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How to Cook Chicken Breast in an Air Fryer

Cooking chicken breast in an air fryer is a quick and convenient way to prepare a healthy meal. With its ability to cook food evenly and quickly, the air fryer produces juicy chicken breast with a golden, crispy exterior. In this guide, we’ll take you through the steps to perfect your air-fried chicken breast, including preparation, cooking times, and handy tips.

What You’ll Need

• Ingredients:

  • 2 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • Optional: garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or your favourite herbs (e.g., thyme, rosemary)
• Equipment:
  • Air fryer
  • Meat thermometer (optional, but recommended)
  • Mixing bowl
  • Tongs or a spatula

Preparation

1. Thaw the Chicken:
   If you’re using frozen chicken breasts, ensure they are thoroughly thawed before cooking. This can be done overnight in the fridge or by using the defrost setting on your microwave.

2. Flatten the Chicken:
   For even cooking, consider flattening the chicken breasts. Place them between two sheets of cling film and pound them gently with a meat mallet or rolling pin until they’re an even thickness (around 1 to 1.5 inches thick).

3. Marinate the Chicken:
   In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you desire. Coat the chicken breasts in the marinade, ensuring they’re well covered. Allow them to marinate for at least 30 minutes – or even overnight in the fridge for enhanced flavour.

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
   Set your air fryer to preheat at 200°C (about 390°F) for around 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures a proper sear on the chicken and enhances the cooking process.

2. Place the Chicken in the Air Fryer:
   Arrange the marinated chicken breasts in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Ensure they’re not overlapping, as this allows for proper air circulation, enabling even cooking.

3. Cooking Time:
   Cook the chicken at 200°C for approximately 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. The exact time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts and the model of your air fryer.

4. Check for Doneness:
   The internal temperature of the chicken breast should reach a minimum of 75°C (165°F). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part of the chicken to ensure it is no longer pink and the juices run clear.

5. Rest the Chicken:
   Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and cover it loosely with aluminium foil. Allow it to rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier chicken breast.

Tips for Perfect Air-Fried Chicken Breast

• Avoid Overcrowding: Cooking too many chicken breasts at once can lead to uneven cooking. If necessary, cook in batches.

• Experiment with Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to get creative with your marinades and seasonings. A mix of herbs, spices, and even a splash of lemon juice can elevate the flavours significantly.

• Try Different Cuts: While chicken breast is a popular choice, thighs and drumsticks can also be cooked in an air fryer with excellent results.

• Serving Suggestions: Serve your air-fried chicken breasts with a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or in a wrap for a healthy meal option.

Conclusion

Cooking chicken breast in an air fryer is not only simple but also yields delicious results. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create a meal that’s not only healthy but also satisfying. Whether it’s for a quick dinner or meal prep for the week, air-fried chicken breast is a versatile addition to any menu. Enjoy experimenting with flavours, and savour the ease of air-frying!