Craving a quick and flavorful dinner without the hassle? This Easy Air Fryer Lemon Chicken is just what you need! It’s the perfect blend of zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and tender, juicy chicken—all cooked to perfection in an air fryer. This low-carb, keto-friendly dish is a great option for anyone wanting a healthy and tasty meal in under 30 minutes.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The air fryer is a game-changer when it comes to cooking chicken. It locks in all the juices while creating a crispy exterior, all without excess oil. The fresh lemon zest and juice elevate this dish with a bright and tangy flavor. Best of all, it’s easy to prep and makes for an elegant yet simple dinner option.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 ½ lbs)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Marinade
- Create the marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or zip-lock bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. For deeper flavor, you can marinate it in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours.
Step 2: Cook in the Air Fryer
- Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) and let it preheat for 2-3 minutes.
- Arrange the chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding; if needed, cook in batches.
- Air fry the chicken: Cook for 10 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 5-7 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 3: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley: Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a few lemon slices if desired.
- Serve hot: Pair it with a light side salad, roasted vegetables, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal.
Tips for Success
- Don’t skip the preheating: Preheating the air fryer ensures even cooking and a slightly crispy exterior.
- Check the internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature hits 165°F to avoid overcooking and drying out the chicken.
- Marinate for more flavor: While 15 minutes works for a quick fix, letting the chicken marinate for up to 2 hours infuses it with more lemony goodness.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete low-carb meal, serve this lemon chicken with sautéed asparagus, garlic green beans, or a simple cucumber and tomato salad. It’s also perfect for meal prep—just pair with your favorite keto side dishes for an easy grab-and-go lunch option.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 260
- Fat: 12g
- Carbs: 3g
- Protein: 35g
Why It’s Keto & Low-Carb
This dish is naturally low in carbs, making it ideal for anyone following a keto or low-carb diet. The olive oil provides healthy fats, and the lemon juice and spices add bold flavors without extra carbs.
Final Thoughts
Cooking chicken in an air fryer takes the hassle out of dinner while still delivering restaurant-quality results. The zesty lemon marinade combined with the air fryer’s quick cooking time results in a perfectly juicy and flavorful chicken dish. Give it a try, and you’ll have a new weeknight favorite on your hands!
Have you tried this recipe? Drop a comment below with your thoughts or any variations you made. Happy cooking, and stay tuned for more easy and delicious recipes! 🍋🍗