Easy Air Fryer Chicken Breast Recipe

Juicy, easy air fryer chicken breast recipe baked with honey and garlic.
Prep Time 12 mins
Cook Time 13 mins
Total Time 30 mins
Cooking Method: ,
Cuisine: , , , ,
Courses: ,
Difficulty: Beginner
Servings: 4
Calories: 195
Description

This quick and easy air fryer chicken breast recipe delivers tender, juicy boneless skinless chicken coated in a savory-sweet honey garlic marinade, ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients
  • 4 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 9 to 10 oz each)
  • 1 tablespoon of high-heat cooking oil (such as olive or canola oil)
  • 1/4 cup of sodium soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
  • 1/4 cup of liquid honey, divided
  • 4 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, finely grated
  • 1 tablespoon of cornstarch or gluten-free flour
  • 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika
  • 1/4 cup of water or low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/4 teaspoon of Kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley or chives, chopped
How to Cook Chicken Breasts in an Air Fryer (Step-by-Step Instructions)
  1. 1
    Score the Chicken
    • Begin by patting the chicken breasts completely dry using paper towels.
    • Place the chicken breasts flat on a cutting board.
    • With a sharp knife, gently slice 3 to 4 shallow lines across the top of each breast, about ¼ inch deep.
  2. 2
    Make the Marinade
    • In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce or tamari, most of the honey (save 1 tablespoon), garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, paprika, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and water or broth.
    • Whisk for about 30 seconds, until the cornstarch dissolves and the mixture slightly thickens.
  3. 3
    Marinate the ChickenAir fryer boneless skinless chicken breast recipe coated in honey garlic marinade.
    • Place the scored chicken breasts into the bowl of marinade.
    • Use tongs or your hands to coat the chicken thoroughly, making sure the marinade gets into the cuts.
    • Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or for a deeper flavor, marinate 2 to 4 hours.
  4. 4
    Preheat the Air Fryer
    • Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for 3 to 5 minutes.
    • If you like, line the basket with foil to catch any glaze drips.
    • Lightly spray the basket (or foil) with a high-heat cooking oil to prevent sticking.
  5. 5
    Air Frying Phase 1
    • Remove the marinated chicken from the bowl, letting any loose excess marinade drip back.
    • Place the chicken into the preheated air fryer basket in a single, evenly spaced layer.
    • Avoid overlapping or stacking, as unrestricted airflow is essential for creating a uniform golden crust.
    • Cook at 375 °F (190 °C) for 6 minutes to initiate browning and lock in the juices.
  6. 6
    Flip, Glaze, and Phase 2 (Final Cook)
    • After the initial 6 minutes, use tongs to gently flip the chicken breasts.
    • At this point, the surface should appear set with a light golden crust.
    • Brush a thin, even layer of the reserved tablespoon of honey over the newly exposed side, the scored side.
    • Applying the glaze at this stage prevents prolonged sugar exposure, lowering the risk of scorching while producing a rich, glossy finish.
    • Continue air frying for an additional 6 to 10 minutes, or until the chicken reaches 165 °F (74 °C) internally.
  7. 7
    Verify Doneness
    • At the 12-minute total cook time, begin monitoring doneness by inserting an instant-read thermometer into the thickest section of the largest chicken breast.
    • The air frying process is considered complete only once the internal temperature reaches 165 °F (74 °C).
    • Keep in mind that larger, thicker breasts in the 9 to 10 ounce range may extend the cook time to as much as 16 minutes before achieving this safe temperature threshold.
  8. 8
    Rest the Chicken
    • Once the chicken breasts reach a safe internal temperature, transfer them immediately to a clean cutting board or platter.
    • Cover it loosely with a piece of aluminum foil to tent it.
    • Allow the chicken to rest for a mandatory 5 to 10 minutes.
    • This brief resting phase enables the redistributed juices to settle back into the meat, ensuring every slice remains moist and tender.
  9. 9
    Slice and ServeGlazed air fryer chicken breast on a dark cutting board with a neutral cloth background.
    • Once rested, slice the chicken against the grain and serve immediately, garnished with the fresh parsley or chives.
    • Pair with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh Greek salad to balance the rich honey garlic glaze with lighter, refreshing sides.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Serving Size 6-ounce (170g) per serving

Amount Per Serving
Calories 195kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 4g7%
Saturated Fat 1g5%
Cholesterol 85mg29%
Sodium 250mg11%
Potassium 350mg10%
Total Carbohydrate 12g4%
Sugars 7g
Protein 36g72%
Vitamin A 120 IU
Calcium 20 mg
Iron 2 mg
Vitamin K 12 mcg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note
  • Always preheat the air fryer, since starting cold leads to uneven cooking and dry chicken.
  • Place the chicken in a single layer with space between pieces, cooking in batches if needed for proper air circulation.
  • Rely on a meat thermometer instead of cook time, making sure the thickest part reaches 165°F for safety.
  • Brush on the honey glaze only after flipping to prevent burning while still achieving a glossy finish.
  • Let the chicken rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing so the juices stay inside and the meat stays tender.
Read it online: https://tinakitchen.com/recipe/air-fryer-chicken-breast/

We hope you enjoy making this recipe.

Happy cooking!