Can I marinate the chicken longer for more flavor?

Yes! Let the chicken rest with the spices for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor. For best texture, add the cornstarch just before air frying.

What if my air fryer runs a little hot or cold?

Every air fryer is different, so keep an eye on the chicken the first time you make it. Use an instant-read thermometer and pull the chicken as soon as it reaches 165°F in the thickest part—overcooking is the enemy of juicy chicken!

Can I use this seasoning on other proteins or vegetables?

Definitely. This blend is great on turkey cutlets, pork chops, or even tofu. Try it tossed with broccoli, bell peppers, or sliced zucchini before air frying for a boldly seasoned veggie side.

Ridiculously Good Air Fryer Chicken Breast Recipe

Name: Ridiculously Good Air Fryer Chicken Breast Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 3/4 teaspoon salt (Morton table salt recommended); 1 1/2 teaspoons brown sugar; 1 teaspoon cornstarch; 2 teaspoons avocado oil; 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts

Description

This Ridiculously Good Air Fryer Chicken Breast recipe promises juicy, flavorful chicken in just 20 minutes. Thinly sliced breasts are coated in a simple savory-sweet spice blend with a hint of smoky paprika, then air fried to crispy perfection. Ideal for quick weeknight meals, salads, or wraps, this recipe is perfect for those who want a healthy, satisfying main course with minimal effort and maximum taste.

Ingredients

Units Scale

The Spices

1 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
3/4 teaspoon salt (Morton table salt recommended)
1 1/2 teaspoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon cornstarch

The Chicken

2 teaspoons avocado oil
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts

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Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Cut each chicken breast into thin, flat pieces (not bite-sized but about 3-4 thin pieces per breast if using two breasts). Pat dry if there’s excess moisture. Thin pieces ensure even cooking and juiciness.
Mix and Coat with Spices: In a bowl, mix all the spices together until well combined. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the chicken pieces. Add avocado oil and toss thoroughly to coat each piece. You can use your hands or tongs for mixing. Marinate for a short time at room temperature, or proceed directly to cooking for quick meals.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to preheat at 415°F (213°C). Preheating ensures even cooking and crisping.
Air Fry the Chicken: Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on the grate, leaving space between each piece for proper air circulation. Air fry for 10 minutes. For larger or thicker pieces, air fry up to 13 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and has a crispy, golden exterior.
Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after cooking to retain its juices. Slice and serve immediately. Enjoy as-is, or paired with your favorite dipping sauce, such as a homemade gochujang mayo.

Notes

Salt Adjustment: Use 3/4 tsp of table salt for 1 pound of chicken; increase to 1 tsp if using 1.5 pounds. If using coarse kosher salt, use 1 tsp for 1 pound.
Marinating: You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours in the fridge with the spices, but add the cornstarch just before air frying for best coating.
Paprika Info: Standard paprika is recommended for best color and balanced flavor, with a hint of smoked paprika for depth.
Easy Spice Blend Option: Substitute the spice blend with 1 tablespoon McCormick Rotisserie Chicken Seasoning for 1 pound chicken, plus brown sugar and cornstarch.
Gochujang Dipping Sauce: Mix 1/2 cup mayo, 2 tablespoons gochujang table sauce, 1 grated garlic clove, a shot of soy sauce, and a dash of rice vinegar. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 pound (approx. 4 oz) chicken breast
Calories: 180
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 690mg
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 0.7g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fiber: 0.5g
Protein: 29g
Cholesterol: 75mg