Air Fryer Chicken Breast

As someone who’s tested dozens of air fryer recipes, I can say with confidence: this is one of the easiest and most versatile meals you can make. I've also made Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Chicken Breast and Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu so I know how to cook chicken breast in the air fryer. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Perfectly cooked, every time – No dry chicken here!
• Quick + no mess – Cooks in 15 minutes with minimal cleanup.
• No breading needed – Great for low-carb, gluten-free, or WW lifestyles.
• Easy to customize – Use any seasoning blend or sauce you love.
• Great for meal prep – Make a few breasts ahead of time for salads, bowls, wraps, and more.

• Chicken Breast - make sure the chicken breasts are even in size for proper cooking. Use an oven read thermometer for proper doneness
• Seasoning - I have a few ideas on how you can season your chicken breast below but I like to use Dano's seasoning.
• Olive oil for brushing on top of the chicken - or olive oil cooking spray

See recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities

Substitution Tips

• Oil swap: Use avocado oil spray for a lighter option.
• Seasoning ideas: Try Cajun seasoning, lemon pepper, taco seasoning, or everything bagel blend.
• Prefer thighs? This recipe works great with boneless skinless chicken thighs — just reduce cook time slightly.

Looking for more air fryer protein options? Try my Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu or Air Fryer Lamb Chops with Garlic and Rosemary

Step 1: Set your air fryer to 400 degrees.

Step 2: Slice your chicken breast in half and season your chicken breast with salt and pepper and then seasoning salt of choice. I like to use Trader Joe's Seasoning salt but again, use whatever you like or have on hand. Brush the chicken with olive oil.

Step 3: Place chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer and set the temperature to 400 degrees. Close the basket and set the timer at 7 minutes. After 7 minutes take the chicken out and flip and cook for another 4 minutes longer. Check for temperature doneness with an instant read thermometer.

Step 4 Take the cooked chicken breast out of the air fryer and serve it whatever way you like!

• Small Breasts (5 to 7 ounces): 7 to 10 minutes
• Medium Breasts (8 to 10 ounces): 10 to 12 minutes
• Large Breasts (11 ounces or more): 12 to 16 minutes

Pro Tips for Juicy Chicken

• Use a meat thermometer: It’s the key to never overcooking.
• Don’t skip the rest: Resting helps the juices redistribute.
• Pound thick parts down to help everything cook at the same rate.
• Batch cooking? Let each piece have space in the basket for air circulation.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

This chicken goes with everything! Try it with:

• 🥦 Air Fryer Broccoli or Zucchini - both zero points!
• 🥗 WW-friendly side salad with light vinaigrette like this Mexican Macaroni Salad!
• 🍠 Mashed sweet potatoes or Cauliflower rice
• 🥙 Wrap it in a low-carb tortilla for lunch the next day
• Use up that leftover chicken breast on top of salads. Summer Cobb Salad, Strawberry Poppyseed Chicken Salad, or Strawberry Salad with Balsamic Dressing
• Make Chicken Quesadillas
• Add to casseroles like my Buffalo Chicken Baked Ziti or Crack Chicken Lasagna Rollups