Introduction
Crispy Air Fryer Chicken is a healthier take on classic fried chicken. Using an air fryer, the chicken comes out golden, crunchy on the outside, and juicy on the inside—without all the oil and mess of deep frying. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a quick snack.
Ingredients
1 lb chicken pieces (breasts, thighs, drumsticks, or wings)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional for extra crispiness)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Optional dipping sauces:
Honey mustard
BBQ sauce
Ranch
Instructions
Preheat Air Fryer
Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
Prepare Chicken
Pat chicken pieces dry with paper towels.
In a bowl, toss chicken with olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and optional thyme.
Optional Coating for Extra Crunch
Mix panko breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese and coat the chicken evenly.
Air Fry
Place chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if necessary.
Cook for 20–25 minutes for larger pieces, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked to 165°F (74°C). Smaller pieces or wings may cook in 12–15 minutes.
Serve
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or sides like roasted vegetables, salad, or mashed potatoes.
Description
This Air Fryer Chicken is crispy, golden, and flavorful on the outside, while remaining tender and juicy inside. The air fryer produces a deep-fried texture using little oil, making it healthier but still indulgent.
Tips
Pat chicken completely dry for maximum crispiness.
Shake or flip halfway through cooking for even browning.
Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket.
Use a thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Serve immediately for the best crunch.
Variations
Garlic Parmesan: Toss hot chicken with melted garlic butter and Parmesan.
Spicy: Add cayenne, chili powder, or hot sauce to the seasoning.
Honey Butter: Brush with a mixture of honey and melted butter after cooking.
Lemon Herb: Toss with lemon juice, zest, and fresh parsley before serving.
Breaded: Dip chicken in egg before coating with panko for extra crunch.
Correction
If chicken is dry: Reduce cooking time or brush with oil before serving.
If chicken is not crispy: Increase temperature for the last 2–3 minutes.
If chicken is unevenly cooked: Cut pieces evenly and avoid overcrowding the basket.
Enjoy
Serve Crispy Air Fryer Chicken as a main dish, snack, or party appetizer. Pair it with dipping sauces, sides, or a fresh salad for a complete, flavorful meal.