Air-frying chicken is a fantastic way to achieve tender and juicy results with a crispy exterior. Here’s a simple recipe for air-fryer chicken:
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and ensures even cooking.
- Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to form a paste.
- Coat the Chicken: Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken breasts, making sure to coat them evenly. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15-20 minutes at room temperature, or cover and refrigerate for up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
- Air-Fry the Chicken: Once the air fryer is preheated, place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving some space between them to allow for proper air circulation. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the chicken in batches.
- Cook the Chicken: Air-fry the chicken breasts at 375°F (190°C) for 18-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts and the specific model of your air fryer. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear.
- Rest and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked through, transfer it to a plate or cutting board and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier chicken.
- Serve: Serve the air-fryer chicken breasts with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, salad, or rice.
Enjoy your tender and juicy air-fryer chicken! It’s a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken and makes for a delicious and satisfying meal.
