Get ready for some juicy chicken with a crispy crust, all made in the air fryer! This recipe keeps things simple with just a few seasonings that pack a punch.
I love how quick this dish is! Just season the chicken, pop it in the air fryer, and in no time, you’re enjoying a crunchy, tasty meal. Perfect for a busy weeknight!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you prefer thighs, go ahead! They’re a bit richer and very tasty.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the crust crisp up. You can swap it with avocado oil or vegetable oil if that’s what you have on hand.
All-Purpose Flour: This gives that lovely coating. For a gluten-free option, use almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
Seasonings: The mix of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder adds great flavor. Feel free to adjust the spice levels or use any favorite seasoning mix!
Cayenne Pepper: This is optional for heat. If you want less spice, omit it, or add a pinch when you’re comfortable with it.
How Can I Get the Chicken Super Crispy?
Getting that delicious, crispy crust is all about the right technique. Here’s how:
- First, make sure to pat the chicken dry. Removing excess moisture helps the coating stick better and become crispier.
- Brush the chicken with olive oil before dredging in flour. This step is key for crispness!
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer. Leave some space for air to circulate, which is essential for evenly cooked, crispy chicken.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows juices to settle and keeps it moist.
Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Breasts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- Cooking spray
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe is quick and easy! You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation and about 20 minutes for cooking. In total, you should have delicious, crispy chicken ready in about 35 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This usually takes about 5 minutes. Preheating helps the chicken cook more evenly and achieve that crispy texture!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This step is important because it removes excess moisture, ensuring a better crust. The dryer the chicken, the crispier the coating will be!
3. Make the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if you’re using it). This flavorful mixture will give your chicken a tasty kick!
4. Coat the Chicken:
Brush each chicken breast lightly with olive oil. This helps the flour stick and adds moisture. Then, dredge the chicken in the seasoned flour mixture. Make sure to press gently so the coating adheres well.
5. Prepare the Air Fryer Basket:
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent the chicken from sticking. This will help achieve that golden crispy finish.
6. Air Fry the Chicken:
Place the coated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap. This allows the hot air to circulate freely around the chicken.
7. Cooking Time:
Cook the chicken for 10 minutes at 375°F, then carefully flip them over and cook for another 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C) when done, and the outside should be golden and crispy.
8. Let It Rest:
Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes. This step keeps them juicy!
Enjoy your crispy, juicy air fryer chicken breasts as a main dish or in a salad or wrap! Happy cooking!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great choice and can be more juicy and flavorful. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless, and adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer due to their thickness, typically around 12-15 minutes per side.
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No problem! If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or even chili powder can work as a substitute. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through and crispy again. You can also use the microwave but it may lose some crispiness.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Flour?
Yes! You can skip the flour for a low-carb option and instead use crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a gluten-free alternative. The texture will be slightly different, but still tasty!
