10 Delicious Air Fryer Chicken Recipes You Need to Try
If you’re anything like me, you love a good, crispy piece of chicken—but without all the grease and guilt that comes with deep frying.
That’s why I’m obsessed with my air fryer! It makes cooking so much easier, faster, and healthier without sacrificing flavor.
In this post, I’m sharing 10 delicious air fryer chicken recipes that are perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re craving crispy wings, juicy drumsticks, or a classic fried chicken crunch, these recipes will have you covered. So, grab your air fryer, and let’s get cooking!
1) Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings
Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings are a tasty treat that brings the perfect blend of garlic and cheese to your plate. These wings are crispy, golden, and packed with flavor, making them a hit for game day or any casual gathering.
Marinated in garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese, these wings are then air-fried to perfection.
The result is a crunchy exterior and juicy interior that will have everyone reaching for more. Serve them with a side of dipping sauce, and you’re ready to enjoy!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken wings
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prep the Wings: Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. Place them in a large bowl.
- Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix together melted butter, minced garlic, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and half of the Parmesan cheese.
- Coat the Wings: Pour the butter mixture over the wings and toss to coat well.
- Air Fry: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are crispy and cooked through.
- Add Cheese: Once cooked, remove the wings and immediately toss them with the remaining Parmesan cheese. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
2) Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
These crispy air fryer chicken tenders are a delightful option for a quick meal or snack. They are juicy on the inside and perfectly crispy on the outside, making them a hit with both kids and adults.
The air fryer helps achieve that golden-brown crunch without the need for deep frying, meaning less oil and less mess.
You can enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce or toss them in a salad for a tasty twist!
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into strips
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko works well)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Prep the Breading: Set up three bowls—one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken strip first into the flour, then into the egg, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Cook the Tenders: Spray the basket with cooking spray and arrange the coated chicken tenders in a single layer. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Enjoy hot with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside fresh veggies!
3) Air Fryer Honey BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
Air fryer honey BBQ chicken drumsticks are a simple yet flavorful dish that brings a delightful combination of sweetness and smokiness to your table.
The drumsticks become crispy on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside, thanks to the air fryer’s efficient cooking method.
This dish is not only easy to prepare but also quick to cook, making it ideal for busy evenings. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch that everyone will love.
Serve them with your favorite sides for a complete meal!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken drumsticks
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, mix the honey, BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate: Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl and coat them well in the marinade. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the fridge for better flavor.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and preheat for about 5 minutes.
- Cook the Drumsticks: Place the marinated drumsticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Once done, let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy your honey BBQ chicken drumsticks!
4) Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Breasts
Juicy air fryer chicken breasts are perfect for a quick and delicious meal. This recipe gives you tender, flavorful chicken that cooks in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods.
With just a few simple ingredients, this dish is easy to prepare, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
Plus, you can customize the seasoning to your liking, whether you prefer something spicy, herby, or classic. Let’s get started with this tasty chicken recipe!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice sear. Place them in a mixing bowl.
- Season: Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes.
- Cook: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overlapping. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy meat.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy your delicious air fryer chicken breasts!
5) Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs
If you’re looking for a quick and tasty dish, Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs are a must-try!
This recipe combines the zesty brightness of lemon with the savory notes of pepper, creating a delightful flavor that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
In less than 30 minutes, you can have beautifully cooked chicken thighs that are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt to create a marinade.
- Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, making sure they are well coated. Let them sit for about 10 minutes if you have time.
- Place the marinated chicken in the air fryer basket, skin-side up. Cook for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Once done, remove from the air fryer, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges for an extra citrus kick.
6) Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets
Crispy air fryer chicken nuggets are a fun and tasty way to enjoy a classic favorite without the extra oil.
These nuggets are golden and crunchy on the outside while remaining juicy and tender on the inside. Perfect for kids and adults alike, they make a great snack or meal option that everyone will love.
With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a plateful of crispy chicken nuggets ready to serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
Instructions
- Prepare the Coating: In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten eggs, then roll in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat for about 5 minutes.
- Air Fry the Nuggets: Arrange the coated chicken nuggets in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Enjoy your crispy chicken nuggets with your favorite dipping sauces!
7) Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Bites
If you’re craving something spicy and satisfying, Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Bites are just the ticket! These tasty morsels pack a punch with bold buffalo flavor and are crispy on the outside while remaining juicy inside.
Plus, they’re a breeze to whip up, making them perfect for a quick meal or an easy snack for game day.
Serve them with a side of creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing and some crunchy celery sticks for the ultimate comfort food experience!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dip each piece of chicken into the flour mixture, then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
- Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Spray the basket with cooking spray, and arrange the chicken bites in a single layer. Spray the tops of the bites with more cooking spray. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown and cooked through.
- Coat with Sauce: Once the chicken is cooked, remove from the air fryer and toss in buffalo sauce until well coated.
- Serve: Plate your buffalo chicken bites with celery sticks and your choice of dipping sauce. Enjoy!
8) Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken
Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken is not only a quick and easy dish to whip up but also packed with flavor.
The sweet and tangy teriyaki sauce pairs perfectly with tender, juicy chicken, making it a delightful meal for any night of the week.
The air fryer gives the chicken a crispy exterior while keeping it moist inside, creating a satisfying texture that you’ll love.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, and ginger. Add the chicken thighs and coat them well. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and crispy.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top. Serve hot with rice and your favorite vegetables.
9) Air Fryer Chicken Fajitas
Air fryer chicken fajitas are a quick and tasty dish that combines succulent chicken pieces with colorful bell peppers and onions.
The blend of spices brings out a delightful flavor, making this meal a hit for any occasion. Plus, cooking in an air fryer keeps the chicken tender while giving it a satisfying char without excess oil.
Serve with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings for a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Tortillas for serving
- Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine chicken, bell peppers, onion, olive oil, and spices. Toss everything together until well coated.
- Add the mixture to the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
- Once cooked, check that the chicken is no longer pink in the center. Serve immediately in warm tortillas with your choice of toppings.
10) Air Fryer Garlic Butter Chicken Breast
This Air Fryer Garlic Butter Chicken Breast is a simple yet delicious dish that brings flavor to your dinner table without much fuss.
The chicken turns out juicy and tender, with a mouthwatering garlic butter sauce that elevates the dish to new heights.
You’ll love the rich flavor and golden crust that the air fryer creates, making it a favorite in any kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Make Garlic Butter: In a bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, and dried thyme.
- Coat Chicken: Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over the chicken breasts.
- Air Fry: Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (190°C). Place the chicken in the air fryer basket and cook for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the air fryer, drizzle with any remaining garlic butter, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Easy Air Fryer Chicken Dinner Recipes
There you have it—10 delicious air fryer chicken recipes that are easy, crispy, and full of flavor!
Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or whipping up something special for family and friends, these recipes prove that the air fryer is a total game-changer.
I hope you give them a try and find a new favorite (or two!). If you do, let me know which one you loved the most.
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