This Air Fryer Grilled Chicken recipe is a game-changer! Juicy and tender chicken breasts are cooked to perfection, boasting a smoky grilled flavor with a crispy, golden exterior. It’s the perfect meal when you want something quick and easy, whether for a busy weeknight dinner or meal prep. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken but still packs plenty of flavor!
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Coat the chicken breasts with the marinade, making sure they are evenly covered.
Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Be sure not to overcrowd them.
Air fry the chicken at 380°F (190°C) for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories per Serving: 230 kcal
Variations
Add Spice: For a little heat, I like to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade.
Herb Variations: I sometimes swap out the oregano for other dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil for a new twist on flavor.
Marinate Longer: If I have time, I let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight) to allow the flavors to really soak in.
Grilled Flavor: To enhance the grilled flavor, I’ll occasionally add a bit of liquid smoke to the marinade.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: I store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It makes for a great meal prep option!
Reheating: To reheat, I pop the chicken back into the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) to keep the outside crispy while warming the inside. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave for a quicker option, though it might lose a bit of its crispiness.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken breasts, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time by about 5-10 minutes to ensure they’re cooked through. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Can I make this recipe without olive oil?
If you don’t have olive oil, you can substitute it with any other cooking oil, like avocado oil, vegetable oil, or even melted butter for a richer flavor.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Definitely! Chicken thighs work well in the air fryer, and they tend to be juicier than chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time if needed, as they may take a few extra minutes to cook through.
What should I serve with this air fryer grilled chicken?
This grilled chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes such as roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, mashed potatoes, or quinoa. You can even use it in sandwiches or wraps for a delicious lunch!
How can I ensure the chicken is juicy?
The key to juicy chicken is not overcooking it. Make sure to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer, and don’t let it go beyond 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest after cooking so the juices redistribute.
Conclusion
I’ve found this Air Fryer Grilled Chicken recipe to be a total winner when I’m short on time but still want something flavorful and healthy. The juicy, tender chicken with a smoky grilled flavor and crispy exterior is always a crowd-pleaser. Whether I’m making it for a weeknight meal or prepping for the week ahead, this recipe is easy to follow and consistently delicious. I highly recommend giving it a try.
Recipe:
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Air Fryer Grilled Chicken
This Air Fryer Grilled Chicken recipe is quick, easy, and delivers juicy, tender chicken with a smoky grilled flavor and crispy exterior. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, this healthier alternative to fried chicken is bursting with savory flavor thanks to a simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and oregano. Ready in just 25 minutes, this air fryer chicken recipe will become a go-to for busy days.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
-
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
-
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
-
Coat the chicken breasts with the marinade, ensuring they are evenly covered.
-
Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd.
-
Air fry at 380°F (190°C) for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
-
Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade for extra heat.
Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil for a fresh twist on flavor.
Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes (or overnight) will enhance the flavor.
For extra smoky flavor, consider adding a bit of liquid smoke to the marinade.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 230 kcal
