Air Fryer Chicken
Juicy, golden, and perfectly crispy Air Fryer Chicken that tastes like comfort food without the mess of deep frying. Quick, flavorful, and customizable for any night of the week.
Ingredients
Air Fryer Chicken Ingredients
- 4 –6 chicken thighs or drumsticks skin-on for extra crisp
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp cayenne optional, for a lil’ kick
Optional Decorations
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
- Lemon wedges for squeezing over the top
Instructions
Prep the Chicken
- Pat your chicken dry with paper towels — moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Toss it in olive oil, then sprinkle on all your spices. Massage it in like you’re giving the chicken a little spa day.
Preheat the Air Fryer
- Set it to 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes. Preheating is key for that perfect golden crunch.
Air Fry That Chicken
- Place the chicken in the basket in a single layer. Cook for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through. Your kitchen will start smelling like heaven, and you’ll probably sneak a piece before it’s even done.
Check for Doneness
- Internal temperature should hit 165°F (74°C). If you want extra crisp, give it 3–5 more minutes. You’ll see that golden brown perfection and hear that satisfying crunch when you bite in.
Serve & Enjoy
- Plate it up, sprinkle with fresh herbs, squeeze a little lemon over the top, and grab your favorite sides. That first bite? Juicy, crispy, and 100% worth the happy dance you did earlier.
Notes
- Pat chicken completely dry before seasoning — this is the secret to ultimate crispiness.
- Use chicken thighs, drumsticks, or even wings — just adjust cooking time slightly.
- If you prefer boneless cuts, reduce cooking time by about 5–7 minutes.
- Spice blends are totally customizable — play with herbs, chili powder, or even a drizzle of honey in the last 5 minutes.
- Leftovers? Reheat in the air fryer for 5 minutes at 350°F to bring back that crunch.