Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for about 5 minutes until it’s hot and ready to cook.
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels until they feel slightly tacky but not wet, removing excess moisture for crispiness.
Using a kitchen brush, coat each chicken breast evenly with olive oil, covering all sides to help seasonings stick and promote crispness.
Sprinkle salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme generously over both sides of each chicken breast, pressing lightly to help the seasonings adhere.
Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch to allow hot air to circulate freely.
Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through using tongs. Look for a deep golden crust and an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).
Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes; this allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken for a bright, zingy finish that complements the crispy exterior.
Slice the chicken crosswise to showcase the juicy interior and crispy crust, then serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
