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Zesty Air Fryer Lemon Chicken Breast

This zesty air fryer lemon chicken breast is juicy, tender, and bursting with fresh citrus flavor. A simple blend of lemon juice, garlic, herbs, and seasonings creates a bright, flavorful chicken that's perfectly cooked in the air fryer. It's an easy high-protein dinner that's ready in just 30 minutes and pairs well with almost any side dish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings: 2 people
Course: dinner, lounch
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley for garnish
  • Lemon slices for serving, optional

Method
 

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3 to 5 minutes.
  2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If they are thick, pound them to an even thickness.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Brush or spoon the lemon mixture over both sides of the chicken breasts, coating them evenly.
  5. Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between each piece.
  6. Air fry for 10 minutes, then flip the chicken and brush with any remaining lemon mixture.
  7. Continue cooking for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  8. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with fresh lemon slices if desired.

Notes

  • Fresh lemon juice and zest provide the brightest flavor.
  • Pounding the chicken to an even thickness helps it cook evenly.
  • Marinate the chicken for 30 minutes before cooking for even more flavor.
  • Serve with roasted vegetables, rice, mashed potatoes, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.