Tender and Juicy Air Fryer Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe for Air Fryer Chicken is the epitome of simplicity and deliciousness. The air fryer ensures a crispy outer layer while keeping the inside tender and juicy, making it the perfect cooking method for busy nights. It’s quicker than traditional oven baking, uses less oil, and results in perfectly cooked chicken every time. The seasoning can be easily customized, and the air fryer does all the hard work, leaving you with a mouthwatering chicken that pairs well with almost any side dish.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or 4 chicken breasts or drumsticks)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help the skin become crispy while cooking.

2. Season the chicken: Rub the chicken with olive oil and season it evenly with garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, dried thyme (if using), salt, and pepper. Make sure the seasoning is well distributed on both sides of the chicken.

3. Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.

4. Cook the chicken: Place the chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer, skin-side down. Cook for 10-12 minutes for chicken thighs, or 15-18 minutes for chicken breasts or drumsticks. Flip the chicken halfway through the cooking time to ensure an even, crispy texture.

5. Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part of the chicken. If necessary, cook for a few more minutes until it reaches the proper temperature.

6. Rest and serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings and takes about 25-30 minutes to prepare, including cooking time. The air fryer works quickly, making it an ideal weeknight meal.

Variations

• Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for some heat. You can also toss the chicken in buffalo sauce after cooking for a spicy twist.

• Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs such as rosemary, oregano, or parsley for varied flavor profiles.

• Lemon garlic: Add freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest, along with minced garlic, to the seasoning for a zesty and aromatic twist.

• Honey mustard glaze: After cooking, brush the chicken with a honey mustard glaze for a sweet and tangy finish.

Storage/reheating

Leftover air fryer chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until heated through. This will help keep the skin crispy.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken breasts or thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken, but you’ll need to reduce the cooking time. Boneless chicken breasts typically take about 15 minutes, and boneless thighs take around 10-12 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

Can I cook frozen chicken in the air fryer?

Yes, you can cook frozen chicken in the air fryer, but it will take a bit longer. For frozen chicken thighs, cook for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, and check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Can I use a different type of seasoning?

Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite seasoning blend or marinate the chicken beforehand for extra flavor. Italian seasoning, Cajun seasoning, or even lemon pepper are great alternatives.

How do I make sure the chicken stays juicy?

To keep the chicken juicy, avoid overcooking it. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken rest after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.

Can I cook chicken without oil in the air fryer?

Yes, you can skip the oil, but the chicken may not be as crispy. Oil helps achieve that golden, crispy exterior. If you prefer not to use oil, consider using a non-stick cooking spray to lightly coat the chicken.

Can I cook other cuts of chicken in the air fryer?

Yes, you can cook any cut of chicken in the air fryer, including wings, breasts, and drumsticks. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the chicken pieces.

Is the skin crispy with air fryer chicken?

Yes! The air fryer does an excellent job of crisping up the skin, especially if you use bone-in, skin-on chicken. Make sure to dry the chicken thoroughly before seasoning to get the crispiest skin.

Can I add vegetables to the air fryer with the chicken?

Yes, you can add vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or Brussels sprouts to the air fryer, but be sure to cut them into uniform sizes for even cooking. You may need to adjust the cooking time or cook the chicken and vegetables in batches for optimal results.

Can I make this recipe with chicken breasts without skin?

Yes, you can use skinless chicken breasts, but the texture may not be as crispy. Skinless chicken breasts tend to cook faster, so check them earlier (around 15 minutes).

Can I use the air fryer for a whole chicken?

Yes, you can cook a whole chicken in the air fryer. Depending on the size of your air fryer, cook the chicken at 360°F (180°C) for 25-30 minutes per side, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Conclusion

Tender and Juicy Air Fryer Chicken is a simple, delicious, and healthy way to cook chicken without compromising on flavor or texture. The air fryer cooks the chicken to perfection, providing a crispy exterior and juicy interior, all while saving time. Whether you’re cooking chicken thighs, breasts, or drumsticks, this recipe is an easy, versatile, and tasty option that the whole family will love. Try it tonight for a fast and satisfying meal!

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