because it allows the oil and spices to adhere evenly and helps achieve a better sear.
2. Trim any excess fat or unwanted cartilage from the chicken breasts using a sharp chef’s knife. If your chicken breasts vary drastically in thickness, gently pound the thicker end with a meat mallet so that the entire cut has a uniform thickness, ensuring even cooking.

Step 2: Mix the Seasoning Blend

1. In a small mixing bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Stir well to ensure all the individual spices are thoroughly integrated.

Step 3: Oil and Season the Chicken

1. Rub the olive oil or avocado oil evenly over all sides of each chicken breast, ensuring a light, complete coating.
2. Sprinkle the seasoning blend generously over the chicken breasts, using your hands to gently rub and press the spices directly into the meat so they stick firmly.

Step 4: Pre-heat the Air Fryer

1. Turn on your air fryer and preheat it to 380°F (193°C) for about 3 to 5 minutes. Preheating ensures the chicken starts cooking immediately upon contact, which helps seal in the juices.

Step 5: Air Fry the Chicken

1. Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer inside the preheated air fryer basket, leaving a small amount of space between each piece for proper air circulation. Do not overcrowd the basket; cook in two batches if necessary.
2. Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 14 to 18 minutes total (depending on the exact thickness of your chicken breasts).
3. Halfway through the cooking time (around the 8-minute mark), use a pair of tongs to carefully flip the chicken breasts over to ensure even browning and texture.

Step 6: Check for Doneness

1. Insert a reliable digital meat thermometer into the thickest part of the largest chicken breast. The internal temperature must reach a safe minimum of 165°F (74°C) .
2. If the internal temperature is below 165°F, continue cooking for 2-3 minute intervals until the target temperature is safely achieved.

Step 7: Rest and Slice

1. Transfer the cooked chicken breasts from the air fryer basket to a clean cutting board or a warm serving platter.
2. Let the chicken rest undisturbed for 5 to 7 minutes . Resting allows the internal muscle fibers to relax and redistribute the savory juices throughout the meat; slicing immediately will cause the juices to escape, resulting in dry chicken.
3. Slice against the grain into clean medallions and serve warm.

Nutrition

Calories: 220 kcal · Protein: 36 g · Fat: 7 g Saturated Fat: 1 g · Carbohydrates: 1.5 g Dietary · Saturated Fat: 1 g · Fiber: * 0.5 g · Sugar: 0 g · Sodium: 620 mg