What Makes This Recipe So Good
Knowing how to cook frozen chicken breast in the air fryer is absolutely game-changing. How many times have you dug through your fridge and freezer looking for something – anything – to cook that’s easy, fast, AND tastes good, only to realize that you could have chicken if you’d just remembered to thaw it earlier? Same. Well, you’re in luck, because the air fryer totally solves that problem. With this method, you can throw your frozen chicken breast in the air fryer without any defrosting time whatsoever and end up with perfectly moist and flavorful chicken in practically no time at all. The light oil rub acts as a marinade, giving the chicken an incredible flavor without adding to the cook or prep time at all. What’s really nice, too, is that you can use any flavors and spices you like, so you’re never bored. I kept it easy with seasoning salt (or salt and black pepper) but you can absolutely use Tony Chachere’s, smoked paprika, garlic powder, dry rub, taco seasoning… SO many possibilities!
Chef’s Tips
How long to cook frozen chicken breast in the air fryer all depends on the size and thickness of the chicken breast. Essentially, the thicker the frozen chicken breast, the longer it’ll take to cook, so keep that in mind when you’re scrambling for dinner. I tested several sizes and thicknesses, and my total cook times ranged anywhere from 12 minutes up to 28 minutes. If your chicken breasts are thinner than 1″, they’ll need less time in the air fryer. Your cooking experience may differ from mine based on a variety of factors. Every air fryer behaves differently, even two of the same make and model sitting side-by-side in the same kitchen. The age of your air fryer (and the age of the frozen chicken breasts) can also have an effect on the results. Check the chicken often and use an internal meat thermometer to ensure they’re fully cooked before serving. Also, please note that I developed this recipe using a basket-style air fryer and can’t say what changes, if any, would need to be made to adapt it for an air fryer function on an oven.
Other Air Fryer Recipes You’ll Keep on Repeat
Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes Frozen Onion Rings in the Air Fryer with Bloomin’ Onion Sauce Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Nuggets Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Cookies Frozen Salmon in the Air Fryer
