This Is the Only Guide You Need for Air Fryer Chicken: How to Master 3 Cuts for Tender, Juicy Results

I don't know where I'd be without my air fryer. Especially on busy weeknights, it saves me a lot of time on dinners that would normally take an hour (and leave a big mess). You can whip up just about anything in this clever kitchen gadget, but my favorite has to be chicken. That's right, it's an easy decision to skip the oven and frying pan for your next winner, winner, chicken dinner . But if you've never tried it before—don't worry. You're reading the ultimate guide to air fryer chicken that covers every cut you love, from breasts to thighs. With simple tips and step-by-step instructions, you'll have perfectly cooked, juicy chicken in no time.

The pros of cooking chicken in the air fryer

You may have heard of air fryer hot dogs or air fryer fries . But air fryer chicken? It turns out, this method delivers the same results without the need for preheating your oven or using a frying pan. Not only does it give you that crispy, golden-brown exterior with no grease, but it also cooks your chicken quickly and evenly.

You can also say goodbye to dry, overcooked chicken with the air fryer. And on top of all of that, it's a healthier option—using minimal oil while still delivering on taste and texture.

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General tips for air fryer chicken

Before we dive in, let's talk about some general tips that will set you up for success. First off, always preheat your air fryer. This helps ensure that your chicken starts cooking right away, giving you that crispy crust we all love. Second, temperature is key: most cuts of chicken cook best at 375°F to 400°F. However, some cuts tend to dry out faster—so I reccommend checking frequently with an instant read thermometer.

Third, don't overcrowd the basket—air needs to circulate around the chicken to cook it evenly. Aim for an even, single layer with no overlapping, or fry in batches. Finally, remember to flip your chicken halfway through cooking for the best results. You don't want one side crispy and the other soft.

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Mastering 3 cuts of air fryer chicken

Ok, so we've covered the basics—now, on to the cuts and how to air fry each like a pro. Whether you're cooking for one or feeding your family, the air fryer has you covered.

1. Chicken breasts

Chicken breasts are a staple in many households, thanks to their versatility and lean protein content. But they can be tricky to cook without drying out (as I learned the hard way). Luckily, the air fryer helps keep them juicy while still giving you that desirable crispy exterior.

How to air fry

• Prep: Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This ensures they cook evenly.
• Season: I like to season with salt, pepper and garlic powder, but feel free to get creative with your spices. You can also rub a dry salt brine and let the chicken rest to absorb excess liquid.
• Cook: Place the breasts in the air fryer basket at 375°F for about 15 to 18 minutes, flipping halfway through. Check frequently for an internal temperature of 165°F to avoid dryness.

2. Chicken thighs

If you want more bang for your buck, chicken thighs are where it's at. They have a higher fat content than breasts, which makes them extra moist and flavorful. And in the air fryer? They’re unbeatable.

How to air fry

• Prep: Pat the thighs dry to remove any excess moisture. This helps them get crispy.
• Season: Rub them with olive oil and season with your favorite spices—I personally love a paprika, cumin and oregano combo.
• Cook: Air fry skin-side down at 400°F for about 20 to 25 minutes, turning halfway. The internal temperature should reach 175°F for that perfect juicy bite.

3. Chicken wings

These wings might just be better than takeout (maybe). Whether it’s game day or just a regular Friday night, air fryer chicken wings are always a crowd pleaser. Plus, you can enjoy them without all the grease.

How to air fry

• Prep: Pat the wings dry and toss them in a little baking powder. This helps them get extra crispy.
• Season: You can go classic with just salt and pepper, or spice things up with other spices like cayenne and smoked paprika.
• Cook: Arrange the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket (so they cook evenly) and cook at 400°F for 25 to 30 minutes, shaking the basket every 10 minutes.

More air fryer recipes to enjoy:

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You’ll Love Air Fryer Zucchini Fries: Easy Recipe Cooks Up Crispy in 8 Minutes