Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the spices adhere better and promotes crispiness.
In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful spice rub.
Rub the spice mixture generously over both sides of each chicken breast, pressing gently to ensure even coating.
Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for about 3 minutes, allowing it to reach the ideal temperature for crispy, tender chicken.
Lightly brush the air fryer basket with olive oil or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote crispness.
Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they aren’t touching for even air circulation.
Cook the chicken for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through with tongs, until the exterior is golden brown and crispy.
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 75°C (165°F) for safe and juicy chicken.
Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.
Slice the chicken against the grain, revealing a juicy interior with a crispy, flavorful crust.
Serve immediately with your favorite sides, enjoying the tender, crispy texture and zesty flavor.
