3-Ingredient Air Fryer Chicken Breast
Craving a juicy chicken breast for dinner but short on time? Your air fryer is about to become your new best friend. This quick and easy dinner recipe uses just three ingredients to create a mouthwatering meal in minutes.
With this air fryer recipe, you’ll have tender, perfectly cooked chicken on your plate in about 15 minutes. It’s a game-changer for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal without the fuss.
The secret to this dish lies in its simplicity. You’ll need 2 pounds of thin chicken breast, a packet of Italian Seasoning Mix, and a splash of extra virgin olive oil. That’s it! The air fryer does the heavy lifting, cooking your chicken to juicy perfection while you tackle other tasks.
Ready to give it a try? Let’s dive into the details and get cooking. Your taste buds will thank you for this delicious, fuss-free meal.
Essential Ingredients and Kitchen Tools
Creating delicious air fryer chicken starts with the right ingredients and tools. Let’s explore what you’ll need for this mouthwatering recipe.
For the main ingredients, you’ll need:
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 teaspoons avocado oil
- A blend of spices (paprika, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, brown sugar, cornstarch)
Alternatively, you can use a pre-made seasoning mix like McCormick Rotisserie Chicken Seasoning for convenience.
- An air fryer
- A food thermometer
- Tongs or a fork for flipping
- A cutting board
- A sharp knife for slicing chicken
Here’s a quick guide to cooking times based on chicken breast size:
| Chicken Breast Size | Cooking Time |
|---|---|
| 6-7 ounces | 10-11 minutes |
| 8-9 ounces | 11-12 minutes |
| 10 ounces or larger | 13-14 minutes |
Remember to preheat your air fryer to 415°F. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F for perfectly juicy chicken every time.
3-Ingredient Air Fryer Chicken Breast: Step-by-Step Guide
Want to learn how to cook chicken in an air fryer? This easy guide will show you how to make a tasty meal. First, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, get your chicken ready.
Take two boneless chicken breasts and lay them out. Mix 1 Tbsp olive oil, 1/4 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp garlic powder in a bowl. Brush this mix on both sides of the chicken.
Put the seasoned chicken in the air fryer basket. Make sure they don’t overlap. Cook at 380°F (193°C) for about 18 minutes, flipping halfway. Cooking time might change based on chicken size.
Check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should be 165°F (74°C) to be safe. Let it rest for 5 minutes to stay juicy.
| Chicken Type | Initial Cooking Time | Additional Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boneless, Skinless | 10 minutes | 5-8 minutes | 15-18 minutes |
| Bone-in | 15 minutes | 12-15 minutes | 27-30 minutes |
This recipe makes 3 servings. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat at 350°F for the best taste.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Results
Mastering air fryer chicken tips can elevate your cooking game. To keep chicken moist, avoid overcrowding the basket. Cook in a single layer for even results.
For juicy perfection, remove the chicken when it reaches 160°F internally. Let it rest covered for 5 minutes to finish cooking.
Experiment with seasonings to add variety. Try salt, pepper, dried oregano, garlic salt, smoked paprika, or cayenne. These spices can transform your dish without adding extra calories.
Cooking times vary based on chicken breast size. Use this handy guide:
| Chicken Breast Size | Cooking Time |
|---|---|
| 4-5 oz | 10-12 minutes |
| 6-8 oz | 13-15 minutes |
| 9-12 oz | 16-20 minutes |
For best results, use a digital meat thermometer. Chicken should reach 165°F internally. Set your air fryer to 360°F and cook for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method yields juicy chicken with only 163 calories per serving.
Remember, fresh or fully thawed chicken works best. Avoid using frozen breasts for this recipe. Proper storage extends enjoyment – refrigerate leftovers for up to four days or freeze for six months.
Storage and Meal Prep Options
Storing air fryer chicken is easy, making it great for meal prep. Let it cool down completely after cooking. Then, put it in an airtight container and refrigerate it. It stays fresh for 3-4 days, perfect for different meals all week.
For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight when you’re ready. Reheat it in your air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes. Make sure it reaches 165°F for safety.
Your air fryer chicken is super versatile for meal prep. Slice it for salads, wrap it in tortillas, or use it in sandwiches. Cube it for stir-fries or pasta. This easy storage method saves time and effort on busy days.
FAQ
How long does it take to cook chicken breast in an air fryer?
Cooking chicken breast in an air fryer takes about 12 minutes. But, the time can change based on the chicken’s size. Always check the chicken’s internal temperature with a food thermometer to make sure it’s 165°F.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just cook them for about 20 minutes, flipping them halfway. Make sure to check the chicken’s internal temperature with a food thermometer to ensure it’s 165°F.
What are the three ingredients needed for this recipe?
You’ll need 2 pounds of thin chicken breast, 1 ounce of Italian Seasoning Mix, and 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out in the air fryer?
To keep the chicken juicy, don’t overcook it. Remove it from the air fryer when it’s at 160°F. Let it rest covered for 5 minutes to cook a bit more. This helps keep it moist and tender.
Can I use different seasonings for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can try different seasonings like salt, pepper, dried oregano, garlic salt, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, or cayenne. This will give you different flavors.
How should I store leftover air fryer chicken breast?
Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Always thaw it before reheating.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover air fryer chicken?
Reheat the chicken in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes. This keeps the chicken’s texture and prevents it from drying out.
Can I use this chicken for meal prep?
Yes! This air fryer chicken is great for meal prep. You can use it in salads, wraps, sandwiches, and more. It’s a versatile option for quick meals.
What kitchen tools do I need for this recipe?
You’ll need an air fryer, parchment paper, a pastry brush, fork or tongs, a cutting board, a serrated knife, and a food thermometer. These tools are essential for cooking and checking the chicken’s temperature.
How can I ensure the chicken is cooked evenly in the air fryer?
For even cooking, don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook the chicken in a single layer. Flip it halfway through and always check the internal temperature with a food thermometer to ensure it’s 165°F.