Air Fryer Lemon Butter Chicken
A bright and comforting chicken dish, marinated in lemon and butter, cooked to perfection in an air fryer for a quick and special weeknight meal.
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 4 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut to equal thickness For even cooking
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice For bright flavor
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest Enhances the lemon flavor
- 1/4 cup butter, melted Salted or unsalted according to preference
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated Adds depth of flavor
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Helps the marinade cling
- 1 tablespoon honey Balances the flavors
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped For garnish
- to taste salt and pepper Season generously for best flavor
- a pinch red pepper flakes Optional for heat
Instructions
Marinade Preparation
- Pat the chicken dry to help the marinade stick.
- In a bowl, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, melted butter, olive oil, garlic, honey, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Add chicken to the bowl and toss to coat. Allow to marinate for 20 to 60 minutes in the fridge.
Cooking in the Air Fryer
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
- Remove excess marinade from the chicken to prevent sogginess.
- Arrange chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd.
- Cook for 10 to 12 minutes for breasts, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
- In the last two minutes, melt an extra tablespoon of butter and baste the chicken while it finishes cooking.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before removing.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For added flavors, you can experiment with different herbs or spices in the marinade. Serve with sides like garlic parmesan potatoes, salad, or warm pita.