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Two perfectly cooked golden-brown air fryer chicken breasts resting on a wooden cutting board, with one sliced to reveal a juicy, tender interior.

Never Eat Dry Chicken Again: The #1 Fail-Proof Air Fryer Chicken Breasts

Chef Andrew
Tired of dry, tough chicken? Discover the #1 fail-proof method for the juiciest, most tender air fryer chicken breasts every time. This easy recipe is ready in about 20 minutes and is perfect for meal prep.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 14 minutes
Dry Brining Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 2 chicken breasts
Calories 237 kcal

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Instant-read thermometer
  • Meat Mallet

Ingredients
  

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 6-8 oz each
  • 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt for dry brining
  • 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil

For the Spice Rub

  • 1 teaspoon paprika smoked paprika recommended
  • 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
  • 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Pound for Evenness: Place chicken breasts on a cutting board, cover with plastic wrap, and pound the thicker end until the entire breast is an even ¾-inch thickness. This is the most crucial step.
  • Dry Brine for Moisture: Sprinkle the chicken all over with kosher salt. Place on a plate, uncovered, in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
  • Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper. Drizzle the chicken with olive oil, then rub the spice mixture evenly over all sides.
  • Air Fry: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place chicken in the basket, smooth-side down. Cook for 6 minutes.
  • Flip and Finish: Flip the chicken. Continue cooking for 2-8 more minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer registers 155-160°F. Do not overcook.
  • Rest for Juiciness: Immediately transfer chicken to a clean plate, cover loosely with foil, and let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. The chicken will continue to cook to a safe 165°F. This step is essential.

Notes

Chef's Pro-Tips

  • Pounding Evenly is Non-Negotiable: This ensures the chicken cooks at the same rate, preventing one end from drying out while the other is still raw. It's the #1 key to juicy chicken.
  • Trust the Thermometer, Not the Clock: Every air fryer and chicken breast is different. Pulling the chicken out at 155-160°F and letting it rest is the secret to a perfectly cooked, moist result.
  • Storage & Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer at 350°F until warm.
Keyword air fryer chicken breasts, healthy chicken recipe, juicy chicken breast, Meal Prep