Looking for a healthy, quick, and flavorful grilled chicken recipe? This Air Fryer Grilled Chicken is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or meal prep! With just 20 minutes of cooking, this recipe combines tender chicken breasts, olive oil, and a simple yet delicious blend of garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika to deliver juicy, flavorful chicken every time. It’s ideal for low-carb, high-protein, or healthy eating plans, offering a satisfying meal without the hassle of a grill.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds Springer Mountain Farms perfectly portioned 4 oz chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 ¾ teaspoon salt
- 1 ¼ teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Make the Seasoning Mix: In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and paprika.
- Coat the Chicken: Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken breasts, tossing to coat them evenly. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the chicken and rub it in to ensure even coverage.
- Prepare the Air Fryer: Lightly brush the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent the chicken from sticking.
- Arrange the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overlapping. This allows for even cooking.
- Air Fry the Chicken: Set the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and cook for 10 minutes.
- Flip and Continue Cooking: After 10 minutes, flip the chicken breasts over and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
- Check the Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked. If not, continue cooking in 3-minute intervals until the desired temperature is reached.
- Rest the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
- Juicy and Tender: The air fryer locks in moisture, giving you perfectly cooked, juicy chicken every time.
- Flavorful: A simple seasoning blend creates a smoky, savory taste without the need for a grill.
- Healthy: With minimal oil and lean chicken breasts, this recipe is low in calories but high in protein.
Tips:
- Ensure Even Coating: Rub the seasoning mixture evenly across the chicken for consistent flavor.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket, as this can hinder even cooking.
- Check Internal Temperature: Always check the chicken’s internal temperature to guarantee it’s fully cooked. Poultry should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest after cooking for 5-10 minutes to help retain its juices.
Variations and Substitutions:
- Seasoning Variations: Experiment with different seasonings such as lemon pepper, Cajun seasoning, or Italian herbs for a new twist.
- Oil Alternatives: You can swap olive oil for avocado oil or any cooking oil of your choice.
- Bone-In Chicken: If using bone-in chicken breasts, increase the cooking time by 5-7 minutes per side to ensure thorough cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
It’s best to use fresh or fully thawed chicken breasts for even cooking. If using frozen, extend the cooking time and check the internal temperature regularly. - Can I cook more than 1 batch at a time?
Yes, you can cook in batches, but make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow for proper air circulation. - How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions:
This air fryer grilled chicken is incredibly versatile! Serve it with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal. You can also slice it and use it for wraps, sandwiches, or salads for a protein-packed lunch. Pair it with your favorite dipping sauce like BBQ, ranch, or mustard for an extra flavor boost.
This Air Fryer Grilled Chicken is a simple, healthy, and delicious option for busy days when you need a meal that’s quick, nutritious, and satisfying. Try it today and enjoy juicy, flavorful chicken without the need for grilling!