Name: The Best Air Fryer Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 24 min
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lb boneless (skinless chicken breasts); 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 1/2 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp kosher salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp onion powder

This is the best air fryer chicken I have ever made, and it has completely changed how I cook chicken breasts at home. A quick Greek yogurt marinade with lemon, garlic and oregano keeps the meat juicy, and the air fryer gives it crispy, golden edges in about 14 minutes. If you have ever wondered how to make air fryer chicken breast that is juicy and crispy at the same time, this is it.

It is my go-to for meal prep, salads, wraps and rice bowls. Once you try it, you will be making it every week. Pair it with my Mediterranean Pearl Couscous Salad with Lemon Garlic Shrimp or tuck it into a pita.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Chicken

Juicy every time. The yogurt marinade tenderizes the chicken so it never dries out.
Crispy edges without breading or deep frying.
Done in about 14 minutes once it is marinated.
Meal prep gold. Slice it for salads, bowls, wraps and pasta all week.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Chicken Breast

The Chicken

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts. If they are very thick, slice them in half horizontally or pound them to an even thickness so they cook evenly.

The Marinade

Plain Greek yogurt is the secret to tender chicken. Mix it with olive oil, lemon juice and fresh garlic.

The Seasoning

Dried oregano, paprika, onion powder, kosher salt and black pepper give it a bright, Mediterranean flavor and gorgeous color.

Dietary note: This air fryer chicken is naturally gluten free, low carb and high protein. For dairy free, swap the Greek yogurt for a dairy-free plain yogurt.

How to Make Air Fryer Chicken

Step 1: Mix the marinade

In a bowl, stir together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, pepper and onion powder.

Step 2: Marinate the chicken

Add the chicken and coat it well. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 8 hours in the fridge.

Step 3: Preheat the air fryer

Heat the air fryer to 400°F so the chicken starts crisping the second it goes in.

Step 4: Air fry

Shake off any extra marinade and place the chicken in a single layer. Air fry 10 to 14 minutes, flipping halfway, until it reaches 165°F inside.

Step 5: Rest and slice

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes so the juices settle, then slice and serve.

Carly’s Expert Tips

Use a meat thermometer. Pull the chicken at 165°F for perfectly juicy meat every time.
Even thickness matters. Pounding or butterflying thick breasts keeps the edges from drying out.
Don’t crowd the basket. Leave space between pieces so the hot air can crisp them up.
Marinate longer if you can. A few hours makes it even more tender and flavorful.

Make It Your Own

Chicken thighs: Use boneless thighs and air fry 12 to 16 minutes.
Spicy: Add cayenne or chili powder to the marinade.
Herby: Stir in fresh dill or parsley for a tzatziki-style twist.
Lemon pepper: Swap the paprika for lemon pepper seasoning.

Make-Ahead and Meal Prep: Marinate the chicken up to 8 hours ahead, or cook a big batch on Sunday. Sliced air fryer chicken keeps for 4 days in the fridge and is perfect for salads, wraps and rice bowls all week.

What to Serve With Air Fryer Chicken

Serve this air fryer chicken with rice, roasted veggies or a Greek salad. It is also great over my Mediterranean Pearl Couscous Salad with Lemon Garlic Shrimp or sliced into a wrap with tzatziki.

Storing and Reheating

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3 to 4 minutes to keep it crispy. You can also freeze cooked chicken for up to 3 months.

What People Ask About Air Fryer Chicken

How long do you cook chicken breast in the air fryer?

Cook chicken breasts at 400°F for 10 to 14 minutes, flipping halfway, until they reach 165°F inside. Thicker pieces may need a few extra minutes.

How do you keep air fryer chicken from drying out?

A yogurt marinade, even thickness and pulling the chicken at 165°F keep it juicy. Resting it for 5 minutes helps too.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer for chicken?

Yes. Preheating helps the outside crisp quickly while the inside stays juicy.

Can I cook frozen chicken in the air fryer?

You can, but it will not absorb the marinade. Thaw it first for the best flavor and texture.

Is air fryer chicken healthy?

Yes. It uses only a little olive oil, no breading and is high in protein.