Serve juicy, golden chicken in a snap with this foolproof Frozen Chicken Breast In Air Fryer recipe.
Sometimes, the day gets away from me, and there is not enough time to do it all. Between real adulting tasks, like buying a wedding shower gift, sending thank-you notes, kids’ orientation, paying bills, and finishing this article, where is the time to prepare a healthy and tasty dinner?
Yes, this is my actual to-do list for today, but I’m sure you can relate!
Most days, I try to start dinner by 5 p.m. so that it’s ready by 6 p.m. Except, the amount of random things that need my attention in that hour is unreal. So, it is the worst when you realize your chicken is still in the freezer. Then you’re like, “Okay, I guess we’re ordering takeout tonight!”
Well, don’t open that Doordash app just yet because you can make the frozen chicken breast in the air fryer!
Honestly, when I first got my air fryer, I had no idea you could cook frozen raw chicken in it. I understand frozen French fries and chicken nuggets, but raw? Really?
Yes, really.
Believe me when I tell you, the chicken goes from frozen to moist and tasty on your plate in about half an hour. I use a flavorful combo of herbs and spices to season the chicken: paprika, garlic, onion, basil, salt, and pepper. This recipe only uses a tablespoon of olive oil, much less than we would use for traditional fried or pan-fried chicken. Not only is it tasty—it’s healthy, too!
Is Frozen Chicken Breast In Air Fryer Healthy?
Yes! Chicken breast has the most protein and the least amount of calories of all chicken cuts. It’s also rich in vitamins and minerals. Also, as I mentioned, this recipe uses significantly less oil than frying it any other way. This recipe is keto, Paleo, gluten-free, and Whole30-friendly.
Why Do We Let The Chicken Rest?
Because it’s tired.
Sorry, I had to!
Seriously though, resting is an important step. Resting occurs when you remove the chicken from the heat source and allow it to sit for a moment. Don’t cut into it. Don’t flip it. Leave it alone for five to ten minutes. During this rest, the chicken will continue to cook. This also gives the meat a chance to reabsorb the juices, making it nice and tender.
How To Make Ahead And Store
Once cooled, the chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days and in the freezer for 2–3 months. You can reheat the chicken in the air fryer at 350°F until warmed, or in the microwave for about 30 seconds.
Serving Suggestions
You can pair this versatile recipe with a wide variety of delicious options. Lately, I have been obsessed with this restaurant-quality Smashed Brussels Sprouts. I’d also add a starch like this fluffy quinoa.
You can also slice your chicken breast and add it to a refreshing salad for a light lunch or dinner. I love a flavorful and bright Beet Salad or a simple yet sophisticated Classic Caprese Salad.
Ingredients
- 2 frozen chicken breasts
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F for 3–4 minutes.
- Season the frozen chicken breasts with salt on both sides.
- Place the chicken breasts in the air-fryer basket and cook for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Mix olive oil with paprika, garlic powder, dried basil, onion powder, and black pepper to create the spice mix.
- After the initial cooking, coat the chicken breasts with the spice mix and return them to the air fryer.
- Continue to air fry at 375°F for 10–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, depending on the size of the chicken breasts.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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