15 Chicken Breast Recipes in Air Fryer

You've probably wondered how to make the most of your air fryer when it comes to chicken breasts. Having 15 different recipes at your fingertips means you'll never get bored with this lean protein option. From classic seasoned to honey mustard and spicy Cajun variations, each recipe offers unique flavors while maintaining that coveted juicy texture. Let's explore these air fryer chicken recipes that'll transform your weeknight dinner routine, starting with a foolproof basic method that'll serve as your foundation for all variations.

Classic Seasoned Air Fryer Chicken Breast

Air fryer chicken breast is a game-changing way to prepare this versatile protein. The high-heat circulation creates a perfectly seasoned exterior while keeping the interior tender and juicy, all in a fraction of the time compared to traditional oven baking.

This straightforward recipe focuses on classic seasonings that enhance the natural flavor of the chicken without overpowering it. The combination of garlic powder, paprika, and salt creates a savory crust that seals in moisture, resulting in chicken that's flavorful enough to eat on its own yet versatile enough to use in other dishes.

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). While the air fryer heats up, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a nicely browned exterior.

In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil on both sides, then thoroughly coat them with the seasoning mixture, pressing gently to help the seasonings adhere to the meat.

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping the breasts halfway through the cooking time. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

For optimal results, bring the chicken breasts to room temperature 20-30 minutes before cooking, and consider butterflying or pounding them to an even thickness if they're particularly large.

The cooking time may need adjustment based on the size of your chicken breasts – thicker pieces will require additional time, while thinner pieces may cook more quickly. Always avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure proper air circulation and even cooking.

Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breast

Parmesan crusted chicken breast made in the air fryer creates a perfect combination of crispy exterior and juicy interior. The cheese forms a golden-brown crust that's packed with flavor while protecting the moisture of the chicken during the cooking process.

This version elevates the basic air fryer chicken by adding a delectable coating of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and carefully selected seasonings. The air fryer's circulating heat ensures the cheese melts and crisps evenly, creating a restaurant-quality dish with minimal effort.

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If the breasts are thick, butterfly them or pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This ensures even cooking and proper cheese crust formation.

In a shallow dish, combine the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, pepper, and salt. In a separate dish, beat the eggs with olive oil. Dip each chicken breast in the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly in the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well.

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the coated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping carefully halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden brown and crispy.

For optimal results, let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes before cutting to prevent the juices from escaping. The coating can be delicate, so handle with care when flipping. If the Parmesan coating starts to brown too quickly, lower the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue cooking until the chicken is done. Spritzing the breaded chicken with oil before cooking can help achieve an even more golden-brown crust.

Honey Mustard Air Fried Chicken

Honey Mustard Air Fried Chicken transforms ordinary chicken breasts into a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors. The air fryer perfectly seals in the honey mustard marinade while creating a golden-brown exterior that's both appealing to the eye and the palate.

This recipe takes the basic air fryer chicken technique to the next level by incorporating a flavorful honey mustard sauce that not only seasons the meat but also creates a glaze during cooking. The natural sugars in honey caramelize slightly in the air fryer, resulting in a delectable coating that complements the tender, juicy chicken inside.

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme

In a medium bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and dried thyme until well combined.

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and place them in the marinade, coating them evenly on all sides. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off, but don't discard the remaining marinade. Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap.

Cook for 5 minutes, then brush with the remaining marinade. Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to ensure the juices redistribute throughout the meat.

For optimal results, choose chicken breasts of similar size and thickness to ensure even cooking. If the breasts are very thick, consider butterflying them or pounding them to an even thickness.

The honey in this recipe can cause the exterior to brown quickly, so keep an eye on the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking to prevent burning. If you notice excessive browning, you can loosely cover the chicken with aluminum foil while it finishes cooking.

Cajun Spiced Chicken Breast

The bold and zesty flavors of Cajun seasoning transform ordinary chicken breast into a vibrant, spice-crusted delight when prepared in an air fryer. This recipe delivers a perfect balance of heat and savory notes while maintaining the chicken's natural juiciness through the controlled cooking environment of the air fryer.

Traditional Cajun seasoning combines paprika, cayenne, garlic, oregano, and other spices to create a distinctive flavor profile that originated in Louisiana. When applied to chicken breast and air fried, these spices form a flavorful crust while the meat stays tender and moist, making it an excellent choice for both main dishes and recipe components.

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). While the air fryer heats up, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure proper seasoning adhesion.

In a small bowl, combine all the dry spices to create your Cajun seasoning blend.

Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil on both sides, then generously coat them with the Cajun seasoning mixture, pressing gently to help the spices adhere to the meat.

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap to allow proper air circulation.

Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping the chicken breasts halfway through the cooking time. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at its thickest point.

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

For optimal results, consider butterflying thicker chicken breasts to ensure even cooking. If you're sensitive to heat, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper by half.

The chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to maintain its crispy exterior.

Mediterranean Herb Chicken

This Mediterranean-inspired air fryer chicken breast recipe combines classic herbs and seasonings of the region to create a flavorful, aromatic dish. The blend of oregano, rosemary, and thyme captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine while maintaining the chicken's natural juiciness through the air frying process.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility and simplicity. The herbs create a fragrant crust on the exterior of the chicken while the air fryer's consistent heat distribution ensures the meat stays tender and moist. This dish pairs perfectly with Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or can be sliced for pita sandwiches.

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). While the air fryer heats up, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure proper seasoning adhesion.

In a small bowl, combine the oregano, rosemary, thyme, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and paprika.

Brush the chicken breasts generously with olive oil, then coat them thoroughly with the herb mixture, pressing gently to help the seasonings adhere to the meat.

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap.

Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through the cooking process. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at its thickest point.

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

For optimal results, bring the chicken breasts to room temperature 20-30 minutes before cooking. If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, consider butterflying them or using a meat mallet to pound them to an even thickness, which will ensure more consistent cooking.

The herbs can be adjusted to taste, and fresh herbs can be substituted for dried ones by tripling the amount specified in the recipe.

Lemon Pepper Air Fryer Chicken

This bright and zesty take on air fryer chicken breast combines the sharp, citrusy notes of fresh lemon with the bold kick of black pepper. The result is a perfectly balanced dish that's both refreshing and satisfying, while maintaining the juicy interior that air fryer cooking provides.

The secret to this recipe's success lies in creating a proper lemon pepper crust that seals in the moisture while cooking. The air fryer's circulating heat ensures that the exterior develops a deliciously seasoned crust while keeping the chicken tender and moist on the inside.

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• 2 teaspoons coarse black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 lemon, sliced (for garnish)

Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, black pepper, salt, and garlic powder to create a marinade. Coat the chicken breasts thoroughly with the marinade mixture, ensuring even coverage on all sides.

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Once preheated, place the marinated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap. If your air fryer basket is small, cook them in batches rather than overcrowding.

Cook the chicken for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at its thickest point. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to ensure the juices redistribute throughout the meat.

For optimal results, consider butterflying thicker chicken breasts to ensure even cooking. The cooking time may need adjustment based on the size and thickness of your chicken pieces – larger or thicker pieces will require additional cooking time. For extra lemon flavor, place a few lemon slices in the air fryer basket during the last 2 minutes of cooking.

Buffalo Style Chicken Breast

The combination of spicy buffalo sauce and the precise cooking method of an air fryer creates a perfect balance of heat and tenderness in this chicken breast recipe. The result is a healthier alternative to deep-fried buffalo chicken while maintaining that signature spicy kick and juicy interior.

This recipe transforms ordinary chicken breasts into a zesty, restaurant-quality dish that can be served as a main course, sliced for sandwiches, or chopped for salads. The air fryer's even heat distribution ensures the buffalo sauce creates a flavorful crust while sealing in the natural juices of the meat.

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and brush them with olive oil. Mix the garlic powder, paprika, and salt in a small bowl, then season both sides of the chicken breasts evenly with this mixture.

In a separate bowl, combine the buffalo sauce, melted butter, honey, and cayenne pepper if using. Reserve half of this sauce mixture for serving. Brush the chicken breasts generously with the remaining buffalo sauce mixture, ensuring even coverage on both sides.

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through and brushing with additional buffalo sauce mixture. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, brush with the reserved sauce mixture and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

For optimal results, bringing the chicken to room temperature 30 minutes before cooking will ensure even cooking throughout. If you prefer a milder heat level, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce and increase the honey slightly. The chicken can also be butterflied or pounded to an even thickness before cooking to ensure consistent doneness throughout each piece.

Asian Sesame Chicken

This air fryer version of Asian Sesame Chicken delivers the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors while maintaining the juiciness of the chicken breast. The combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and honey creates a delectable glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the air fryer.

The success of this dish relies on proper marination time and the layering of sesame flavors through both the marinade and the finishing touches. The air fryer's precise temperature control ensures the honey-based sauce doesn't burn while allowing the chicken to cook evenly and develop a gorgeous caramelized exterior.

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, sliced
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

In a bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and rice vinegar to create the marinade. Place the chicken breasts in the mixture and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off, but reserve the marinade for basting. Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap.

Cook for 5 minutes, then flip and baste with the reserved marinade. Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). During the last 2 minutes of cooking, sprinkle half of the sesame seeds over the chicken. Once done, remove from the air fryer and let rest for 5 minutes.

Garnish with remaining sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving. For optimal results, ensure chicken breasts are of even thickness by butterflying or pounding them if necessary. The marinade can be reduced in a small saucepan while the chicken cooks to create an extra sauce for serving.

If the chicken starts to brown too quickly due to the honey in the marinade, lower the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and extend the cooking time slightly.

Mexican Taco Seasoned Chicken

Transform ordinary chicken breasts into a flavorful Mexican-inspired dish using your air fryer. This recipe combines traditional taco seasonings with the efficient cooking method of an air fryer to create juicy, well-seasoned chicken that's perfect for tacos, burritos, or Mexican-style salads.

The secret to this recipe's success lies in the authentic blend of Mexican spices and the air fryer's ability to seal in flavors while creating a slightly crispy exterior. The result is tender, perfectly cooked chicken with a robust taco seasoning that penetrates deep into the meat, eliminating bland, flavorless bites.

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano (preferably Mexican)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

While the air fryer heats up, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure better seasoning adhesion.

In a small bowl, combine all the dry spices and mix thoroughly to create your taco seasoning blend.

Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil, making sure to coat both sides evenly.

Apply the taco seasoning mixture generously to both sides of the chicken, pressing gently to help the seasonings adhere to the meat.

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap.

Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through the cooking time.

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at its thickest point.

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to maintain juiciness.

For optimal results, butterfly thicker chicken breasts or pound them to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch before seasoning.

This ensures even cooking and better spice distribution.

If preparing this chicken for tacos, slice against the grain into strips while still warm.

You can also make extra seasoning mix and store it in an airtight container for future use, as this blend works well with other Mexican dishes.

Garlic Herb Chicken Breast

Garlic herb chicken breast prepared in an air fryer offers a perfect balance of aromatic flavors and tender, juicy meat. The combination of fresh herbs and garlic creates a classic flavor profile that's both sophisticated and comforting, while the air fryer ensures consistent cooking throughout.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility and simplicity. Fresh herbs infuse the chicken with vibrant flavors, while minced garlic adds a robust depth that permeates the meat during cooking. The air fryer's rapid air circulation locks in moisture while creating a perfectly seasoned exterior.

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 lemon, zested
• 1 tablespoon butter, softened

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme leaves, olive oil, salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Mix well to create a paste.

Rub the softened butter over the chicken breasts, then coat them thoroughly with the herb mixture, ensuring even coverage on all sides.

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part using a meat thermometer.

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. The resting period is crucial for maintaining moisture and ensuring the herbs have fully infused their flavors into the chicken.

For optimal results, bring the chicken to room temperature 20 minutes before cooking and consider butterflying thicker breasts to ensure even cooking. If using dried herbs instead of fresh, reduce the quantity by half as dried herbs are more concentrated.

The chicken can be marinated in the herb mixture for up to 4 hours in the refrigerator for more intense flavor.

BBQ Glazed Air Fryer Chicken

BBQ Air Fryer Chicken Breast delivers the perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors while maintaining the meat's natural juiciness. The air fryer's circulating heat creates a caramelized exterior as the BBQ sauce builds up into a delectable glaze, making this dish an instant family favorite.

The key to achieving the perfect BBQ glazed chicken is applying the sauce in layers during the cooking process. This method allows each layer to caramelize slightly, creating depth of flavor and preventing the sauce from burning or becoming too sticky in the air fryer basket.

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey

Begin by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and brush them with olive oil. In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with this spice mixture.

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap. Cook for 6 minutes, then flip the chicken. In a small bowl, mix the BBQ sauce with honey. Brush the top side of the chicken with the BBQ sauce mixture and continue cooking for 3 minutes.

Flip the chicken again, brush with more BBQ sauce, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute and the glaze to set.

For optimal results, choose a high-quality BBQ sauce that isn't too thick, as it will reduce and thicken during cooking. If your chicken breasts are larger than average, butterfly them or pound them to an even thickness of about 1 inch before cooking. Keep an eye on the chicken during the final few minutes of cooking, as the sugar in the BBQ sauce can burn quickly.

Ranch Flavored Chicken Breast

The beloved taste of ranch seasoning transforms ordinary chicken breast into a flavorful, crowd-pleasing dish that's perfect for any meal. By using an air fryer, this recipe achieves the ideal balance of a crispy exterior and juicy interior while infusing the meat with classic ranch flavors.

The combination of dried herbs and spices typical in ranch seasoning creates a delicious crust on the chicken when air fried, while the buttermilk marinade ensures the meat stays tender and moist throughout the cooking process. This method takes advantage of the air fryer's efficient heat circulation to seal in flavors and create an evenly cooked result.

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried dill
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried chives
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Marinate the chicken breasts in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator. This step helps tenderize the meat and adds moisture. After marinating, remove the chicken from the buttermilk and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.

Mix all the dried herbs and spices in a small bowl. Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil, then coat them generously with the ranch seasoning mixture, pressing gently to help the seasonings adhere to the meat. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

For optimal results, bring the chicken to room temperature 20 minutes before cooking and consider butterflying thicker breasts to ensure even cooking.

The buttermilk marinade can be enhanced with a tablespoon of the ranch seasoning mixture for extra flavor, and any leftover seasoning can be stored in an airtight container for future use. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, as this will prevent proper air circulation and affect the crispiness of the coating.

Greek Seasoned Chicken

This Mediterranean-inspired chicken breast recipe transforms ordinary poultry into a flavorful masterpiece using classic Greek seasonings. The combination of herbs like oregano and thyme, paired with zesty lemon and garlic, creates an authentic Greek flavor profile that's both bright and savory.

The air fryer's precise temperature control and circulating heat ensure the chicken stays juicy while developing a perfectly seasoned exterior crust. This cooking method is particularly effective for Greek-style chicken as it allows the herbs to form an aromatic coating without burning, while the lemon helps tenderize the meat during the cooking process.

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). While the air fryer heats, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, and all dried herbs and seasonings to create a paste-like marinade. Coat the chicken breasts thoroughly with the marinade, ensuring even coverage on all sides.

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked. The exterior will develop a golden-brown crust with visible herbs.

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking. During this time, the juices will redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring maximum tenderness. Garnish with additional lemon zest and fresh herbs if desired.

For optimal results, bring the chicken to room temperature 20 minutes before cooking, and consider butterflying thicker breasts to ensure even cooking. If preparing multiple batches, keep the first batch warm in a low-temperature oven while cooking the remaining pieces.

The leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and is excellent served cold in Greek salads or pita sandwiches.

Teriyaki Air Fried Chicken

Teriyaki chicken in the air fryer combines the convenience of air frying with the rich, sweet-savory flavors of Japanese-inspired teriyaki sauce. The high-heat circulation of the air fryer creates a beautiful glaze on the chicken while keeping the meat tender and juicy inside.

The key to perfect teriyaki chicken is the balance of flavors in the sauce and the timing of its application. Adding the sauce in stages prevents burning while ensuring the chicken develops a sticky, caramelized coating that's characteristic of great teriyaki dishes.

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup mirin
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons sake (or rice vinegar)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Sesame seeds for garnish

Start by preparing the teriyaki sauce. In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, sake, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry and add to the sauce, stirring until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool.

Pat the chicken breasts dry and brush with vegetable oil. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken in the air fryer basket and cook for 5 minutes. Remove and brush generously with teriyaki sauce, then return to the air fryer for another 5 minutes.

Flip the chicken, brush with more sauce, and continue cooking for 5-7 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). During the final 2 minutes, brush with remaining sauce to create a glossy finish. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and garnishing with sesame seeds.

For optimal results, ensure chicken breasts are even in thickness by butterflying or pounding them before cooking. The sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. If the teriyaki sauce becomes too thick, thin it with a little water. Be careful not to oversaturate the air fryer basket with sauce to prevent smoking.

Sweet and Spicy Chicken Breast

This air fryer sweet and spicy chicken breast recipe combines the perfect balance of honey's natural sweetness with the kick of cayenne pepper and chili powder. The result is a flavorful, juicy chicken that develops a caramelized exterior during the cooking process, creating an irresistible combination of tastes and textures.

The success of this recipe relies on creating a well-balanced marinade that allows the flavors to penetrate the meat while ensuring the sugars in the honey don't burn during cooking. The air fryer's controlled environment helps achieve this balance, cooking the chicken evenly while developing a sticky, flavorful glaze.

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. In a bowl, mix honey, olive oil, chili powder, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

Place the chicken breasts in the mixture, ensuring they're evenly coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the marinated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap. Cook for 6 minutes, then flip the chicken and brush with any remaining marinade.

Continue cooking for another 6-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. During this time, the juices will redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring maximum tenderness. The exterior should have a beautiful caramelized glaze with a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors.

For best results, choose chicken breasts of similar size and thickness to ensure even cooking. If the chicken breasts are particularly thick, butterfly them or pound them to an even thickness.

Watch the chicken carefully during the last few minutes of cooking, as the honey can caramelize quickly. If you notice the exterior browning too fast, lower the temperature to 350°F (175°C) for the remaining cook time.