Easy Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Breasts

Forgot to thaw dinner? No problem with these quick and easy Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Breasts! Just 25 minutes from frozen to a moist and juicy chicken dinner.

Cooking chicken in an air fryer is awesome

Air fryers are awesome and cooking chicken of any kind in them is absolutely a game- changer! No matter what type of chicken or how you're fixing it, the chicken comes out moist and delicious, in less time than conventional cooking, and healthier since it cooks with less oil. A win for mom when dinner has to be on the table ASAP.

Recipes like my Air Fryer Chicken Burgers, Chicken Kabobs, and Chicken Wings are my family's favorites and get me out of the kitchen quickly and with little cleanup.

Why this is the frozen chicken breast air fryer recipe to make

Quick and Convenient - No Thawing Required: With this recipe, you can go from freezer to table in no time. Perfect for busy nights when you need something quick.

Simple Recipe: Just a few staple seasonings you probably have on hand, chicken breasts, and an air fryer and you're ready to go.

Versatile Flavor Options: Make it zesty, spicy, or savory by switching up the seasonings to suit your taste. Sub the lemon pepper with cajun, BBQ dry rub, or Italian herbs.

Healthier Cooking Method: Air frying uses less oil than traditional methods, giving you flavorful chicken without the extra calories.

Ideal for Meal Prep: Cook up a batch and you’re set for the week. They’re perfect for salads, sandwiches, and any recipe calling for rotisserie chicken.

Ingredients

• Frozen Chicken Breasts: Boneless skinless chicken breasts are the best option. No need to thaw, just grab them straight from the freezer.
• Salt: Used to enhance all the flavors.
• Olive Oil: Adds a touch of richness and helps the seasoning stick to the chicken. You can also sub avocado oil for the olive oil.
• Lemon Pepper Seasoning: Brings a bright, zesty flavor that pairs perfectly with chicken.
• Garlic Powder: Adds a savory depth and a hint of spice.
• Butter: Melts on top to give a final burst of flavor and keep the chicken juicy.

You'll find the exact measurements in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How long to cook frozen chicken breasts in an air fryer

Chicken breasts can vary in size, depending on the bird and the cut. This means that cooking times will differ based on the size and thickness of your chicken breasts. This is true no matter how you choose to cook them—bake, boil, grill, or air fry.

Using an instant-read thermometer is recommended as it is the best way to make sure your chicken is fully cooked without overcooking it. And nobody wants tough and dry overcooked chicken breasts! Since it’s hard to pinpoint an exact cooking time for frozen meat to reach an internal temperature of 165°F, here’s an estimated range for total cook time based on the size of the chicken breasts:

• Small (4-5 ounces): Approximately 20 minutes
• Medium (6-8 ounces): Approximately 25 minutes
• Large (10-12 ounces): Approximately 30 minutes

Recipe tips

For the best results, keep these handy tips in mind as you cook. They’ll help your chicken breasts to come out perfectly every time.

• Even Cooking: Choose chicken breasts of similar size so they cook evenly.
• Starting from Frozen: Cook the chicken from completely frozen.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Place the chicken in a single layer with enough room around them for the air to circulate properly.
• Flip the Chicken: Don’t forget to flip the chicken halfway through cooking for even browning.
• Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken breast to check the internal temperature of each breast. Pull each one out as it reaches the correct temperature, letting it rest while the others finish cooking.
• Save the Juices: Don’t throw out the juices from the bottom tray of the air fryer! Pour them over the chicken before serving for extra flavor.

Recipe variations with other seasonings

Take your air fryer chicken breasts to the next level with these delicious seasoning suggestions.

• Buffalo: Use melted butter instead of olive oil and The New Primal Noble Made or Frank's Red Hot Buffalo seasoning.
• Cajun: Spice things up with a mix of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder or your favorite Cajun seasoning blend.
• Greek: Go Mediterranean with oregano, garlic, and a squeeze of fresh lemon.
• Italian: Classic flavors of basil, oregano, and a hint of Parmesan cheese.
• Jamaican: Bring the island flavor with a jerk seasoning blend.
• Mexican: Use taco seasoning for your favorite south-of-the-border flavor.

What to serve with air fried chicken breasts

Sauces

• BBQ Sauce: A smoky, sweet, and tangy sauce that adds a delicious kick.
• Honey Mustard: Sweet and savory, perfect for dipping or drizzling.
• Garlic Parmesan: Creamy and cheesy with a hint of garlic.
• Buffalo Sauce: For those who love a bit of heat with their chicken.
• Teriyaki Sauce: A sweet and savory Asian-inspired option.

Side Dishes

• Vegetables: Your favorite veggies like carrots, broccoli, and green beans, either air fried or roasted.
• Mashed Potatoes: Warm and comforting, creamy mashed potatoes make a great companion to this juicy chicken.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and creamy Caesar dressing.
• Rice Pilaf: A flavorful rice dish with herbs and vegetables.
• Garlic Bread: Warm and buttery, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.

With these delicious sauces and side dishes, your chicken will be the star of a complete and satisfying meal.

Ways to use chicken

Air fried chicken breasts are not only delicious on their own but also incredibly versatile. Here are some tasty ways to use them:

• Pasta: Slice the cooked chicken breasts and toss them with cooked pasta, marinara or alfredo, asiago cream sauce, and Parmesan cheese for a simple and delicious pasta dish.
• Salad: Top your favorite salad greens with sliced chicken, add your favorite toppings, and drizzle with dressing for a hearty and healthy meal. Or opt for a simple chicken salad with mayo, celery, and rosemary.
• Rice Bowl: Serve over cooked rice or quinoa, and top with stir-fried veggies and a drizzle of teriyaki or soy sauce. This makes an easy and healthy lunch.
• Mexican: Shred the cooked chicken breasts and use them in tacos, burritos, or quesadillas. Top with salsa, guacamole, sour cream, and shredded cheese.
• Soup or Stew: Cube the cooked chicken breasts and add them to soups, stews, or chili for added protein and flavor. Simmer until heated through and serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.
• Sandwiches: Place the whole or sliced chicken breast between bread slices or in a bun with other fillings like cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and your favorite condiments.

How to store leftovers and how long they last

Store air fried chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freeze them in a freezer-safe container or plastic freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight.

How to reheat

Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3 to 5 minutes or until warmed through.

To reheat in the oven, place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet and cover them with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

More recipes for air fryer entrees

• Air Fryer Cornish Hen
• Air Fryer Chicken Cordon Bleu
• Air Fryer Frozen Whole Chicken
• Air Fryer Ground Beef
• Air Fryer Pulled Pork

Find lots of easy air fryer recipes right here on 2CM!

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