Looking for a fast, healthy, and incredibly flavorful way to enjoy grilled chicken without firing up the grill? Say hello to your new favorite recipe: Air Fryer Grilled Chicken. With just a handful of simple spices, this recipe delivers juicy, perfectly charred chicken that’s ready in under 25 minutes. It’s a perfect meal prep staple, salad topper, or main dish that your family will request on repeat.
Whether you're following a low-carb, keto, or high-protein diet—or you just want something delicious and easy—this recipe delivers bold flavor and juicy texture with no mess and minimal effort.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 500g boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 15g olive oil (1 tbsp)
- 5g garlic powder (1 tsp)
- 5g smoked paprika (1 tsp)
- 3g onion powder (½ tsp)
- 2g dried oregano (½ tsp)
- 2g salt (½ tsp)
- 1g black pepper (¼ tsp)
- Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for added zing)
🔄 Customization Tip: You can easily swap in Cajun seasoning, Italian herbs, or your favorite spice blend for a twist.
🔪 Instructions
1. Prep the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the oil and spices stick and promotes a better sear.
2. Season Generously
In a large bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and rub the seasoning all over until evenly coated. Optional: Squeeze half a lemon over the top for brightness.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 200°C (400°F) and let it preheat for 3 minutes for even cooking.
4. Cook to Perfection
Place chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for:
- Boneless breasts: 10–12 minutes (flip halfway)
- Boneless thighs: 12–14 minutes (flip halfway)
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
5. Rest & Serve
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain the juices. Serve as-is, or chop it up for bowls, wraps, salads, or tacos!
📊 Nutrition Info (Per Serving)
- Calories: 230 kcal
- Protein: 33g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sodium: 320mg
💡 Note: Nutrition will vary slightly based on the cut of chicken used (breast vs thigh).
🌟 Tips & Tricks
- Marinate for Flavor: If you’ve got time, let the seasoned chicken rest for 30 minutes—or overnight—for even more flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Cook in batches if needed so the chicken sears instead of steaming.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: It guarantees perfectly juicy chicken every time.
- Crispier Finish: Add a minute or two of extra cooking time for a more grilled, charred effect.
💬 From My Kitchen to Yours
I created this recipe on a weeknight when I wanted something fast and flavorful without the hassle of grilling or pan-frying—and it’s been a lifesaver ever since. The air fryer works magic by locking in moisture while crisping the outside, giving you that grilled feel without the grill.
Pair this with steamed veggies, garlic rice, or wrap it in a tortilla with fresh slaw and sauce for the easiest weeknight dinner.
It’s one of those meals that feels indulgent but is surprisingly healthy, and the leftovers taste amazing the next day.
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