Description
Succulent air fryer grilled chicken brings Mediterranean flavors to your kitchen in minutes. Crispy exterior and juicy interior make this quick protein perfect for busy weeknight dinners you can enjoy with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
Oils and Liquids:
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil
- 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) lemon juice
Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or regular)
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (or dried oregano)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon chili powder or cayenne (optional for spice)
Instructions
- Craft a vibrant marinade by blending olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and chili powder in a mixing bowl until thoroughly combined.
- Massage the marinade generously over each chicken breast, ensuring complete and even coverage of the meat’s surface.
- Allow the chicken to absorb the marinade’s flavors by letting it rest at room temperature for 15-30 minutes, or refrigerate up to 4 hours for deeper taste infusion.
- Activate the air fryer and set the temperature precisely to 375F (190C), allowing it to warm up for 2-3 minutes to create an optimal cooking environment.
- Arrange the marinated chicken breasts in a single layer within the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding to ensure uniform heat circulation.
- Cook the chicken for 8 minutes, then carefully flip each piece to promote even browning and continue cooking for an additional 6-8 minutes.
- Verify the chicken’s doneness by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165F (75C) using a meat thermometer.
- Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute and enhance the meat’s tenderness.
- Slice the chicken and present alongside grilled vegetables, fluffy rice, or a crisp, refreshing salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Maximize flavor by marinating chicken overnight in the refrigerator, allowing spices to deeply penetrate the meat.
- Prevent dryness by avoiding overcooking; use a meat thermometer to ensure precise 165F internal temperature.
- Customize the seasoning blend with alternative herbs like rosemary or thyme for different flavor profiles, perfect for those wanting variety.
- Make this recipe diet-friendly by substituting olive oil with avocado oil for paleo diets or using low-sodium seasonings for heart-healthy meals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg