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Simple Air Fryer Chicken Breast Recipe for Beginners

If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious dinner option, look no further than this simple air fryer chicken breast recipe. Ideal for beginners, this dish combines ease of preparation with mouth-watering results. The air fryer method locks in moisture while creating a lovely golden crust, ensuring your chicken is tender and flavourful. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that will have you serving up succulent chicken in no time!

Why Use an Air Fryer?

Air fryers have gained popularity in kitchens across the UK and beyond due to their convenience and health benefits. By circulating hot air around the food, they can create a crispy exterior while using significantly less oil than traditional frying methods. This means you can enjoy delicious meals without the added guilt!

Ingredients

For this air fryer chicken breast recipe, you’ll need:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet, based on preference)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional: Fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary) for garnish and additional flavour

Equipment

• Air fryer
• Tongs or a spatula
• Meat thermometer (optional, but recommended)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels – this ensures a better sear and helps the seasoning stick.

Step 2: Seasoning

In a bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture evenly over both chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated. If you have the time, allow the chicken to marinate for 15-30 minutes for enhanced flavour, but this is entirely optional.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F). Preheating helps to achieve that perfect golden finish and ensures even cooking.

Step 4: Cooking the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket. Ensure they are not overcrowded and have space for the hot air to circulate. Cook for approximately 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time for even browning.

To check for doneness, use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F). If you don’t have a thermometer, make a small cut in the thickest part of one breast – the juices should run clear, and the meat should no longer be pink inside.

Step 5: Resting

Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the air fryer and allow them to rest for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and tender.

Step 6: Serve

Slice the chicken and serve immediately. This dish is incredibly versatile; pair it with a fresh salad, roast vegetables, or some fluffy rice. For an extra touch, sprinkle with fresh herbs before serving.

Tips for Success

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Air fryers work best when there’s space around the food for the air to circulate. If you’re cooking for a crowd, do it in batches.

2. Add Variety: Feel free to experiment with different spices or marinades for your chicken. Try adding lemon zest for brightness or Italian seasoning for a herby twist.

3. Store Leftovers Properly: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. They can easily be reheated in the air fryer for a quick meal.

Conclusion

This simple air fryer chicken breast recipe is a fantastic way to create a healthy, delicious meal with minimal effort. Perfect for beginners and busy families alike, this dish is sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation. So, dust off your air fryer, follow these easy steps, and enjoy the juicy, flavour-packed chicken that you’ve made! Happy cooking!

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