Craving a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal? This Lemon Herb Air Fryer Chicken Breast recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken every time, making it a perfect addition to your collection of Healthy Air Fryer Recipes. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare this delicious dish.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chicken Breast: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Chicken thighs also work but may require slightly longer cooking.
- Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest are best. Bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, but the flavor won’t be as bright.
- Herbs: Dried Italian seasoning is convenient. Feel free to use fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for an enhanced flavor.
- Olive Oil: A little oil helps the seasoning stick and keeps the chicken moist. Avocado oil is a good alternative.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
Spices:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 2-3
- Calories per serving: Approximately 280-320 kcal (depending on chicken size)
- Tools Needed: Air fryer, mixing bowl, tongs
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If your chicken breasts are very thick, you can butterfly them or pound them to an even ½-inch thickness. This ensures they cook evenly.
2. Make the Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
3. Marinate the Chicken
Add the prepared chicken breasts to the bowl with the marinade. Toss the chicken until it is thoroughly coated. You can marinate for at least 10 minutes, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
4. Preheat Your Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes. This helps achieve a crispy exterior. Don’t overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if necessary.
5. Air Fry the Chicken
Place the marinated chicken breasts in a single layer in the preheated air fryer basket. Cook for 8-10 minutes, then flip the chicken. Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Rest and Serve
Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and tender. Serve your delicious Lemon Herb Air Fryer Chicken Breast immediately.
Variation Ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a little heat.
- Smoky Flavor: Include a ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika in the seasoning blend.
- Garlic Lover’s: Increase the garlic powder or add 1-2 cloves of minced fresh garlic.
- Herb Twist: Experiment with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or dill after cooking.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover Lemon Herb Air Fryer Chicken Breast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave it, but the air fryer will maintain a better texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can you put raw chicken in an air fryer?
Yes, you can absolutely put raw chicken directly into the air fryer. This recipe is one of many healthy air fryer recipes that starts with raw chicken.
Do you need to flip chicken in the air fryer?
Flipping the chicken halfway through cooking is recommended to ensure even cooking and browning on both sides.
How do you know when air fryer chicken is done?
Chicken is fully cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) as measured with a meat thermometer in the thickest part.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
For best results, thaw chicken breasts completely before marinating and air frying. Frozen chicken will not absorb the marinade well and will require a much longer cooking time.
Why is my air fryer chicken dry?
Overcooking is the most common reason for dry chicken. Use a meat thermometer to avoid exceeding 165°F (74°C), and ensure you let the chicken rest after cooking.
Can I make this recipe with other cuts of chicken?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or tenders. Adjust the cooking time accordingly; thighs might take a bit longer, while tenders will cook faster.
