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Ridiculously Good Air Fryer Chicken Breast Recipe

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3.9 from 157 reviews

This Ridiculously Good Air Fryer Chicken Breast recipe features thinly sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts coated in a flavorful blend of spices, brown sugar, and cornstarch, then air fried to golden, juicy perfection. Quick and easy, this recipe delivers tender, crispy chicken perfect for a family meal or a tasty protein-packed snack.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 2-4 servings

Ingredients

The Spices

  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt (Morton table salt recommended)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch

The Chicken

  • 2 teaspoons avocado oil
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (for 1.5 pounds, increase spices by 1.5x)

Instructions

  1. Cut the chicken into thin pieces: Slice each chicken breast into thin, flat pieces—approximately 3-4 pieces per breast for a one-pound package. Pat the chicken dry if it has excess moisture to ensure better spice adherence.
  2. Coat the chicken with spices: Mix all the spices together thoroughly, then sprinkle over the chicken pieces in a bowl. Add the avocado oil and toss everything to coat the chicken evenly using your hands or tongs. Optionally, let it rest briefly for better flavor absorption, though it can go straight to cooking.
  3. Air fry the chicken: Preheat the air fryer to 415°F (210°C). Place the chicken pieces in a single even layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space for air circulation. Air fry for 10 minutes for thinner pieces; thicker pieces may need up to 13 minutes. Verify that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
  4. Rest and serve: Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest a moment to lock in juices. Slice and serve immediately. This chicken is deliciously crispy outside, juicy inside, and pairs wonderfully with dipping sauces like a house-made gochujang mayo.

Notes

  • Adjust salt amount based on chicken weight: Use 3/4 teaspoon table salt for 1 pound, 1 teaspoon for 1.5 pounds, or 1 teaspoon kosher salt per pound.
  • Marinating: Allows up to 24 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor, but add cornstarch right before cooking for best results.
  • Paprika: Use regular ground paprika for color and mild flavor. Smoked paprika adds richness but is subtle in this blend.
  • Seasoning shortcut: Substitute McCormick Rotisserie Chicken Seasoning (about 1 tablespoon per pound) in place of paprika, salt, onion, and garlic powders, then add brown sugar and cornstarch.
  • Gochujang dipping sauce: Mix 1/2 cup mayo, 2 tablespoons gochujang sauce, 1 clove grated garlic, a splash of soy sauce, and optional rice vinegar. Season with salt and pepper for a flavorful dip.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10-13 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://recipesvibe.com/ridiculously-good-air-fryer-chicken-breast-recipe/