When the day slips away and dinner needs to come together fast, I reach for this simple air fryer chicken breast recipe. No breading, no mess—just juicy, tender chicken ready in under 30 minutes. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a small victory after a hectic day.
One evening last week, the aroma of garlic and paprika gently filled the kitchen as I preheated the air fryer. The sound of the fan humming was oddly comforting, a signal that dinner was on its way without a lot of hovering. When I sliced into the chicken after letting it rest, the tender meat was perfectly cooked, moist, and full of flavor. It paired beautifully with a quick salad, making the whole meal feel balanced and satisfying. I remember thinking how this simple dish could easily become a weekday staple, freeing up time without sacrificing taste.
- Ready in less than 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights
- Juicy, tender chicken every time without breading
- Easy to customize with your favorite spices
- Great for meal prepping and leftovers
- Minimal cleanup thanks to the air fryer method
If you’re new to using an air fryer, don’t worry. This recipe is straightforward and forgiving, making it a great starting point. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and your family will appreciate a wholesome meal on the table without the usual stress.
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Air Fryer Chicken Breast (Without Breading)
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 2 1x
Description
A simple and healthy recipe for juicy, tender chicken breasts cooked in the air fryer without any breading. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes.
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
Brush both sides of each chicken breast with olive oil.
In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they do not overlap.
Cook for 9 minutes, then flip the chicken breasts over and cook for an additional 9 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Remove the chicken breasts from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken breasts? It’s best to thaw them first for even cooking, but if you’re in a pinch, you can adjust the cooking time slightly. Just be sure to check the internal temperature.
What if I don’t have paprika? You can swap it for chili powder or smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.
How do I know when the chicken is done? The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Letting it rest after cooking helps keep it juicy.
Can I double the recipe? Absolutely. Just make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket so the chicken cooks evenly.
Give this recipe a try next time you want a no-fuss, delicious chicken dinner. Save it, print it, and come back to it when time is tight but flavor is non-negotiable.