If you’ve ever wanted perfectly crispy, juicy, and flavorful chicken with minimal effort, this air fryer chicken recipe is for you! Using just a handful of pantry-friendly ingredients, this dish is quick, easy, and healthier than deep-fried chicken. Plus, thanks to the air fryer, you get golden-brown, crispy skin (or a delicious crust on skinless chicken) without needing excess oil.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy & Juicy – Air frying locks in moisture while creating a crispy, golden crust.
- Fast & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
- Healthier Option – Uses much less oil than deep frying.
- Versatile – Works with chicken breasts, thighs, or drumsticks.
- Kid-Friendly – Simple flavors everyone will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1
Gather
To make the perfect Air Fryer Chicken, you’ll need a few simple tools. An air fryer is obviously key, with basket-style models giving the crispiest results. Tongs help flip the chicken easily, while a meat thermometer ensures it reaches a safe 165°F (75°C) without overcooking. A mixing bowl for seasoning and paper towels for patting the chicken dry will also make a big difference in getting that perfect golden-brown crust!
Here’s What I Used
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2
Prep
First things first, pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step helps the chicken develop a crispy, golden exterior in the air fryer instead of turning soggy, so don’t skip it.
In a small bowl, combine the spices: garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, cayenne (if using), and baking powder. You’re going to drizzle the chicken with olive oil, then rub our seasoning mix all over to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
From there, it’s time to preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C) and let it heat for about 3 minutes–or as long as your device instructions say. A hot air fryer ensures even cooking and helps lock in that crispy texture right from the start.
Julie’s #1 Tip for Success
Use baking powder! This secret ingredient helps create a crispy, golden exterior.
3
Cook
Now lay the chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer—no stacking! Give each piece some space to let the hot air circulate properly, which makes sure you get evenly crispy & juicy chicken every time.
If you’re cooking chicken breasts, go for 9-10 minutes per side (that’s about 18-20 minutes total). For thighs, they’ll need 8 minutes per side (or about 16 minutes total). Make sure to flip halfway through so both sides crisp up perfectly!
The best way to know it’s done but not overcooked and dry? Use a meat thermometer! Your chicken should hit 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part. If it’s not quite there, pop it back in for 2-3 more minutes, then check again.
Tips & Tricks
- Don’t skip the preheating – A hot air fryer gives you the best texture.
- Cook in a single layer – Overcrowding leads to uneven cooking.
- Flip halfway through – Ensures even crispiness on both sides.
- Check temperature early – Air fryers vary, so check at 15 minutes to prevent overcooking.
4
Rest
Give the chicken a quick 5-minute rest before slicing—it’s worth the wait! This helps lock in all those flavorful juices, keeping your chicken tender and super juicy instead of drying out.
Watch How to Make this Air Fryer Chicken
A crispy, juicy game-changer! Watch the video for step-by-step instructions, pro tips, and the secret to getting that perfect golden crust.
This Chicken Goes With Anything
Whether you’re cooking chicken breasts, thighs, or drumsticks, this recipe delivers tender, well-seasoned meat in under 30 minutes. Serve it with a side of roasted veggies, salad, or your favorite dipping sauce for a meal the whole family will love!
What to Serve with Air Fryer Chicken
Pair this crispy chicken with:
- Mashed potatoes – Classic comfort food.
- Roasted Brussels sprouts – Adds a nutritious crunch.
- Garlic butter rice – Perfect for soaking up flavors.
- Side salad – A fresh, light contrast to the crispy chicken.
- Honey mustard or ranch dip – Because who doesn’t love dipping sauce?
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How to Store & Reheat
Got leftovers? Keep your air fryer chicken fresh and crispy with these easy storage and reheating tips! Whether you’re saving it for tomorrow or freezing for later, we’ve got you covered.
- Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container and they’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Want to save it for later? Freeze in a sealed bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheating:
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bone-in chicken?
Yes! Just increase cooking time by 5-7 minutes and check for 165°F doneness.
Can I air fry frozen chicken?
Yes! Add 5 extra minutes per side and season after the first flip.
Can I make this recipe keto-friendly?
Absolutely! It’s already low-carb—just pair it with a keto-friendly side.
What’s the best dipping sauce?
Try ranch, honey mustard, BBQ, or spicy mayo!
This is the Best Air Fryer Chicken Ever!
This air fryer chicken recipe is truly the best way to get crispy, juicy chicken without deep frying. It’s quick, healthy, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect go-to for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Give it a try and let me know your favorite way to serve it in the comments below! 🔥
Want More Recipes Like This One?
Love this dish? Discover more easy, flavorful recipes that you’ll want to make again and again. From crispy air fryer favorites to comforting classics, there’s plenty to try next!
Air Fryer Chicken
Equipment
- Air fryer any model will work (basket or oven-style)
- Tongs for flipping the chicken safely
- Meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F
- Small bowl for mixing the seasoning
- Paper towels to pat the chicken dry
- Knife if trimming or slicing before serving
- Cutting board if trimming or slicing before serving
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts skinless & boneless
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Optional
- 4 chicken thighs if preferred over chicken breasts
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper for heat
- ½ teaspoon baking powder for extra crispiness
Instructions
Prep
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps it crisp up in the air fryer.2 large chicken breasts
- In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, cayenne (if using), and baking powder. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken, then coat evenly with the seasoning mix.
- Set the air fryer to 380°F (190°C) and let it preheat for about 3 minutes.
Cook
- Place the chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Breasts: Cook for 9-10 minutes per side (18-20 minutes total).
- Thighs: Cook for 8 minutes per side (16 minutes total).
- Use a meat thermometer—chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) internally. If needed, cook for an extra 2-3 minutes.
Rest
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Video
Notes
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