Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Breast Recipe: With Tender Results

If you’ve ever pulled dry, rubbery chicken breast out of your air fryer, you know the frustration. You followed the recipe, but something went wrong. The air fryer is supposed to make dinner easier, not tougher. The good news? Juicy air fryer chicken breast is absolutely possible, and once you know the two or three things that actually matter, you’ll nail it every single time.

Good

% Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Step 1

Remove chicken from the fridge 10–15 minutes before cooking. Pound to even ¾-inch thickness if needed.

Step 2

Preheat air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3 minutes.

Step 3

Pat chicken completely dry with paper towels.

Step 4

Coat chicken with olive oil. Mix seasonings and rub evenly on all sides.

Step 5

Place chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer (do not overlap).

Step 6

Cook for 9–11 minutes, then flip.

Step 7

Cook another 9–11 minutes until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 8

Remove and rest for 5 minutes (temperature will rise to 165°F).

Step 9

Slice and serve.