Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form a paste-like seasoning blend.
- Coat the Chicken: Pat dry the chicken breasts with paper towels. Rub the seasoning blend all over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Step 2: Air Fry the Chicken
- Cook in the Air Fryer: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space around each piece for air circulation.
- Air Fry: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. Cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of your chicken breasts. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken.
- Check for Doneness: Ensure the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear before serving.
Step 3: Serve
- Rest and Serve: Remove the air fryer ranch chicken breasts from the basket and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving.
- Enjoy: Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice. Pair with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, salad, or mashed potatoes.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Ranch Chicken
- Even Thickness: Try to choose chicken breasts that are similar in size and thickness for even cooking. You can also pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for more consistent results.
- Preheating: Preheating the air fryer helps to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior.
- Ranch Seasoning: Adjust the amount of ranch seasoning to your taste preference. You can also add a bit more if you prefer a stronger ranch flavor.
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Ranch Chicken is a delicious and easy meal that brings the classic flavor of ranch seasoning to your dinner table. The air fryer ensures the chicken stays juicy and tender while giving it a nice, crispy exterior. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or any time you want a flavorful meal without a lot of fuss. Enjoy this tasty and healthy dish!