Description
This air fryer chicken breast recipe uses a lemon herb butter baste to ensure juicy, restaurant-quality results in just 15 minutes. It is a simple, reliable weeknight dinner that avoids dry, rubbery chicken.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large or 3 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs / 680g)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 large lemon (zest and juice)
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- Kosher salt and coarse black pepper
- Optional: ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Optional: 2 tablespoons white wine or chicken broth for sauce
Instructions
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If uneven, pound the thick ends to create uniform thickness.
- Season both sides of the chicken generously with salt and pepper.
- In a small bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, chopped parsley, thyme leaves, and red pepper flakes (if using) to form a paste.
- Brush both sides of the chicken with olive oil, then spread the lemon herb butter mixture generously over the top of each breast.
- Preheat air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
- Place chicken in the air fryer basket, leaving space for air circulation. Cook for 12 minutes, flipping halfway through and brushing with remaining butter if desired.
- Check internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C). If needed, cook 1-2 minutes longer.
- Remove chicken and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.
- Optional: Deglaze the basket with white wine or broth to create a pan sauce.
Notes
Do not skip the resting time; it is crucial for keeping the chicken juicy. Ensure chicken breasts are uniform in thickness by pounding them for even cooking. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure proper air circulation and crisping. Use fresh garlic and herbs for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 280
- Sodium: 320
- Fat: 14
- Saturated Fat: 7
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Protein: 35
Keywords: air fryer chicken, lemon herb chicken, juicy chicken breast, quick dinner, healthy dinner, keto friendly, gluten free, weeknight meals