Air Fryer Grilled Chicken

Looking for a healthy grilled chicken recipe that’s quick and easy? This Air Fryer Grilled Chicken is the perfect option for busy weeknights or meal prep. Made with chicken breasts, olive oil, and a delicious blend of seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika, this recipe delivers juicy, tender chicken every time. With just 20 minutes of cooking in the air fryer, you get a flavorful, low-calorie protein-packed meal without the need for grilling. Perfect for those on a low-carb, high-protein, or healthy eating plan, this recipe is a must-try for fast, flavorful meals.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds Springer Mountain Farms perfectly portioned 4 oz chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 ¾ teaspoon salt
• 1 ¼ teaspoon paprika

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and place them in a large mixing bowl.
2. Make the Seasoning Mix: In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and paprika.
3. Coat the Chicken: Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and toss to coat evenly. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the chicken and rub it in to ensure each piece is evenly coated.
4. Prep the Air Fryer: Lightly brush the bottom of the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking.
5. Arrange the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overlapping. There should be space between each piece for even cooking.
6. Air Fry the Chicken: Set the air fryer to 380°F and cook for 10 minutes.
7. Flip and Continue Cooking: After 10 minutes, flip the chicken over and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
8. Check the Internal Temperature: At the 10-minute mark, check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach 165°F to be fully cooked. If any pieces are not yet at temperature, continue cooking in 3-minute intervals until they reach 165°F.
9. Rest the Chicken: Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This air fryer grilled chicken cooks in just 20 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or meal prep option.
• Juicy and Tender: The air fryer locks in moisture, ensuring that the chicken is perfectly cooked and juicy every time.
• Flavorful: With the blend of garlic, onion, paprika, and salt, the seasoning creates a flavorful, smoky grilled taste without the need for a grill.
• Healthy and Lean: Using chicken breasts and minimal oil, this recipe offers a lean, protein-packed meal that is low in calories but high in flavor.

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Tips

• Even Coating: Make sure to rub the seasoning evenly over the chicken for consistent flavor.
• Spacing is Key: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, as this can prevent the chicken from cooking evenly.
• Internal Temperature: Always check the chicken’s internal temperature to ensure it’s fully cooked. The safe temperature for poultry is 165°F.
• Resting Time: Letting the chicken rest after cooking helps retain its juices, keeping it tender and moist.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Seasoning Variations: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings such as lemon pepper, Italian herbs, or Cajun seasoning for a new twist.
• Oil Alternatives: If you prefer, you can use avocado oil or another cooking oil in place of olive oil.
• Bone-In Chicken: If using bone-in chicken breasts, adjust the cooking time by adding an extra 5-7 minutes per side to ensure they cook thoroughly.

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FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
It’s best to use fresh or fully thawed chicken breasts for this recipe to ensure even cooking. If using frozen, increase the cooking time and check the internal temperature regularly.

Can I cook more than 1 batch at a time?
Yes, but remember not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches to ensure it cooks evenly.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

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Serving Suggestions

This air fryer grilled chicken is incredibly versatile! Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or mashed potatoes for a well-rounded meal. You can also slice it and add it to wraps, sandwiches, or salads for a protein-packed lunch. For a complete meal, try pairing it with a dipping sauce such as BBQ sauce, ranch, or a tangy mustard sauce.