Print

How Long to Cook Thin Chicken Breast in Air Fryer

How Long to Cook Thin Chicken Breast in Air Fryer

Quick and easy air fryer recipe for perfectly juicy and tender thin chicken breasts. This method uses a precise cooking time and temperature to lock in moisture while delivering a golden-brown, flavorful crust with minimal oil and cleanup.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Thin Chicken Breasts: 4 evenly sliced pieces (about 4-6 oz each)
  • Olive Oil or Cooking Spray: 1-2 teaspoons lightly coat the chicken
  • Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste
  • Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste
  • Optional Herbs and Spices: 1/2 teaspoon paprika, garlic powder, dried thyme, or your favorite dried herbs

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (182°C). This temperature helps cook the chicken evenly without drying it out.
  2. Prepare the Chicken Breasts: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Lightly coat each piece with olive oil or cooking spray. Season evenly with salt, pepper, and any optional herbs or spices you prefer.
  3. Arrange in the Basket: Place the chicken breasts in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure proper air circulation and even cooking.
  4. Cook the Chicken: Cook at 360°F for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping the breasts halfway through cooking. Begin checking for doneness around 8 minutes to prevent overcooking.
  5. Check for Doneness: Use an instant-read thermometer to confirm the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C), ensuring the chicken is safe and juicy.
  6. Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking. This step allows the juices to redistribute for tender, moist meat.

Notes

  • Trim chicken breasts evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
  • Use light oil such as olive or avocado oil to achieve a golden crust without excess grease.
  • Flip chicken halfway through cooking for even crispness and heat distribution.
  • Never skip resting the meat after cooking to retain juiciness.
  • Experiment with different seasonings and herbs to customize flavor.
  • If cooking from frozen, increase cooking time to 12-15 minutes and ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  • Marinate chicken before cooking for extra moisture and flavor, but pat dry before placing in air fryer.
  • Reheat leftovers gently at 320°F for 3-4 minutes in the air fryer to maintain moisture.

Nutrition

Keywords: thin chicken breast, air fryer chicken, quick chicken recipe, healthy chicken, gluten free chicken, juicy chicken breasts