Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Breast

Name: Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Breast
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 3 teaspoons Italian seasoning; 3 teaspoons smoked paprika; Kosher salt and pepper (to taste); 3 frozen chicken breasts (same size to ensure even cooking); 3 teaspoons soy sauce; 3 tablespoons honey; 3 teaspoons hot sauce; 1 garlic clove (minced)

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Looking for an easy, quick meal that requires zero thawing and minimal prep? This Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Breast recipe is your new best friend! With just a few ingredients and less than an hour, you’ll have perfectly juicy chicken ready to serve. Let’s dive in!

You may also love my air fryer BBQ Chicken or these air fryer salmon bites.

A fork picking up a slice of chicken from a cutting board.

Perfect for busy nights when you forgot to thaw the chicken or when you just need a stress-free dinner. If you have an air fryer and love using it, then this will be a game-changer for you.

Air frying frozen chicken breast

I bet you have always wondered if it was possible to remove those frozen chicken breasts, season them, and pop them in the air fryer. I am here to confirm that you can! Its a no fuss approach for me after ive had a hectic and long day and didn’t prepare or think ahead.

This recipe is inspired by my Air Fryer Meatballs, and this chicken dish can be added to this Italian Chopped Salad.

Recipe Overview

Skill Level

Beginner

Prep Time

5 minutes

Cook Time

35 minutes

Ingredients needed:

This simple recipe requires just a few staple ingredients. You’ll love how easy it is to throw together! Below is a list of the ingredients you will need and some substitutions you can make. Full measurements are listed further down below in the recipe card.

ingredients to make frozen chicken breast in the air fryer.

Olive Oil: or you can use avocado oil
Seasonings: Italian Seasoning, Smoked Paprika, Kosher Salt & Pepper
Frozen Chicken Breasts: No need to thaw—just pop them straight into the air fryer!
Soy Sauce: A savory, salty base for the glaze.
Honey: Can be swapped with maple syrup
Hot Sauce: Adds a spicy kick, but you can adjust based on your heat tolerance.
Garlic

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps and enjoy! For detailed measurements and instructions, see the recipe card below.

Three chicken breasts on a metal sheet pan.

Three chicken breasts in an air fryer basket.

Step 1: Rub the seasoning mixture onto the frozen chicken breasts, coating them evenly.

Step 2: Cook the chicken in the air fryer on one side.

Brushing the tops of chicken with glaze.

Step 3: Turn the chicken over halfway through cooking.

Step 4: Brush the glaze over the top of the chicken and serve!

Tips from my kitchen

Make sure the chicken breasts are the same size so they cook evenly.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Don’t skip the glaze—it’s the perfect sweet-and-savory finish!

Variations:

Lemon Zest: Add a burst of fresh flavor by sprinkling some lemon zest on top of the glaze before serving.
Spicy Honey: For extra heat, try adding a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the glaze.
Herb Swap: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or thyme in the seasoning mix for a fresh twist.

Three chicken glazed breasts in an air fryer.

Make ahead and storage:

This recipe is perfect for meal prepping! Once cooked, store the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

You can also freeze the chicken (without glaze) for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop it back in the air fryer for a few minutes until heated through.