- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-4 minutes.
- Prepare the Chicken Breasts:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
- Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness. This helps ensure the chicken cooks evenly.
- Season the Chicken:
- Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil on all sides.
- In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Generously coat the chicken breasts with the seasoning mixture, making sure to evenly cover both sides.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Ensure there is space between them for even cooking.
- Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, flip the chicken breasts over and cook for another 6-8 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken.
- The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.
- Rest the Chicken:
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy chicken.
- Serve:
- Slice the chicken breast and serve it with your favorite sides, salads, or even in sandwiches and wraps.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken:
- Don’t Skip the Resting: Letting the chicken rest after cooking prevents the juices from escaping when you cut into it, keeping it moist.
- Pound the Chicken: Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures that it cooks evenly and avoids drying out.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked without overcooking.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Chicken: Add lemon zest and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the seasoning mix for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Spicy Chicken: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning for a spicy kick.
- Parmesan Crusted Chicken: Mix grated Parmesan cheese into the seasoning for a crispy, cheesy crust.
How do you like this air fryer chicken recipe? Feel free to let me know if you’d like to explore any other variations!