Irresistible Air Fryer Chicken

Why Make This Recipe

Air fryer chicken is a popular choice for many. It’s quick, easy, and offers a crispy texture without the need for deep frying. This recipe for irresistible air fryer chicken is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. The best part? You get all the flavor with less fat!

How to Make Irresistible Air Fryer Chicken

Ingredients:

  • 4 Chicken breasts or thighs (bone-in, skin-on preferred)
  • Olive oil spray
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tablespoon Paprika (smoked or sweet)
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Dried thyme or Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper

Directions:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F.
  2. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better.
  3. In a bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Lightly spray the chicken with olive oil to help the coating adhere.
  5. Press the chicken into the coating mixture until it is fully covered.
  6. Place the chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
  7. Cook for 10 minutes, then flip the chicken. Cook for another 8-10 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  8. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Irresistible Air Fryer Chicken

Serve your irresistible air fryer chicken with a side of fresh salad, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables. You can also pair it with your favorite dipping sauces for an extra flavor kick.

How to Store Irresistible Air Fryer Chicken

To store leftovers, place the chicken in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it properly before reheating.

Tips to Make Irresistible Air Fryer Chicken

  1. Ensure the chicken skin is dry for a crispier coating.
  2. Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary.
  3. For an even more flavorful chicken, marinate it a few hours before making this dish.

Variation

You can try different seasonings or add grated cheese to the breadcrumb mixture for a cheesy twist. Experiment with your favorite herbs and spices to make it your own!

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts work well, but ensure they are bone-in and skin-on for the best results.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Irresistible Air Fryer Chicken

A quick and easy recipe for crispy air fryer chicken, perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, with less fat than traditional frying.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 pieces Chicken breasts or thighs (bone-in, skin-on preferred)
  • Olive oil spray For coating
Coating Mixture
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tablespoon Paprika (smoked or sweet)
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Dried thyme or Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F.
  2. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to help the coating stick better.
  3. In a bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Lightly spray the chicken with olive oil to help the coating adhere.
  5. Press the chicken into the coating mixture until it is fully covered.
  6. Place the chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Cooking
  1. Cook the chicken for 10 minutes, then flip it.
  2. Cook for another 8-10 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  3. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Ensure the chicken skin is dry for a crispier coating. Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary. For more flavor, marinate the chicken a few hours before cooking.