How Long to Air Fry Thin Chicken Breast for Perfectly Cooked and Juicy Results

Air frying is one of the quickest and easiest ways to cook boneless, skinless chicken breasts so they turn out tender and juicy every time When using thin sliced chicken breasts, air frying really shines and takes the guesswork out of getting the cook time just right

If you have an air fryer, you can make perfectly cooked chicken in about 10 minutes thanks to the circulating hot air that crisps up the outside and keeps the inside moist. Air frying thin chicken breasts results in evenly cooked chicken that is so much quicker than baking or pan frying.

Read on for tips on how long to air fry thin sliced chicken breasts, what temperature to use, and how to know when they are done. We’ll also cover how to season them for the best flavor and what sides go well for easy meal ideas.

What is Considered a Thin Chicken Breast?

Thin chicken breasts are typically about 1/2 inch thick. You can find thin sliced chicken breast pre-packaged at many grocery stores, usually next to the regular chicken breasts.

Another option is to slice a regular chicken breast in half horizontally to make two thin pieces Or, you can pound it thin between two pieces of plastic wrap with a meat mallet or rolling pin

When chicken breast is pounded or sliced thin to about 1/2 inch thickness, it will cook much more quickly and evenly than a thicker breast. The thinness allows the heat to penetrate through the meat, ensuring it cooks through without drying out.

How Long to Air Fry Thin Chicken Breasts

• Preheat air fryer Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. This high heat helps the chicken cook up crispy.

• Cook time: Cook thin chicken breasts for 7-10 minutes, depending on thickness. Thinner pieces may take only 7 minutes while thicker pieces need the full 10 minutes.

• Internal temperature: The minimum safe temperature for chicken is 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to test the thickest part.

• Appearance: The chicken is fully cooked when it is opaque all the way through and juices run clear.

• Doneness: The total cook time ranges from 7-10 minutes. Check for doneness starting at 6 minutes as thinner pieces may be ready sooner.

Tips for Air Frying Thin Chicken Breasts

• Pat the chicken dry before cooking for optimal browning and cripsness. Wet chicken won’t get as crispy.

• Use a light coat of oil. A spray of olive oil or brushing with a teaspoon of oil helps the chicken get nicely browned.

• Don’t overcrowd. Cook chicken in a single layer and work in batches to allow air flow for even cooking.

• Adjust time for thickness. Thinner pieces cook faster while thicker pieces need more time.

• Let rest before serving. Let chicken rest 5 minutes after cooking for juicier meat.

How to Know When Thin Chicken is Done Air Frying

It can be tricky to get the perfect cook time, but here are some ways to test for doneness:

• Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature in the thickest part. It should reach 165°F.

• Cut into the center to check for opacity. Chicken is done when it is white all the way through, not pink or translucent.

• Juices will run clear when chicken is fully cooked, not pink or red.

• The outside will be crispy and golden brown when it is finished cooking.

• The chicken will firm up and become easy to shred with a fork when completely cooked.

If the chicken isn’t quite done, put it back in the air fryer for 2-3 more minutes until it passes the tests for doneness. It’s better to slightly overcook than undercook poultry.

Best Seasonings for Air Fried Chicken

One benefit of air frying is that you don’t need breading to get crispy chicken. Use any of these quick seasoning mixes:

• Lemon pepper – lemon juice, salt, pepper
• Italian herbs – oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt
• Cajun – paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne
• Jerk – allspice, thyme, brown sugar, cayenne
• BBQ – brown sugar, chili powder, paprika, garlic

After brushing with oil, sprinkle the seasoning of choice evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts before air frying.

What to Serve with Air Fried Thin Chicken Breasts

These easy sides pair well with air fried chicken for fast meal ideas:

• Roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes
• Rice or quinoa
• Sauteed veggies like zucchini, peppers, broccoli
• Green salad or caesar salad
• Pasta salad with vinaigrette
• Hummus and pita bread

The quick cook time for thin chicken in the air fryer makes it easy to whip up a complete meal in under 30 minutes.

Tips for Meal Prep and Storage

The convenience of air fried chicken breasts also makes them perfect for meal prepping:

• Let cool completely before packing for storage.
• Store in airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheat gently in the microwave or air fryer.

Add some veggies and starch to your prep containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners all week.

Common Questions

How long does it take to cook a thin chicken breast in the air fryer?

Cook thin chicken breast in the air fryer at 400°F for 7-10 minutes, depending on thickness. Start checking at 6 minutes as thinner pieces may cook faster. Cook until 165°F internally and juices run clear.

Can you cook a regular chicken breast in the air fryer?

Yes, but it will take about twice as long. Cook a thicker chicken breast for 14-18 minutes, flipping halfway through. Use a meat thermometer to confirm it reaches 165°F internally.

What is the best oil to use for air frying chicken?

The best oils for air frying chicken are olive oil, avocado oil, or coconut oil. Brush or spray a thin layer over the chicken before cooking.

Is air fried chicken healthy?

Chicken cooked without any breading or batter in the air fryer is a healthy lean protein source. Air frying is a healthy cooking method using just a teaspoon of oil to keep the chicken moist.

Can you put frozen chicken breasts in an air fryer?

It is best to thaw chicken breasts before air frying. Air frying frozen chicken runs the risk of undercooking the inside before the outside becomes crispy.

The Perfectly Cooked and Tender Results

Cooking thin chicken breasts in the air fryer results in a quick, healthy dinner the whole family will love. The circulating hot air locks in moisture and cooks the chicken evenly for ideal texture.

In just 10 minutes or less, you can enjoy a serving of tender, juicy chicken breast cooked to a safe temperature. Season the chicken with spices, herbs, or rubs to add lots of flavor without weighing it down with a heavy breading or batter.

Pair air fried thin chicken breasts with roasted veggies or a fresh salad for a complete meal ready in under 30 minutes. Meal prep using this handy recipe, and you’ll have delicious grab-and-go lunches or dinners ready anytime.