Can you bake chicken in an air fryer

This foolproof recipe makes flavorful and tender air fryer chicken breasts every time, seasoned with herbs and spices.

Similar to my air fryer chicken thighs, this air fryer chicken recipe is made with just the right amount of seasoning and extremely versatile. This recipe is also perfect for someone following a keto or Whole30 lifestyle.

Air frying is the best way to cook tender chicken in less time, since there’s no preheating the oven. And with my simple seasoning blend, these flavorful chicken breasts not only make an easy weeknight dinner, but they’re perfect for meal prep too. This recipe results in super flavorful, tender chicken breasts with no brining!

The best thing about serving chicken is that it is so versatile. Adding a delicious and creamy sauce like this white bbq sauce or Peruvian creamy green sauce can create an entirely new recipe.

And adding side dishes like Instant Pot Risotto or Sous Vide Asparagus makes it the perfect meal.

Don’t own an air fryer? Try my Sous Vide Chicken Breasts recipe! Looking for a crispier option? Try my Air Fried Crispy Chicken Tenders! There are so many options to choose from.

What is needed for air fryer chicken breasts recipe?

  • Olive Oil
  • Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast
  • Kosher Salt
  • Oregano
  • Paprika
  • Black Pepper
  • Garlic Powder

Note: To switch things up, try swapping in my Italian Seasoning or Cajun Seasoning in place of the herbs called for in this recipe.

Can you bake chicken in an air fryer
Can you bake chicken in an air fryer
Can you bake chicken in an air fryer

At what temperature do you air fry chicken breasts?

  • Cook at 370-degrees for the best flavor.

How to make air fryer chicken breasts

  • In a small bowl combine the salt and spices with oil to create a paste. Coat boneless chicken breasts with the paste. Place chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook.

How long to cook chicken breasts in the air fryer

  • Place in the air fryer basket and cook at 370-degrees for 10 minutes. Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 4-8 minutes cooking time, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 160-degrees on an instant read thermometer. The total cook time will depend on the size of your chicken breasts (see below).

Size matters

  • Small Breasts (5-7 oz.) – 14 minutes
  • Medium Breasts (8-9 oz.) – 16 minutes
  • Large Breasts (10+ oz.) – 18 minutes

Resting time

After your chicken has finished cooking, be sure to let it rest for 5-minutes, tented with foil, to allow the juices to redistribute and the chicken to finish cooking.

Food safety guidelines recommend cooking chicken to an internal temperature of 165-degrees. However, if you remove it from the air fryer once it has reached 160-degrees, the residual heat will continue to cook the chicken as it cooks.

Chicken is undercooked

If you find that your chicken is undercooked, return it to the air fryer and continue cooking for 2-3 minutes until it is no longer pink inside and the juices run clear.

Can you bake chicken in an air fryer

When to add vegetables

  • You can add vegetables like zucchini, brussel sprouts, red peppers, broccoli and asparagus.  Add them to the air fryer basket at the halfway point.

Variations

  • Try swapping in my Italian Seasoning or Cajun Seasoning in place of the herbs called for in this recipe.
  • Marinade. Try marinating your chicken overnight in some Italian dressing.
  • If you’d prefer to make chicken thighs, be sure to try out this air fryer chicken thighs recipe!
  • Add a delicious sauce like this white bbq sauce or Peruvian green sauce, or lemon butter sauce.

Storing leftovers

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It will also keep in the freezer for up to three months, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.

Reheating air fryer chicken breasts

Chicken reheats best on the stove. Add it to a small skillet with a splash of water or broth and heat until the chicken is warmed through.

These delicious chicken breasts are tasty in these Gyro Bowls, Street Corn Chicken Tacos and Southwest Chicken Salad.

Can you bake chicken in an air fryer

FAQ

Can you put raw chicken in an air fryer?

Of course! The air fryer is great for cooking chicken breasts or thighs. Just be sure to cook them thoroughly according to the time charts below.

Why is my air fryer chicken tough?

The most likely reason for tough chicken in the air fryer is overcooking. Be sure to cook it to only 160-degrees and then allow it to rest for 5-minutes tented with foil.

Do you have to flip chicken in the air fryer?

For best results, you should flip your chicken in the air fryer halfway through. This ensures even cooking. However, if you forget, it will still be fine. You may just end up with some overcooked areas.

Do you have to brine it?

If you have the time, a brine can result in extra juicy chicken. However, it is definitely not necessary! This recipe, which is coated in a dry rub, comes out extremely juicy and flavorful!

Wine pairings for chicken breasts

These choices pair nicely with a light meat chicken.

  • Sauvignon Blanc
  • Chardonnay
  • MORE —> the BEST Chicken Wine Pairings
Can you bake chicken in an air fryer

Favorite sides with chicken breasts

  • Green Bean Fries
  • Roasted Sweet Potatoes
  • Sauteed Spinach
  • Potato Salad
  • Roasted Sunchokes
  • Instant Pot Corn on the Cob
  • Shaved Fennel and Celery Salad
  • Kale Caesar Salad
  • Click here for MORE side dishes to serve with chicken

Did you make these Air Fryer Chicken Breasts?

If you loved this air fryer chicken breast recipe I would appreciate it so much if you would give it a star review! Also, be sure to snap a picture of your finished dish and share it with me on Instagram using the hashtag #platingsandpairings and tagging me @platingsandpairings.

For more great Platings and Pairings recipes, be sure to follow me on  InstagramTikTokPinterest and Facebook.

More air fryer recipes:

  • Air Fryer Buffalo Wings
  • Air Fryer Toasted Ravioli
  • Pasta Chips
  • Air Fryer Baked Potatoes
  • Air Fried Chicken Tenders
  • Air Fryer Meatloaf
  • Air Fryer Chinese Chicken Wings

Can you bake chicken in an air fryer

  • 1 Tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon oregano
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

  • In a small bowl combine the salt and spices with oil to create a paste. Coat chicken breasts with the paste.

  • Place in the air fryer basket and cook at 370-degrees for 10 minutes. Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 4-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160-degrees.

  • Tent the chicken with tin foil and allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Calories: 326kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 48g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 145mg | Sodium: 1000mg | Potassium: 870mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 325IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 24mg | Iron: 1mg

More easy chicken recipes:

  • Mongolian Chicken
  • Instant Pot Chicken Breasts
  • Chicken Larb Gai Recipe (Thai Lettuce Wraps)
  • Chicken Gyro Bowls with Quinoa
  • Easy Roasted Chicken
  • Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Cheddar-Mustard Sauce

Web Story: https://www.platingsandpairings.com/web-stories/air-fryer-chicken-breasts/

How long should you air fry a chicken bake?

Air fry your chicken bakes for 6 minutes at 160c/320f, then spray again and continue cooking for another 8 minutes at 200c/400f.

Can I put raw chicken in the air fryer?

Yes, you put raw frozen chicken in the air fryer! You won't be able to brine it first or pound it to an even thickness (so the results are not *as* juicy) but if you forget to thaw your chicken, it's a great option to have on hand.

Can you do baking in an air fryer?

You can also use the air fryer to make baked goods. Baking food in the air fryer can be beneficial because you'll save time by not having to preheat the oven. It's also a good choice for people who are avoiding firing up the oven during hot summer months or if you only want to make a few cookies at a time.

How long should you cook a chicken breast in the air fryer?

Sprinkle an equal amount of the rub on both sides of the chicken, and work it into the meat with your hands. Coat the air fryer basket with baking spray, and add the chicken breasts to it. Set the air fryer to 400°F and cook for 8 minutes (or until the chicken reaches 162°F). Flip the chicken at the 4-minute mark.