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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Breast

This dish features tender chicken breasts cooked in the air fryer to achieve a crispy, golden exterior while remaining juicy inside. The process involves seasoning, oiling, and air frying the chicken to perfection, resulting in a visually appealing and flavorful main course. The final texture offers a satisfying crunch with moist, tender meat that’s perfect for quick, healthy meals.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces chicken breasts skinless and boneless
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil helps spices stick and crisp the exterior
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika smoked or sweet
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest optional for brightness
  • 1 teaspoon fresh or dried herbs such as thyme or rosemary

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Meat thermometer
  • Paper towels
  • Tongs

Method
 

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) to ensure it's hot and ready.
  2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels until they feel firm and no longer moist, which helps them crisp up nicely.
  3. Rub each chicken breast with a little olive oil, coating all sides evenly to promote browning and help the spices adhere.
  4. In a small bowl, mix together salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, lemon zest, and herbs, then sprinkle generously over both sides of the chicken breasts.
  5. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, arranging them with space around each piece for even cooking.
  6. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken develops a golden crust and reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).
  7. Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the air fryer using tongs and check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer for safety.
  8. Let the chicken rest on a plate for 5 minutes; this helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.
  9. Squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over the chicken or serve with your favorite sauce for added brightness and flavor.
  10. Slice the chicken and serve immediately for a crispy, juicy, and flavorful main course.