If you’re searching for a quick, healthy, and fuss-free way to cook chicken, look no further than this Best Air Fryer Chicken Breast Without Breading. The result? A tender, flavorful breast that’s perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or even summer grilling nights. With minimal ingredients and just 20 minutes of cook time, you’ll get moist chicken every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No breading – Keeps it low-carb and gluten-free.
- Super juicy – Air frying locks in moisture and flavor.
- Fast & easy – Ready in about 30 minutes, including rest.
- Family-friendly – Mild seasonings that everyone loves.
- Versatile – Use in salads, sandwiches, grain bowls, or on its own.
Ingredients (Serves 2)
- 2 chicken breasts (8–9 oz each)
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 Tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels and pierce both sides lightly with a fork. This helps the marinade penetrate deeper.
Step 2: Season
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and lemon juice. Rub this evenly over both sides of each chicken breast. Let it marinate for 5 minutes (or up to 30 for deeper flavor).
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F for about 5 minutes to ensure a crisp outer layer.
Step 4: Cook
Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10 minutes. Flip and cook for another 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 5: Rest Before Slicing
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes once it’s done. This seals in the juices, keeping it tender when slicing.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Even thickness – Pound thicker breasts to 1” for even cooking.
- Dry, then marinate – Helps the seasoning stick better.
- Check internal temp – Use a meat thermometer to hit the perfect 165°F.
- Spray for extra crisp – Lightly spray with oil halfway through cooking if you want a crunchier exterior.
- Rest is key – Always let your meat rest to preserve juices.
Serving Ideas
This chicken is incredibly versatile! Here are a few ideas:
- Chicken salad — Slice and layer over greens with vinaigrette.
- Grain bowls — Perfect on quinoa or brown rice with veggies.
- Sandwich filling — Add to wraps with avocado and fresh veggies.
- Main dish — Serve alongside roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli.
Make-Ahead and Storage
- Prep ahead: Marinate chicken and refrigerate for up to 8 hours before cooking.
- Cool then store: Keep cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- To reheat: Warm in a toaster oven or microwave. A quick 5-minute reheat in the air fryer also works well.
Why This Works
By roasting at 380°F, the chicken gets a perfectly crisp exterior without drying out. The simple spice blend enhances its natural flavor, while the lemon brightens each bite. With no breading, this recipe stays light and healthy—ideal for everyday cooking and special occasions alike.
Final Thoughts
If tenderness, flavor, and simplicity matter to you, these Best Air Fryer Chicken Breasts Without Breading are a must-try. Speedy, nutritious, and downright delicious, they’ll become your go-to recipe whether you’re prepping meals ahead or cooking dinner in a hurry.
Slice ’em, shred ’em, or serve whole—the possibilities are endless. Just remember the secret: prep, temp, and patience.
The Goods
Best Air Fryer Chicken Breast Without Breading
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Recipes
- 2 chicken breasts 8–9 oz each
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 Tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
- Pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels and pierce both sides lightly with a fork. This helps the marinade penetrate deeper.
Step 2: Season
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and lemon juice. Rub this evenly over both sides of each chicken breast. Let it marinate for 5 minutes (or up to 30 for deeper flavor).
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F for about 5 minutes to ensure a crisp outer layer.
Step 4: Cook
- Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10 minutes. Flip and cook for another 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 5: Rest Before Slicing
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes once it’s done. This seals in the juices, keeping it tender when slicing.
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