Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp fine sea salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
Instructions:
- Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of parchment paper. Use a meat mallet to gently pound the thicker end of each breast until they are an even thickness of about 3/4 inch. Note: This prevents the thin end from overcooking.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Pat the chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels. Rub the oil mixture generously over all sides of the meat. Note: Dry meat sears better.
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
- Place the chicken in the basket in a single layer without overlapping.
- Cook for 6 minutes until the edges start to sizzle.
- Flip the chicken with tongs.
- Cook for another 6-9 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Remove the chicken from the air fryer.
- Let it rest on a plate for 5 minutes to allow the carry over heat to reach 165°F (74°C) and juices to redistribute.