From classics like air fryer chicken tenders and air fryer chicken nuggets to healthier versions like chicken parmesan, you're sure to find plenty of recipes you'll love in this roundup of the best air fryer chicken recipes.
Easy Air Fryer Chicken Recipe
My air fryer is one of my favorite kitchen gadgets. It has literally revolutionized my dinner preparation and has given me a way to get that crispy fried texture without having to soak food in oil! I use my air fryer at least twice a week, whether it’s for dinner or as a party appetizer.
Chicken is one of my go-to proteins when it comes to healthy cooking, so it’s no surprise that I’ve been experimenting with a variety of air fryer chicken recipes combining the two. Below, you’ll find some of my favorite recipes, from kid-friendly chicken nuggets to healthier versions like air fryer chicken parmesan and air fryer chimichangas.
Why should you cook chicken in an air fryer?
Let me tell you a few reasons why I cook chicken using my air fryer.
- It's healthier than frying. The biggest advantage of cooking anything in an air fryer is that it is much better than frying because you don't need to add as much oil.
- It's crispier than the oven. Plus, most air fryer chicken recipes come out much crispier than the same recipe made in the oven because of the way the air circulates.
- It's quick and easy. And finally, most air fryer chicken recipes only require a few minutes of preparation, no preheating required, and a cooking time of less than 30 minutes. Some of these recipes are ready in just minutes!
General Questions
- Can you put raw meat in an air fryer? Yes, of course! Most of these air fryer chicken recipes start with raw chicken. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165F.
- Why does chicken get tough when I put it in the air fryer? If the chicken is tough, it was most likely cooked for too long or at too high a temperature. This can cause the chicken to become dry and tough.
- Do I need oil when putting chicken in the air fryer? No. The great thing about making chicken in an air fryer is that most of the time you don't need any oil. However, if you want to get a golden crust on the breading, I like to use a minimal amount of oil for best results.
- Should I Flip Chicken in the Air Fryer? It depends on the recipe, but most air fryer chicken recipes generally have the heating element on top, so you'll need to flip it halfway through to get even cooking.
36 Best Air Fryer Chicken Recipes
So without further ado, let’s get right into the recipe. These air fryer chicken recipes range from full dinners to appetizers and snacks, to classics like chicken tenders and chicken nuggets. What all these recipes have in common is that they’re easy to make!
Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets
Crispy and perfectly golden, these air fryer chicken cutlets cook in minutes and are perfectly juicy on the inside. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner.
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Chicken Eggplant Parmesan
Chicken Eggplant Parmesan is air-fried chicken topped with Eggplant marinara sauce and fresh mozzarella. An easy and healthy weeknight meal.
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Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan is a healthy alternative to the fried classic and tastes just as good! Tender, crispy, juicy, and loaded with perfectly melted cheese, it’s perfect for salads or pasta.
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Oven fried chicken
Don't let the name fool you, this oven fried chicken is also easy to cook in your air fryer! It's moist, juicy, and super crispy on the outside.
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Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls
These Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls will quickly become a hit at any game day party you host! Filled with ground chicken, buffalo sauce, carrots, and green onions, they're sure to be a hit.
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Bang Bang Chicken Salad
This Bang Bang Chicken Salad starts with tender, juicy air-fried chicken chunks and an irresistible Bang Bang sauce. It's quick, easy, and perfect for lunch!
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I hope you enjoyed this recipe! If you’re looking for more recipes, be sure to check out our entire collection of air fryer recipes.
