Description
Juicy and flavorful air fryer chicken breasts with a simple seasoning blend and optional quick brine for extra tenderness.
Ingredients
- 4 8-oz boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups water
- 1/4 cup sea salt (for brine)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Optional: In a large bowl, stir 1/4 cup sea salt into 4 cups water. Add chicken breasts and submerge. Let sit for 10 minutes at room temperature or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.
- Rinse the chicken to remove brine and pat dry thoroughly.
- Brush both sides with olive oil. Season evenly with garlic powder, sea salt, paprika, and black pepper.
- Place chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap.
- Air fry at 400°F (204°C) until the internal temperature reaches 163–165°F (73–74°C). Cook 7–10 minutes for small breasts, 10–12 minutes for medium, or 12–16 minutes for large.
- Remove from the air fryer, cover with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Brining enhances moisture and flavor but can be skipped if short on time.
- Always pat chicken dry to help seasoning stick and improve texture.
- Use a meat thermometer for accurate doneness.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Slice and use in salads, wraps, or grain bowls.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fry
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 52 g
- Cholesterol: 145 mg
