Air Fryer Chicken: Perfect Timing For Tender, Juicy Meat

Air fryers are a great way to cook chicken breasts to perfection. The circulating hot air ensures even cooking and a juicy, tender texture. The cooking time depends on the size of the chicken breasts and the desired level of doneness, but generally, it takes around 10-20 minutes to cook chicken breasts in an air fryer.

To make juicy and tender air fryer chicken breasts, it is important to start with chicken breasts of uniform size and thickness. If the breasts are uneven, pounding them to an even thickness is recommended. Additionally, seasoning or marinating the chicken before air frying adds flavour and moisture to the meat.

The cooking temperature for air fryer chicken breasts is typically between 360-415 degrees Fahrenheit. It is crucial to ensure that the air fryer basket is not overcrowded, as this can affect the cooking process. Flipping the chicken breasts halfway through the cooking time ensures even cooking on both sides.

Using an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken breasts is the best way to determine if they are cooked to the desired level of doneness. According to food safety guidelines, chicken is considered safely cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. However, some recipes recommend removing the chicken from the air fryer when it reaches 155-160 degrees Fahrenheit, as the residual heat will continue to cook the meat.

Air fryer chicken breasts are versatile and can be used in various dishes such as salads, soups, casseroles, sandwiches, and more. They are a great option for meal prep, as they can be cooked in large batches and stored in the refrigerator for up to five days or frozen for up to two months.

How to season chicken breast for the air fryer

There are many ways to season chicken breast for the air fryer, and you can use any of your favourite herbs and seasonings. Here is one option:

Firstly, place your chicken breasts on a cutting board and cover with a large sheet of plastic wrap. Using a rolling pin, meat mallet, or your palm, lightly pound the chicken breasts until they are of an even thickness.

Next, you can dry brine the chicken. To do this, place the chicken on a plate and sprinkle all over with kosher salt. Place the chicken in the refrigerator uncovered for at least 30 minutes or up to 1 day.

Now, remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it stand at room temperature for 15 minutes.

In a small bowl, stir together your chosen spices. For example, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. If you did not dry brine the chicken, add salt now.

Place the chicken in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle the spice mixture over the top and toss to coat the chicken, ensuring you rub the spices evenly over both sides.

Finally, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (or 190°C). Place the chicken in the air fryer basket, smooth side down, and cook for 6-7 minutes. Then, flip the chicken over and cook for another 2-8 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken breasts.

How long to cook chicken breast in the air fryer

The length of time it takes to cook chicken breast in an air fryer depends on the size of the chicken breasts. For example, small breasts (5 to 7 ounces) will take 7 to 10 minutes, while large breasts (11 ounces or more) will take 12 to 16 minutes.

Air Fryer Temperature and Cooking Time

It's important to note that the cooking time will also depend on the temperature of the air fryer. Most recipes recommend cooking chicken breasts in an air fryer between 360 to 415 degrees Fahrenheit. At 375 degrees Fahrenheit, for instance, small breasts will take around 8 minutes, while large breasts will take around 14 minutes.

Tips for Cooking Chicken Breasts in an Air Fryer

• It is recommended to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking to ensure even cooking.
• Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Leave enough space between the chicken breasts to allow hot air to circulate.
• Flip the chicken breasts halfway through the cooking process for even cooking.
• Use an instant-read thermometer to check if the chicken is cooked. Chicken is considered cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute and for carryover cooking to finish the job.

Air Fryer Chicken Breast Recipes

• Spicy air fryer chicken breast with a blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, brown sugar, cornstarch, and avocado oil.
• Herb and spice-rubbed chicken breasts with a mix of paprika, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
• Chicken breasts seasoned with a simple blend of smoked paprika, cumin, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
• Chicken breasts coated with a paste made of olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and oregano or other herbs.

Serving Suggestions

Air fryer chicken breasts are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas:

• Sandwiches or wraps: Try a chicken and avocado sandwich or wrap using keto-friendly tortillas or bread.
• Pasta: Slice the chicken and add it to a healthy pasta dish.
• Pizza: Use the chicken as a topping for a flavourful hit on your pizza.
• Sides: Make the chicken the star of the dish and serve it with sides like roasted potatoes, salad, or steamed vegetables.
• Salads: Chop up the chicken and add it to your favourite salad for a protein boost.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover air fryer chicken breasts can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, use the air fryer or microwave for a couple of minutes until warmed through.

How to reheat air-fried chicken breast

Preparation

Before reheating your chicken breast, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to remove some of the chill. This will help it to heat more evenly.

Oil

If you want to enhance the crispiness of your chicken breast, brush it with a little oil or cooking spray.

Air Fryer Settings

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F/175°C. If you want your chicken to be extra crispy, you can increase the temperature to 400°F/200°C for the last minute of cooking time. However, be careful not to overcook the chicken.

Cooking Time and Temperature

Arrange the chicken breast in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each piece for the air to circulate effectively. Depending on the size of your chicken breasts, the reheating time will vary. Smaller pieces will take 6-10 minutes, while larger pieces will take 10-15 minutes. Very large or bone-in pieces may take up to 20 minutes.

Flip the chicken breast after 6 minutes for even reheating. Check the internal temperature of the chicken breast with a meat thermometer after 10 minutes to avoid overcooking. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C.

Tips

• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure proper air circulation and even reheating.
• If your chicken breast is coated with sauce or breadcrumbs, place it on parchment paper in the air fryer basket to prevent sticking.
• Always check the internal temperature of the chicken breast to ensure it has reached 165°F/74°C, as per USDA guidelines.
• Experiment with seasonings or sauces to add extra flavor to your reheated chicken breast.

Storing and Safety Tips

• Store leftover reheated chicken breast in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking and consume it within 4 days.
• Avoid reheating chicken more than once, as this can increase the risk of foodborne illness.
• Wash your hands, utensils, and countertops thoroughly after handling raw chicken to prevent cross-contamination.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your reheated chicken breast with a side of fluffy mashed potatoes, or try it in sandwiches, wraps, or as a topping for mid-week salads.

How to store air-fried chicken breast

Storing your air-fried chicken breast is a simple process and can be done in a few different ways.

Firstly, you can store your chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This is a great option if you plan on eating the chicken within a few days, as it will stay fresh and tasty.

If you want to store your chicken for longer, you can freeze it. Place the cooked and cooled chicken breasts in an airtight freezer-safe storage container or a ziplock bag and store them in the freezer for up to three months.

When you're ready to eat your frozen chicken, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating it. You can gently rewarm the chicken in the air fryer or oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Now that you know how to store your air-fried chicken breast, you can enjoy delicious and juicy chicken anytime you want!

What to serve with air-fried chicken breast

There are many options for what to serve with air-fried chicken breast. Here are some ideas:

• Salads: Spinach Strawberry Salad, Thai Peanut Wraps, or a simple green salad
• Sandwiches or wraps: Chicken Caesar Wrap, Avocado Grilled Cheese Sandwich with Herbed Goat Cheese and Garlic, or a chicken and avocado sandwich
• Pasta: Brussels Sprouts Pasta with Brown Butter, creamy kale pasta, or mushroom gnocchi
• Pizza: Buffalo Chicken Pizza, Sicilian pizza, or cast iron pizza
• Sides: Smoked mac and cheese, scalloped potatoes, or curry fried rice
• Vegetables: Roasted potatoes and carrots, roasted broccoli, or air fryer Brussels sprouts
• Rice: Green rice
• Dips: Gochujang dipping sauce

Frequently asked questions