Description
This Air Fryer Maple Chicken Breast recipe offers a deliciously sweet and savory flavor combination with a simple 3-ingredient glaze made from brown sugar, kosher salt, and pure maple syrup. Air fried to juicy perfection, this quick recipe is ideal for a healthy and satisfying meal in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (10-16 ounces each, trimmed)
Glaze
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (packed)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380℉ (193℃) for 5 minutes to ensure even cooking of the chicken breasts.
- Apply Maple Syrup: Using a small spoon or pastry brush, evenly brush the top of each chicken breast with 1 tablespoon of pure maple syrup to create the sweet base for the glaze.
- Prepare Brown Sugar Rub: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of packed brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Mix well.
- Coat Chicken Breasts: Divide the brown sugar and salt mixture equally between the two chicken breasts. Press the mixture onto the maple syrup-coated side of each chicken breast to ensure an even, sticky glaze.
- Air Fry the Chicken: Place the prepared chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Set the temperature to 380℉ and cook for 16-20 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through the cooking time for even browning and thorough cooking.
- Baste and Rest (Optional): Optionally, drain any collected juices from the air fryer tray and baste the chicken breasts again with the glaze for added flavor before serving.
- Rest and Serve: Let the chicken breasts rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, then slice and serve as desired for a juicy, flavorful meal.
Notes
- Make sure chicken breasts are trimmed of excess fat for even cooking.
- Flipping the chicken halfway prevents burning and helps cook evenly.
- Resting the chicken after cooking ensures juiciness.
- You can adjust the sugar and salt quantity to taste for a sweeter or less salty glaze.
- Check chicken internal temperature; it should reach 165℉ for safe consumption.