Air Fryer Grilled Chicken

Air Fryer Grilled Chicken is a delicious and convenient way to enjoy perfectly cooked chicken with minimal effort. This recipe yields juicy and flavorful chicken breasts that are perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or gatherings with friends and family. The air fryer gives the chicken an appealing grilled texture without the fuss of traditional grilling methods.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Air Fryer Grilled Chicken recipe takes just 20 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Seasoning: The blend of garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and paprika infuses the chicken with mouthwatering flavors.
• Healthier Option: Air frying uses less oil than traditional frying methods, resulting in a healthier dish without sacrificing taste.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy this grilled chicken in salads, sandwiches, or as a main course with your favorite sides.
• Perfectly Cooked Every Time: The air fryer ensures even cooking and helps achieve a juicy interior while keeping the outside crispy.

Tools and Preparation

To make Air Fryer Grilled Chicken, you’ll need a few essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowl
• Small bowl
• Meat thermometer
• Cooking brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: This tool allows you to cook chicken quickly while achieving a crispy exterior without excessive oil.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures your chicken is cooked to perfection by checking its internal temperature for safety.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 ½ pounds Springer Mountain Farms perfectly portioned 4 oz chicken breasts

For the Seasoning Mix

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 ¾ teaspoon salt
• 1 ¼ teaspoon paprika

How to Make Air Fryer Grilled Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry and place them in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Make the Seasoning Mix

In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and paprika.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and toss to coat evenly. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the chicken and rub it in to ensure each piece is evenly coated.

Step 4: Prep the Air Fryer

Lightly brush the bottom of the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Arrange the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overlapping. There should be space between each piece for even cooking.

Step 6: Air Fry the Chicken

Set the air fryer to 380°F and cook for 10 minutes.

Step 7: Flip and Continue Cooking

After 10 minutes, flip the chicken over and cook for an additional 10 minutes.

Step 8: Check the Internal Temperature

At the 10-minute mark, check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach 165°F to be fully cooked. If any pieces are not yet at temperature, continue cooking in 3-minute intervals until they reach 165°F.

Step 9: Rest the Chicken

Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

How to Serve Air Fryer Grilled Chicken

Air Fryer Grilled Chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it in a salad, sandwich, or as a main course, there are plenty of options to elevate your meal.

Salad

• Toss sliced grilled chicken into a fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and your favorite dressing for a healthy lunch.

Sandwich

• Layer the grilled chicken on whole grain bread with lettuce, tomato, and avocado for a satisfying sandwich option.

Tacos

• Shred the chicken and serve it in corn tortillas topped with salsa, cilantro, and lime for delicious tacos.

Rice Bowl

• Serve the grilled chicken over steamed rice with sautéed vegetables and teriyaki sauce for a hearty bowl meal.

Pasta Dish

• Slice the chicken and mix it into your favorite pasta along with olive oil, garlic, and veggies for a quick dinner.

Skewers

• Cube the grilled chicken and thread it onto skewers with bell peppers and onions for a fun finger food option.

How to Perfect Air Fryer Grilled Chicken

To achieve perfectly cooked Air Fryer Grilled Chicken, follow these helpful tips that ensure flavor and juiciness.

• Pat Dry: Always pat the chicken dry before seasoning. This helps the spices adhere better and promotes even cooking.

• Even Thickness: Ensure your chicken breasts are of uniform thickness. This allows them to cook evenly without drying out.

• Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating your air fryer helps achieve that perfect crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.

• Use a Meat Thermometer: Check the internal temperature of the chicken to make sure it reaches 165°F for safe consumption.

• Let It Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking helps retain its juices for maximum flavor.

• Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to try different herbs and spices to create unique flavor profiles that suit your taste.

Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Grilled Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Air Fryer Grilled Chicken enhances your meal experience. Here are some delicious options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds crunch and nutrients, complementing the savory flavors of the chicken.

2. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing offers a wholesome addition.

3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized provide natural sweetness that balances the savory chicken.

4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes create comfort on your plate while harmonizing with grilled flavors.

5. Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice sautéed with spices makes an excellent base for grilled chicken slices.

6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots adds texture and freshness alongside your main dish.

7. Vegetable Stir-Fry: Quick-cooked stir-fried vegetables bring color and crunch, making your meal vibrant and nutritious.

8. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and is always a crowd-pleaser when served next to grilled chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Air Fryer Grilled Chicken turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Skipping the Drying Step: Failing to pat the chicken breasts dry can lead to excess moisture, preventing a nice sear. Always dry your chicken with paper towels before seasoning.

• Not Using Enough Oil: Insufficient oil can cause the chicken to stick to the air fryer basket. Make sure to drizzle enough olive oil to coat the chicken evenly.

• Overcrowding the Basket: Placing too many chicken pieces together can lead to uneven cooking. Leave space between each piece for optimal air circulation.

• Ignoring Cooking Times: Not checking the internal temperature of the chicken can result in undercooking or overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.

• Forgetting to Rest: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can make it dry. Allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing for juiciness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Air Fryer Grilled Chicken

• Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Air Fryer Grilled Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, warm for about 5 minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Air Fryer Grilled Chicken.

How do I make Air Fryer Grilled Chicken juicy?

To keep your Air Fryer Grilled Chicken juicy, ensure you don’t overcook it. Always check the internal temperature and let it rest before slicing.

Can I use different spices for Air Fryer Grilled Chicken?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other spices and herbs like cumin, chili powder, or Italian seasoning based on your taste preference.

How long does it take to cook Air Fryer Grilled Chicken?

Cooking Air Fryer Grilled Chicken typically takes about 20 minutes at 380°F. Ensure you flip halfway through for even cooking.

What side dishes go well with Air Fryer Grilled Chicken?

Air Fryer Grilled Chicken pairs beautifully with salads, roasted vegetables, or rice dishes. You can customize sides based on dietary preferences!

Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Grilled Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also offers versatile flavors that suit any meal. Whether you enjoy it plain or spiced up, this recipe allows room for customization. Don’t hesitate to try different seasonings or sides!