Go Back
+ servings
air fryer chicken breast copycat recipe

Air Fryer Chicken Breast

When it comes to easy weeknight dinners, few things beat the simplicity and deliciousness of air fryer chicken breast. Whether you're enjoying it alongside fresh salads, grains, or roasted vegetable.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 230

Ingredients
  

The Spices
  • 1 ½ teaspoons light brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  • ¾ teaspoon fine table salt I prefer Morton for an even coating
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme optional, for a herbal hint
The Chicken
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (up to 1.5 pounds if desired)
  • 2 teaspoons avocado oil
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper optional for added seasoning

Equipment

  • Bowls

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
  1. Start by taking your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and pat them dry with a paper towel. This will help them crisp up nicely in the air fryer. If necessary, slice them into even pieces to ensure uniform cooking.
Step 2: Mix Spices
  1. In a medium bowl, combine the spices. The brown sugar lends a slight sweetness, balancing the paprika’s smokiness. I recommend whisking it thoroughly to make sure everything integrates well.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
  1. Drizzle the avocado oil over the chicken. This will help the spices stick and promote browning. Then, sprinkle your spice mix over the chicken, making sure to coat every piece evenly. Trust me, you want all that flavor to stick!
Step 4: Preheat Your Air Fryer
  1. While you’re working on the chicken, preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). This will create a hot environment right when the chicken hits the basket, giving it that crisp we're after.
Step 5: Air Fry the Chicken
  1. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding—this ensures maximum crispy goodness. Cook for about 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through. They’re ready when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Step 6: Let it Rest
  1. Once cooked, allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes. This step is vital. Letting the meat sit allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender bites.

Nutrition

Calories: 230kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 42gFat: 6g

Notes

  • Brine for Moisture: Soaking chicken in a simple brine (water and salt) for a few hours can lead to even juicier results.
  • Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t be shy! Try your favorite spice blends to change up the flavors each time.
  • Use a Meat Thermometer: This is a game-changer to ensure that your chicken reaches the perfect doneness without overcooking.
  • Do Not Overcrowd the Basket: If you pile too much in, you’ll lose airflow, and the chicken won’t crisp up nicely.
  • Store Properly: Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!