Air Fryer Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast

Expertly seasoned and cooked to juicy perfection, these air fryer boneless skinless chicken breasts are perfect for a quick meal any day of the week. No need for breading, just a few common ingredients to create a mouthwatering seasoning blend and incredibly juicy and tender chicken breasts.

Why I Love This Recipe

Cooking boneless, skinless chicken breast in the air fryer is honestly one of my favorite ways to make it. It’s so easy, super healthy, and works for pretty much anything—meal prep, salads, sandwiches, you name it. I love that there’s no breading to fuss with, just a simple blend of seasonings that brings out amazing flavor without overcomplicating things. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll keep coming back to because it’s just that good and so practical.

Simple Seasoning Blend

For this recipe, we’ll use a simple dry rub to season the chicken without the need for breading. The blend of spices creates a savory and flavorful profile, making each bite delicious.

Smoked Paprika: Adds a rich, smoky depth without heat. Unlike regular paprika, which is mild and often used for color, smoked paprika brings bold, earthy notes that enhance the overall taste.

Ground Mustard: Provides a subtle tang and sharpness that complements the smoky flavor of the paprika. This is often the “secret” ingredient for great chicken rub mixes.

Oregano: Adds a touch of herbal freshness and balances the savory elements of the rub.

Onion Powder & Garlic Powder: These two work together to create a savory and aromatic foundation

Salt & Pepper: Essential for bringing out all the flavors in the rub and ensuring the chicken is perfectly seasoned.

Preparation

Start with two fresh boneless, skinless chicken breasts of about 6-8 oz each. If they are much larger, cut them in half horizontally. If the chicken if very thick, you’ll get the best results by pounding them to a more uniform thickness. Use a meat mallet or even a rolling pin with the chicken between pieces of plastic wrap. We want the chicken breasts to be about ½″-¾″ thick.

You’ll want to preheat your air fryer at 360°(F) for 5 minutes. While the air fryer is preheating, lightly brush the chicken breasts with a little extra-virgin olive oil and liberally add the seasoning mix. Don’t be shy, get it on there as much as will stick to the chicken. When the air fryer is ready, add the chicken to the basket or tray and spritz with just a little oil. This will help to give the seasoning rub just a bit of a crispness and to seal in the natural juices.

Air Fry at 360°(F) for 10-14 minutes

With your seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer, use the air fry setting at 360°(F) for 10-14 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken breasts. Flip halfway through cooking time. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 160°(F) in the thickest part of the meat. You can always add another minute or two if necessary. The chicken will continue cooking after we remove from air fryer to reach 165°F.

Let the Meat Rest Before Serving

When the chicken is done, carefully remove from the air fryer to a plate and lightly cover with foil and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. Then you’re ready to serve and enjoy!

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