Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Breast Recipe – Quick, Easy & Foolproof

Make the best air fryer chicken breast recipe in just 15 minutes! This juicy air fryer chicken is crispy outside, tender inside, and packed with incredible flavor.

RECIPES

Svetoslav

2/12/20253 min read

Juicy air fryer chicken breast sliced on a plate, crispy outside, tender and flavorful inside.
Juicy air fryer chicken breast sliced on a plate, crispy outside, tender and flavorful inside.

Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Breast – The Ultimate Foolproof Recipe

Two Things I Never Thought I’d Love: Air Fryers & Chicken… Until Now!

I’ll be honest—chicken breast has never been my favorite. Too many times, I’ve ended up with dry, bland, overcooked pieces that just don’t taste exciting. And air fryers? I used to think they were just another kitchen gadget taking up space.

But everything changed when I finally gave in and tried making air fryer chicken breast. And let me tell you—this recipe is a game changer!

Lately, I’ve been on a mission to cook high-protein, easy, and quick meals that don’t taste boring. After seeing so many people rave about juicy air fryer chicken, I decided to give it a shot. I bought an air fryer (this one!) and started experimenting.

The result? Perfectly juicy chicken with a golden, flavorful crust, ready in just 15 minutes. The secret? A bold seasoning blend with smoky paprika, garlic, and just a touch of brown sugar for caramelization. Every bite is packed with smoky, savory, and slightly sweet flavors, and the crispy edges? Irresistible.

Now, this air fryer chicken breast recipe is a staple in my kitchen, and I make it multiple times a week! It’s easy, quick, and never disappoints. If you’ve been struggling to make juicy, flavorful chicken breast, this recipe will change the way you cook forever!

👉 To make this recipe, you’ll need an air fryer. If you don’t have one yet, check out this top-rated air fryer on Amazon.

Modern air fryer on a kitchen countertop, perfect for cooking juicy air fryer chicken breast.
Modern air fryer on a kitchen countertop, perfect for cooking juicy air fryer chicken breast.

Ingredients You’ll Need

🔹 Best Spice Mix for Flavor:

1 tsp paprika
¼ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
¾ tsp salt
1 ½ tsp brown sugar
1 tsp cornstarch

🔹 For the Chicken:

2 tsp avocado oil (or olive oil)
1 large boneless, skinless chicken breast (~450g)

Step-by-Step: How to Make the Juiciest Air Fryer Chicken

1️⃣ Slice the Chicken Correctly

Cut the chicken breast in half horizontally to create thin, even pieces – this ensures even cooking and keeps the chicken juicy.

2️⃣ Coat with the Perfect Spice Blend

✔ Mix all spices in a bowl.
✔ Rub the chicken breasts with avocado oil and evenly coat them with the spice mixture.

3️⃣ Preheat Your Air Fryer

✔ Set your air fryer to 415°F (210°C) and preheat for 3-5 minutes.

4️⃣ Cook the Chicken in the Air Fryer

✔ Place the chicken breasts in the basket without overlapping.
✔ Air fry for 10 minutes, flipping at the 5-minute mark.

5️⃣ Let the Chicken Rest

✔ Remove the chicken and let it rest for 2-3 minutes before slicing to lock in the juices.

Fresh raw chicken breasts on a wooden cutting board, ready for seasoning and air frying.
Fresh raw chicken breasts on a wooden cutting board, ready for seasoning and air frying.

Portion Adjustments – Make It Work for You!

🔹 For 2 People (Small Batch):

  • 1 small chicken breast (~250g)

  • 1 tsp olive oil

  • ½ tsp paprika

  • ¼ tsp garlic powder

  • ¼ tsp onion powder

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ½ tsp brown sugar

  • ½ tsp cornstarch

🔹 Cook for 8-10 minutes at 415°F (210°C).

🔹 For 4 People (Family Meal):

  • 2 chicken breasts (~500g)

  • 2 tsp olive oil

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • ½ tsp garlic powder

  • ½ tsp onion powder

  • ¾ tsp salt

  • 1 tsp brown sugar

  • 1 tsp cornstarch

🔹 Cook for 10-12 minutes at 415°F (210°C).

🔹 For 6+ People (Meal Prep or Big Batch):

  • 3-4 chicken breasts (~750g - 1kg)

  • 3 tsp olive oil

  • 1 ½ tsp paprika

  • ¾ tsp garlic powder

  • ¾ tsp onion powder

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 1 ½ tsp brown sugar

  • 1 ½ tsp cornstarch

🔹 Cook for 12-14 minutes at 415°F (210°C).

Pro Tips for the Best Air Fryer Chicken

🔥 Want Extra Crispy Chicken?
✔ Add 1 tbsp panko breadcrumbs to the seasoning mix.

🌡 How to Know When the Chicken is Done?
✔ Use a meat thermometer – the internal temperature should be 165°F (75°C).

🔥 Marinate for More Flavor
✔ Let the chicken rest in the spice mix for 30 minutes to 24 hours before air frying.

FAQ – Common Air Fryer Chicken Questions

1️⃣ How do I make my air fryer chicken even juicier?
✔ Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

2️⃣ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
✔ Yes! Increase the cook time to 12-15 minutes.

3️⃣ What side dishes go well with this air fryer chicken?
✔ Serve it with roasted veggies, rice, or a fresh salad.

 Golden-brown, juicy air fryer chicken breast with a crispy crust, freshly cooked and resting.
 Golden-brown, juicy air fryer chicken breast with a crispy crust, freshly cooked and resting.

The Best Air Fryer Chicken Recipe You’ll Ever Try!

This is the easiest, juiciest, and most flavorful chicken breast recipe you can make in just 15 minutes!

👉 Want more chicken recipes? Try these next:
Spicy Parmesan chicken wings
✅ The Best Recipe Ideas with Chicken

🔹 Save this recipe on Pinterest & try it today!