The only air fryer chicken breast you need! This recipe makes the most tender, juicy and flavorful chicken breasts. Make it for a quick meal or prep ahead to add into salads, sandwiches, wraps, or rice bowls.
Prepare the chicken: Score the smooth side of the chicken breasts in a crosshatch pattern. This helps the seasoning penetrate and ensures the chicken cooks evenly, while retaining moisture.
Season the chicken: Combine paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt and pepper in a bowl. Sprinkle the seasoning generously over both sides of the chicken breasts and rub it in well. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes. If you're not cooking it within 30 minutes, refrigerate it.
Prepare the garlic butter: In a small bowl, combine softened butter, grated garlic, and finely chopped parsley.
Coat the chicken: Once the chicken has absorbed the seasoning, rub the olive oil all over the chicken breasts to lightly coat them.
Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). If your air fryer does not require preheating, skip this.
Air fry the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, scored side down. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes.
Flip the chicken: After 5 minutes, flip the chicken breasts and coat the scored side with the garlic butter. Continue air frying for an additional 5-10 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken breasts. Larger breasts may need a bit more time to cook through.
Serve: Once cooked, transfer the chicken breasts onto a plate. Garnish with parsley and squeeze some lemon juice over it. Enjoy with some grilled or sautéed vegetables.
NOTES
At 375°F (190°C), small chicken breasts (6 oz/170g) will take 10 minutes, medium chicken breasts (8 oz/226g) will take 12 minutes and large chicken breasts (10 oz/280g) will take 15 minutes or more.
Use a thermometer for perfect results - The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once air fried, if the internal temperature has reached 160°F it will continue to cook while it rests.