Ingredients
- 4 small boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
- 6 cups lukewarm water
- 1/4 cup kosher salt (for brining)
- Olive oil spray
- 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Pound the thick end of each chicken breast to ensure even thickness.
- Prepare the brine by dissolving kosher salt into lukewarm water in a large bowl. Add chicken breasts, cover, and refrigerate for 1 to 1½ hours.
- Remove chicken from the brine, discard the liquid, and pat dry with paper towels.
- Lightly spray each chicken breast with olive oil.
- In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
- Rub the seasoning evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F.
- Place chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for about 5 minutes per side, flipping halfway through, until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove from air fryer and let rest briefly before serving.
Notes
- Brining is optional but strongly recommended for maximum juiciness.
- Adjust spices to suit your taste or use a pre-made seasoning blend.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Great for meal prep — stores and reheats well.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
