I always cook chicken breasts in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) because the higher temperature helps to keep the juices inside. It usually takes between 13 to 20 minutes, depending on the size of the breasts, but don’t forget to turn them halfway through.
How Long to Cook a Chicken Breast in an Air Fryer?
For small breasts (less than 8 ounces), it might take less time – around 13 minutes. And always use a thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (73°C).
Chicken breasts are done when an instant-read/meat thermometer shows 73°C/165°F. The meat will be opaque white inside but still juicy and tender at perfect doneness.
Tips for cooking
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking. This tenderizes the meat and helps the chicken breasts cook evenly.
- Spread the chicken breasts in a single layer in the air fryer basket to cook evenly. This is not the time to stack as many chicken breasts as possible on top of each other. (If cooking for a large group, try cooking chicken breasts in a slow cooker or the oven.)
- Turn the chicken halfway through the cooking time for even cooking.
- For variety, marinate the chicken with this chicken marinade instead of the seasoning mix.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing or serving. This waiting time allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
Always try to buy organic or free-range chicken. It is free of antibiotics and hormones.
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Can it be prepared in advance?
The chicken can be seasoned a day before cooking and stored covered in the fridge. Let the chicken reach room temperature before cooking. Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Chilled chicken can be shredded and stored in the freezer for up to a month for quick and easy meals. This recipe is great for meal prep and use in salads, sandwiches, and more.
Serving Suggestions
This juicy air fryer chicken recipe pairs well with any of your favorite sides. Mashed potatoes, green beans, Brussels sprouts, air fryer asparagus, or arugula salad are all great ideas. Here are a few more excellent sides:
- Arugula salad
- Mashed potatoes
- Green beans
- Brussels sprouts
- Air fryer asparagus
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Storage and Meal Prep Tips for Baked Chicken Breasts
You can prepare these chicken breasts in advance to make meal prep easier later.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- After cooling, slice or shred (if needed) and freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- You can reheat cooked chicken breasts in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheat the air fryer before adding the chicken. Or reheat gently in the microwave or oven. To keep the chicken juicy when reheating in the oven or microwave, add a bit of water to the dish with the chicken and cover to retain moisture.
Nutritionist Tips
- For children, add some fruit to the dish, like apple slices or grapes. Fruits will add a sweet taste and more vitamins.
- Use fresh herbs and spices like rosemary, thyme, basil, or garlic instead of ready-made seasoning mixes that may contain a lot of salt and preservatives.
- Add superfoods like chia seeds, flax seeds, or hemp seeds to marinades or sides. They will add extra nutrients to the dish.
