Description
Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Breasts that are tender, juicy, and delicious every time. Make this easy, foolproof recipe for a fast and simple weeknight dinner, or use it in your favorite meal prep recipes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3–4 tablespoons kosher salt
- 6–8 cups lukewarm water
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- non-stick cooking spray
Instructions
- Brine: Fill a large bowl or pot with 6-8 cups of lukewarm water. Add approximately 3-4 tablespoons of kosher salt and mix well until dissolved.
- Soak: Add the chicken breasts to the water. Let them rest for approximately 20-30 minutes. Remove from the water and pat dry with paper towels.
- Season: In a small bowl combine the paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Lightly spray the chicken breasts with nonstick spray and season both sides.
- Air Fry: Lightly spray the inside of your air fryer basket and preheat. Add the chicken breasts in batches. Set temperature to 380°F and cook for 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Check: After 6-8 minutes, use a digital read meat thermometer to check for a temperature between 160-165°F.
- Rest: Remove chicken breasts to a clean plate and allow them to rest for 5 minutes before slicing or serving.
Notes
Use chicken breasts of similar weight (6-8 oz) and pound thicker ends for even cooking. Brining ensures juicier results. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 262 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 844 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 48 g
- Cholesterol: 145 mg