Cooking chicken breast in an air fryer is a quick and healthy way to prepare this versatile protein. But knowing the right temperature and cook times in Celsius is key to achieving moist, tender chicken breast with a crispy exterior. This comprehensive guide will provide tips, timing, and FAQs for perfectly cooked air fryer chicken breast using Celsius.
Air fryers have revolutionized home cooking by mimicking deep fried flavors with significantly less oil. Chicken breast especially benefits, transforming into a quick weeknight dinner with crispy skin and juicy meat when air fried. But nailing the right temperature and cook time can seem tricky since many air fryer settings are in Fahrenheit.
This guide will break down everything you need to know for cooking chicken breast in an air fryer using Celsius temperatures. You’ll learn about:
- Ideal air fryer temperature for chicken breast in Celsius
- Recommended cook times based on thickness
- Marinading and seasoning tips
- Common FAQs
Follow these tips and you’ll be serving up tender, flavorful chicken breast with crispy skin every time.
What is the Best Temperature to Cook Chicken Breast in an Air Fryer (Celsius)?
The optimum air fryer temperature for cooking chicken breast is 180°C (356°F). This allows the chicken to cook through evenly without drying out.
Preheating the air fryer for 3-5 minutes before adding the chicken is recommended This ensures the air fryer basket reaches the target temperature for consistent cooking
How Long to Cook Chicken Breast in an Air Fryer (Celsius)?
Cooking times for boneless, skinless chicken breast in an air fryer will vary based on thickness:
- 1.25 cm (1/2 inch) thick – 12-14 minutes
- 2.5 cm (1 inch) thick – 15-18 minutes
- 5 cm (2 inches) thick – 22-25 minutes
For best results, flip the chicken breast halfway through the cooking time to promote even browning
Always use a food thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F). If the chicken is not quite done, continue cooking and rechecking the temperature every few minutes.
Allow the cooked chicken breast to rest 5 minutes before cutting to allow juices to redistribute.
Marinading and Seasoning Chicken Breast
Although optional marinading the chicken can make it extra flavorful. A simple marinade of olive oil lemon juice, garlic, and herbs adds tremendous flavor. Let the chicken marinate for 30 minutes up to overnight.
If short on time, season the chicken breast just before air frying. A simple sprinkle of salt, pepper, paprika and other spices works great. The air fryer will caramelize seasonings nicely.
FAQs
Can I cook frozen chicken breast in the air fryer?
Yes, increase cooking time by 50% for frozen chicken breast. Always verify internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).
Should I spritz the chicken breast with oil?
Lightly spritzing with oil promotes browning and a crispy skin. Use a high smoke point oil like avocado or canola.
How do I prevent dry chicken breast?
Avoid overcooking and use a marinade. Check temperature early and continue cooking if needed.
How do I know when it’s done?
Insert a food thermometer into the thickest part to verify 74°C (165°F). If underdone, cook longer, checking frequently.
Can I cook bone-in chicken breasts?
Yes, bone-in will take slightly longer to cook. Verify internal temp near the bone reaches 74°C (165°F).
Should I flip the chicken during cooking?
Yes, flip halfway through for even browning and cooking on both sides.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Preheating is recommended for best results, typically 3-5 minutes before cooking.
What temperature should I cook at?
180°C (356°F) is ideal for cooking chicken breast in the air fryer.
Conclusion
Cooking juicy, tender chicken breast with crispy skin in your air fryer is easy once you know the ideal time and temperature settings in Celsius. Follow these guidelines for marinading, seasoning, flipping halfway, and verifying doneness with a thermometer. In no time, you’ll be serving up delicious, quick weeknight chicken dinners from your air fryer.
How to serve
These air fried chicken bites are such a versatile recipe, so pick your sides!
- Appetizer – if enjoying as an appetizer, I suggest to serve with a fun favorite dipping sauce – my paprika dip is so good!
- Salad topping – add these chicken bites to a salad, wraps, or to a bowl dinner, perhaps my couscous buddha bowl, a grain or rice bowl.
- Side dishes – for a heartier dinner, serve with potatoes, quinoa, a grain or follow my guide to how to cook frozen cauliflower rice for a lower carb option. Veggie side dishes such as my air fryer baby corn and air fryer baby carrots add flavor and color!
Its very easy to cook these chicken bites and then freeze for another meal. Simply allow to cool completely, then freeze in a sealed bag or container. The Foods Standards Agency recommends that meat is best eaten after freezing within 2-3 months, but my low histamine readers may wish to read the SIGHI advice on freezing.
Step by step instructions
Making these air fryer chicken bites is so easy, uses minimal ingredients and puts dinner on the table fast!
All the instructions are set out in the recipe card below, but these step by step photos should help guide you.
Step 1: Dice the chicken breasts
Dice your boneless skinless chicken breasts into small bite-size cubes, about an inch thick ( 1).
Step 2: Add herbs and spice!
Drizzle olive oil and sprinkle Italian seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt and optional black pepper over the chicken cubes. Toss to combine, so the chicken is evenly coated ( 2).
Step 3: Add to your air fryer basket
Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray (I use olive oil spray), then use tongs to place the chicken cubes in an even layer with a little room between them to allow for the air to circulate ( 3).
Step 4: Air fry the chicken cubes
Air fry the boneless chicken bites for 10-12 minutes, giving the basket a good shake about half way through cook time so the bites get evenly heated through ( 4). Check for an internal temperature of 165F / 75C at the deepest point of the chicken, using a meat thermometer. Air fry for longer, if needed.