Go Back

Herb-Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Breasts

This dish features tender chicken breasts seasoned with a flavorful herb and spice blend, cooked quickly in an air fryer to achieve a crispy exterior and juicy interior. The method emphasizes dry seasoning application and precise cooking time to create a visually appealing, golden-brown finish with a satisfying texture.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces chicken breasts patted dry
  • 1 tablespoon paprika smoked or sweet
  • 1 teaspoon thyme dried
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground if possible
  • 1 lemon lemon for squeezing over cooked chicken
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil spray helps seasoning adhere and adds crispness

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Meat thermometer
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels until the surface feels smooth and no moisture remains, which helps the seasoning stick better.
  2. In a small mixing bowl, combine paprika, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create an even herb and spice blend.
  3. Generously rub the spice mixture all over each chicken breast, pressing gently to ensure it adheres evenly to the surface.
  4. Spray the chicken breasts lightly with olive oil spray to help the spices stick and promote crispiness during cooking.
  5. Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F). Once ready, place the chicken breasts in the basket, skin-side down if applicable, leaving space between them for air circulation.
  6. Cook the chicken for 10 minutes, then flip each piece carefully using tongs or a spatula, and continue cooking for another 8-10 minutes until the outside is golden brown and the juices run clear.
  7. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 75°C (165°F) for safe, juicy chicken.
  8. Remove the chicken breasts from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes—this helps retain juices and keeps the meat tender.
  9. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cooked chicken for a bright, zesty finish, or serve with your favorite sauce.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the spice blend and lemon juice for 15 minutes before cooking. Adjust seasoning to taste, and ensure even sizing of chicken breasts for uniform cooking.