This simple air fryer chicken breast recipe makes one serving and cooks in no time using a thin sliced chicken breast, olive oil, and pantry spices. It's an easy weeknight dinner option that works well with salads, wraps, or simple side dishes. Unlike oven-baked versions, the air fryer locks in moisture while giving the outside a lightly seasoned crust.
Okay: a confession. For the longest time I honestly thought an air fryer was only good for making French fries and chicken wings. And honestly, I just don't make those things that much.
But after a TON of research, I finally decided to try one out. And oh boy did I realize I should have done this a long time ago. This single serve chicken breast is actually the very first recipe I made with my new air fryer, and I was instantly hooked. It turned out amazingly tender and juicy with just a little olive oil involved. And it was all hands off! Such a welcome difference from oven baked or pan seared chicken which can be a little fussy and tricky to cook just right.
Using an air fryer also means you don't have to heat up the entire oven for a single serving (your future self will appreciate that.) 😉
🌿 Ingredients
Look for thin-sliced chicken breasts, or slice lengthwise into two thinner slices if you're using a regular chicken breast.
See recipe card below for exact quantities.
⚙️ Equipment recommendation
A 3-5 quart air fryer works perfectly for single serving recipes. I used a Bella 4-quart air fryer with a parchment basket liner to make this chicken recipe. (The liner is totally optional; I just like using them because it makes cleanup super simple.)
📝 Instructions
🥧 Serving suggestions
A single chicken breast pairs well with simple sides like roasted sweet potatoes, steamed broccoli or wild rice. I also love it served over this simple Greek salad with feta or chopped Caprese salad.
You can also slice it and use it for wraps or sandwiches; it's endlessly versatile. 🙂
💭 FAQ
To ensure your chicken breast turns out moist and juicy, make sure to use a oil, avoid overcooking, and always rest the chicken before slicing.
Yes. Cook at 360°F (182°C) for 20-25 minutes, seasoning halfway through once the surface has thawed.
🍳 Recipe
Air Fryer Chicken Breast for One
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Mix the olive oil and spices together in a medium mixing bowl. Then, wash and pat the chicken breast dry with paper towels. If it's thicker than 1 centimeter, slice in half lengthwise and use one half.1 tablespoon olive oil, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon paprika, pinch sea salt, pinch freshly ground black pepper, 1 thin sliced chicken breast
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
- While the air fryer is warming, season the chicken breast with the spice rub, using your hands to coat evenly.
- Place the chicken breast in the air fryer basket (use a parchment liner for easy cleanup if you'd like). Cook for 14-16 minutes, flipping halfway through. Check doneness by using a knife to see if the juices run clear; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken breast to a clean cutting board and let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
- Slice, and enjoy!
Nutrition
Notes
Did you make this recipe?
I'd absolutely love for you to leave a review!🌡️ Food safety tips
- Cook poultry until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C); use a food thermometer to check the thickest part.
- Do not rinse raw poultry; washing can spread bacteria around the sink and countertops.
- Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw poultry and other ingredients.
- Wash hands, knives, and surfaces with warm, soapy water after handling raw poultry.
- Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours (or within 1 hour if it's very warm).
For more food safety guidance, visit foodsafety.gov.
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