Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps to remove excess moisture and ensures the seasoning adheres better to the chicken.
Season the chicken breasts generously with your favorite spices and herbs. Common options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried herbs like thyme or rosemary. You can customize the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
If you have time, marinate the chicken breasts for 30 minutes to overnight in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and herbs. This adds extra flavor and helps to tenderize the meat.
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes. This ensures the air fryer is hot and ready to cook the chicken evenly.
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they're not overcrowded. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can result in uneven cooking.
Air fry the chicken breasts at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts and the model of your air fryer. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Once the chicken breasts are cooked through, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier and more flavorful chicken.
Serve the air fryer chicken breasts hot with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, salad, or rice. You can also slice the chicken and use it in sandwiches, wraps, salads, or pasta dishes for a quick and easy meal.