If you’re looking for quick, crispy, and juicy chicken without deep-frying, you’re going to love these chicken recipes for the air fryer. Whether you’re a busy parent, meal prepper, or just someone who loves a no-fuss dinner, the air fryer is a game changer. Not only does it cut down cooking time, but it also uses way less oil — and the results are still mouthwateringly delicious.
In this post, we’re sharing 9 air fryer chicken recipes that are beginner-friendly, family-approved, and packed with flavor.
Why Cook Chicken in an Air Fryer?
Before we dive into the recipes, here’s why so many home cooks swear by their air fryer for chicken:
- Crispy outside, juicy inside – without deep-frying
- Faster cooking time than a traditional oven
- Healthier meals with less oil
- Easy cleanup (especially if you use parchment liners)
- Great for small kitchens and quick weeknight dinners
Now let’s get to the recipes!
1. Air Fryer Chicken Thighs (Crispy & Juicy)
Prep Time: 10 min
Cook Time: 18 min
These air fryer chicken thighs come out crispy on the outside with tender, juicy meat inside.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Pat chicken dry with paper towels.
- Rub thighs with olive oil and season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place thighs skin side down and cook for 10 minutes. Flip and cook for another 8 minutes.
- Check that internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
Tip: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving for maximum juiciness.
2. Air Fryer Chicken Breasts (Perfect Every Time)
Prep Time: 5 min
Cook Time: 15 min
No more dry chicken breasts! This recipe keeps them tender with a simple spice blend.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper
Instructions:
- Rub chicken with oil and seasonings.
- Preheat air fryer to 370°F (188°C).
- Cook for 7–8 minutes on each side.
- Check for doneness (internal temp 165°F).
Serve with: steamed broccoli or a fresh salad.
3. Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Wings
Prep Time: 10 min
Cook Time: 25 min
Crispy wings tossed in buffalo sauce — a game day (or any day) classic!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken wings
- 1 tbsp baking powder (helps crispiness)
- Salt & pepper
- ½ cup buffalo sauce
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions:
- Pat wings dry. Toss in baking powder, salt, and pepper.
- Air fry at 375°F for 25 minutes, shaking halfway.
- Mix buffalo sauce and butter, toss wings until coated.
Serve with: celery sticks and ranch or blue cheese dip.
4. Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (Kid-Friendly)
Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 10 min
Crispy on the outside and tender inside — perfect for kids or dipping lovers.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated parmesan
- 2 eggs, beaten
- ½ cup flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper
Instructions:
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Dredge in flour → dip in egg → coat in breadcrumb-parmesan mix.
- Air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes, flipping halfway.
Serve with: ketchup, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce.
5. Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks
Prep Time: 10 min
Cook Time: 25 min
Drumsticks are budget-friendly, flavorful, and super crispy in the air fryer.
Ingredients:
- 6 chicken drumsticks
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper
Instructions:
- Toss drumsticks in oil and spices.
- Air fry at 375°F for 25 minutes, turning every 8 minutes.
- Ensure internal temp reaches 165°F.
Tip: Add a dry rub or BBQ glaze before the last 5 minutes for extra flavor.
6. Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
Prep Time: 20 min
Cook Time: 12 min
This healthier version of the Italian classic is crispy without frying.
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts (halved and pounded)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- ½ cup marinara sauce
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella
Instructions:
- Bread the chicken (egg → breadcrumb mix).
- Air fry at 400°F for 10–12 minutes.
- Top with marinara and cheese, then return to air fryer for 2 minutes.
Serve with: spaghetti or roasted veggies.
7. Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Breast
Prep Time: 5 min
Cook Time: 15 min
A quick, flavorful recipe that’s great for meal prep or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts
- ½ cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper
Instructions:
- Season chicken and brush with BBQ sauce.
- Air fry at 375°F for 15 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Brush on more sauce and air fry for another 2 minutes if desired.
8. Air Fryer Chicken Fajitas
Prep Time: 10 min
Cook Time: 15 min
All the fajita flavor without the skillet mess.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper
Instructions:
- Toss all ingredients in a bowl to coat.
- Air fry at 375°F for 15 minutes, shaking halfway.
Serve with: tortillas, guac, and lime wedges.
9. Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets
Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 10 min
Forget frozen nuggets — these are crispy, juicy, and made from real chicken.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into chunks
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- ½ tsp paprika
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup flour
- Salt & pepper
Instructions:
- Season chicken, dredge in flour → egg → breadcrumbs.
- Air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes, shaking halfway.
Serve with: ketchup, sriracha mayo, or your favorite dip.
Air Fryer Chicken Tips for Success
- Preheat your air fryer for even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket — air needs to circulate!
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
- Lightly spray with oil for a golden, crispy texture.
- Let it rest after cooking for juicier results.
Final Thoughts
Cooking chicken in the air fryer is a fast, healthy, and delicious way to enjoy your favorite meals without the grease or hassle. Whether you’re craving crispy wings, juicy thighs, or cheesy chicken parmesan, these chicken recipes for air fryer are sure to become staples in your weekly rotation.