This easy air fryer grilled chicken is juicy and full of flavor! With simple spices and quick cooking, it’s perfect for any meal. You’ll love how you can have dinner ready in no time!
I enjoy serving this chicken with a fresh salad or some rice. It’s so tasty that even my picky eaters ask for seconds. Who knew healthy could be this easy and delicious? 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe as they cook fast and stay juicy. If you’re looking for alternatives, chicken thighs work great too and are a bit more forgiving in terms of moisture!
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the spices stick. If you prefer, you can use avocado oil or any neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil; they have similar properties.
Spices: Garlic powder and smoked paprika bring flavor without adding calories. Feel free to substitute garlic powder with fresh minced garlic (1 clove is good) or switch paprika with regular paprika or chili powder for some heat!
Dried Oregano: Though optional, it adds extra flavor. You can swap it out with Italian seasoning or use fresh oregano if you have it on hand.
How Do You Get Chicken Breasts Juicy in the Air Fryer?
To ensure your chicken stays juicy in the air fryer, start with some basic steps. First, pat your chicken dry to help the spices stick better. The olive oil not only adds flavor but also locks in moisture. Make sure the chicken is seasoned well to avoid blandness.
- Preheat your air fryer—this ensures even cooking right from the start.
- Avoid overcrowding: Tossing in too many pieces at once leads to uneven cooking; keep them in a single layer.
- Flipping halfway through is key for even cooking, so don’t skip that step!
- Finally, let the chicken rest after cooking; this helps redistribute the juices throughout the meat.
Easy Air Fryer Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Cooking spray (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 5 minutes to prep, and around 15-18 minutes to cook in the air fryer. In total, you’ll spend just under 30 minutes to have delicious grilled chicken ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer:
Start by setting your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes. This ensures even cooking as soon as you put the chicken in.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the air fryer heats up, take your chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to get a nice sear on the outside.
3. Make the Spice Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, onion powder, and oregano. Stir everything together until it forms a well-mixed paste.
4. Season the Chicken:
Take the spice mixture and brush or rub it evenly over each chicken breast. Make sure every bit of chicken is covered in those tasty spices!
5. Prepare the Air Fryer Basket:
If desired, lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. This step is optional, but it can help keep the chicken from sticking.
6. Cook the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap. Cook the chicken at 380°F for 10 minutes.
7. Flip and Finish Cooking:
After the first 10 minutes, flip the chicken breasts over and cook for an additional 6-8 minutes. You’re looking for the internal temperature to reach 165°F (74°C) for safe eating.
8. Let it Rest:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep the juices inside for a super juicy bite!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the chicken and serve it with your favorite sides or salads. Enjoy your easy and flavorful air fryer grilled chicken!
Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Air Fryer Grilled Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
It’s best to use thawed chicken for this recipe, as cooking frozen chicken will result in uneven cooking. If you only have frozen chicken, thaw it in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method—place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water until thawed.
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh, you can also wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave or on the stove to avoid drying it out.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Before Cooking?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) will add extra flavor and tenderness. You can use the spice mixture from the recipe and add more olive oil or some lemon juice for a delicious marinade.
What Sides Pair Well with Air Fryer Grilled Chicken?
This chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or fluffy rice. You can also enjoy it in wraps or sandwiches for a tasty lunch option!
