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Air Fryer Chicken

Here's a delicious, crispy, and juicy air-fried chicken recipe that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor! Overall, this is a budget-friendly, protein-packed meal that’s cheaper and healthier than takeout!
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Keyword crispy air fryer chicken
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Rest 5 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 200kcal
Author Creator Child
Cost $5.50

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

Optional Steps:
  • Baking powder helps crisp up the outside.
  • Marinate for 30 minutes for even more flavor (optional).
Pro Tips:
  • Don't overcrowd the basket—air needs to circulate for even cooking.
Serving Sizes:
  • This recipe serves 2 to 4 people, depending on portion sizes. If using two large chicken breasts, you can slice them to serve 4, or keep them whole for 2 heartier portions.
Prep Time:
  • If you choose to marinate the chicken, add 30 minutes to the prep time (optional).
Calories:
  • If using chicken thighs, add about 50-60 extra calories per serving due to the higher fat content.