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air fryer chicken breast

A simple method for how to make juicy, super tender, and wonderfully delicious chicken breasts in the Air Fryer! This basic Air Fryer chicken recipe is quick, healthy, and can be prepped ahead of time.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 120
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 cups warm water
  • 0.25 cup kosher salt
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • olive oil cooking spray (or butter cooking spray OR avocado oil spray)
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt (optional, as chicken will absorb some from brine)
  • fresh ground black pepper to taste
  • 0.75 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon sweet paprika
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano (or any other dried herbs)

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Place chicken breasts in a large bowl.
  2. In a mixing bowl or a large measuring cup, combine warm water and kosher salt; stir, then pour over the chicken breasts. Set aside for 20 to 30 minutes. You can also cover the bowl and refrigerate for up to 6 hours.
  3. In the meantime, stir together the optional salt, ground black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and oregano.
  4. Take each chicken breast out of the brine and rinse under cold water; pat dry with paper towels.
  5. Spray chicken breasts with cooking oil on all sides. Sprinkle the seasoning blend evenly over the chicken breasts and rub in on all sides.
  6. Place 2 to 3 chicken breasts in the air fryer basket. Leave enough space between the breasts to ensure even cooking.
  7. Cook at 375˚F for 10 minutes.
  8. Using tongs, flip the chicken over and continue to cook for 6 to 8 more minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165˚F).
  9. Remove chicken breasts from the air fryer basket and let rest on a cutting board for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Brining is a key step to ensure the chicken breasts remain juicy and tender. Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts and the model of your air fryer. Always use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness.