I’ve had my air fryer for a bit over a year now, and I find it a super way to cook crispy food without the unhealthy oil or long oven times that also use up more electricity. One thing I really love about it is its ability to make crispy chips and that’s probably why I keep putting on weight! Another very cool and easy thing to do is to cook some chicken pieces in it – it’s nice and crispy and it won’t be oily and unhealthy. In this post I’ll show you some super easy air fryer chicken recipes.
Another useful thing about them is that they are really helpful for mealtime stress and busy moms. With Nicky doing very long drawn out chess tournaments on a Saturday, I quickly pop in some samoosas in the morning before I go for five minutes and that is our lunch for the day. Similarly, a piece of chicken can be defrosted and heated up very quickly. I will defrost in the microwave and then pop it in the air fryer for two minutes just to make it nice and crispy, and there’s Nicky’s drumstick for his meal.
My air fryer is the Philips XXL and it’s got some useful buttons that make it even easier to cook. I just press the chicken drumstick picture and adjust the time, depending on how many chickens I am doing.
Getting my fussy eater to eat chicken
Another great thing about these recipes is that they are all part of my plan to get Nicky to eat chicken. He doesn’t really eat much of it and I want to get some protein in his body, so this was my plan and this is how it went:
- Feed him chicken wings during a playdate (Result: the friend ate the wings to the bones and Nicky ate some of it!)
- Give him drumsticks that look a bit like KFC (Result: he takes a few bites, but it’s better than nothing…)
Why Use an Air Fryer for Chicken?
If you’re searching for quick, healthy, and delicious meals, the air fryer is your best friend. It’s not just a gadget; it’s a complete game-plan for changing how you cook chicken for the better. Whether you’re a busy mum or a kitchen newbie, air fryers combine speed, health benefits, and simplicity—qualities that make them ideal for preparing chicken recipes.
Health Benefits of Air Frying Chicken
One of the greatest perks of air frying chicken is its health advantages. Air fryers rely on hot air circulation rather than oil to cook food, cutting fat content without compromising on flavour or texture. In fact, air-fried chicken maintains its nutritional value while drastically reducing your overall calorie intake. Compared to deep-frying, this method can reduce fat content by up to 70%–80%, making it a fantastic choice for anyone watching their weight or cholesterol levels (source).
With no need to submerge chicken in oil, you’re also avoiding harmful acrylamides that form during high-heat frying. Plus, air fryers are perfect for cooking lean cuts of meat, like skinless chicken breasts, because they help retain juiciness without requiring unhealthy marinades.
Faster Cooking Times and Efficiency
Ever wish dinner didn’t feel like a race against the clock? With an air fryer, chicken recipes cook in a fraction of the time compared to traditional ovens. A crispy chicken thigh that might take 45 minutes in the oven can be done in just 20 minutes in an air fryer. The beauty of this is how it frees up extra time, making life easier for mums juggling multiple responsibilities.
Air fryers also preheat in record time so every second counts—ideal for those chaotic weeknight meals. They’re also more energy-efficient than heating up your oven for a small meal, which is not only practical but eco-friendly too.
Beginner-Friendly Features
For anyone new to cooking or just starting with their air fryer, you’ll appreciate the built-in features that make it nearly impossible to mess up. Many air fryers come equipped with presets, specifically tailored for different kinds of foods, including chicken. Got frozen chicken nuggets? Press a button. Making homemade chicken wings? Select the “poultry” setting and let the machine do the work. What I normally do is press the chicken and then adjust the time. The same for chips. So the greater the quantity, the more time you will need.
From neatly cooked chicken breasts to crispy drumsticks, these machines are practically foolproof—an absolute treasure for beginners still earning their kitchen confidence.
Cooking chicken in an air fryer simplifies meal preparation while prioritising health and efficiency. Ready to give it a go? Stay tuned for some irresistible air fryer chicken recipes that even a novice chef can handle.
Three Must-Try Air Fryer Chicken Recipes for Beginners
When you’re new to using an air fryer, chicken makes for a perfect starting point. It’s versatile, quick to cook, and can be tailored to suit everyone’s tastes. Whether you’re whipping up a party snack, a healthy main dish, or a kid-friendly lunch, these air fryer chicken recipes are ideal for beginners.
Chicken Air Fryer Recipes: Wings, Thighs and Drumsticks:
Recipe 1: Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings
There’s nothing more satisfying than biting into crispy, golden chicken wings. Air frying ensures you get that classic crunchy texture without the extra grease—perfect for sharing or even indulging on your own.
Ingredients:
- 500g chicken wings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: BBQ sauce or hot sauce for glazing
Marinating Tips:
- Toss the wings in olive oil and spices for an even coating.
- Let them sit for at least 30 minutes in the fridge (or up to overnight for deeper flavour).
Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F).
- Place the chicken wings in the basket in a single layer, ensuring they’re not overcrowded.
- Cook for 10 minutes, then open the basket and flip each wing using tongs. This ensures even crispiness on both sides.
- Cook for another 8-10 minutes or until the skin is golden brown and crunchy.
- Serve plain, or toss them in your favourite sauce for a flavour-packed finish.
Recipe 2: Crispy Southern-Style Chicken Drumsticks
This is what I do for Nicky on a Wednesday night to get him to eat chicken. It’s the closest I can get to Kentucky Fried Chicken without actually going there. I normally do 3 chicken drumsticks at a time and then freeze the other two for another week. I cook them for about 17 -20 mins but it’s important to flip them halfway otherwise you’ll still get that flour on one side. I serve them with vegetables and chips (the chips are also cooked in the air fryer). For three chicken drumsticks you can do one container of the coating and another container of one egg. The recipe below is for 6 drumsticks.
Ingredients:
- 6 chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup Hinds Southern Coating (any flavour variant you prefer)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Optional: 2 tablespoons olive oil or oil spray
Cooking Instructions:
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels to help the coating adhere better.
- Set up your coating station:
- In one bowl, beat the eggs.
- In another bowl, pour the Hinds Southern Coating.
- Coat the drumsticks:
- Dip each drumstick into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Roll the drumstick in the Hinds Southern Coating until fully covered. Shake off excess coating.
- Preheat your air fryer: Set it to 200°C (390°F) and let it preheat for 3-5 minutes.
- Cook the drumsticks:
- Lightly spray or brush the drumsticks with olive oil to enhance crispiness.
- Place the drumsticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring there’s space between each piece.
- Cook for 10 minutes, then flip the drumsticks. Cook for another 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F). The coating should be golden brown and crispy.
- Rest and serve: Let the drumsticks sit for 5 minutes before serving. Serve hot with dipping sauce, coleslaw, or fresh salad.
Pro Tip:
For extra flavour, marinate the drumsticks in buttermilk for 1–2 hours before coating. This will tenderise the chicken and make the coating stick even better.
Recipe 3: Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Chicken thighs are naturally juicy and packed with flavour. Cooking them in the air fryer helps achieve a golden, crispy skin without much oil or effort.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for 3-5 minutes.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy finish.
- Lightly brush olive oil on each thigh and rub the spices evenly over the chicken.
- Place the thighs in the air fryer basket, skin side down, without overcrowding.
Cook for 10 minutes on 180°C , then flip the thighs and cook for another 10-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F). (Mine were a bit pink inside after the second round of 5 mins – so you’ll need to do at least another 10).
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in the juices.
Optional Extras:
Drizzle fresh lemon juice or sprinkle chopped parsley on top for added freshness.
Pair with roasted veggies or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
I did some chips and what was nice was the juice and flavours were still there (even though I’d used the liner) so the chips were really tasty. I then added some cucumber and tomatoes as an extra.
Perfectly cooked chicken tenders are a lifesaver for busy weekday lunches or kids’ lunchboxes. Pair these crispy delights with dipping sauces, and you’ve got a winner.
Looking for more lunchbox inspiration? Don’t miss these lunchbox ideas for picky eaters to keep things fun and exciting!
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Every Time
Achieving perfectly cooked chicken in an air fryer can seem intimidating for beginners, but it doesn’t have to be. With just a handful of tips, you can consistently create juicy, crispy, and delicious chicken that will make you wonder why you didn’t try air frying sooner. Here’s how to get it right every time.
Preheating and Using Cooking Spray
Much like your oven, preheating your air fryer ensures heat is evenly distributed right from the beginning. Skipping this step can lead to uneven cooking, which is especially noticeable with chicken. Always preheat your air fryer around 3-5 minutes before cooking.
To get that mouth-watering golden, crispy skin, lightly spray your chicken with oil. While the air fryer uses significantly less oil than traditional methods, a quick spray ensures your chicken won’t turn out dry or unevenly browned. Opt for a high smoke point oil like olive oil or avocado oil spray to avoid any burnt flavours. No oil spray bottle? Just use a pastry brush to coat the chicken evenly.
Avoiding Overcrowding
One of the easiest mistakes to make is overcrowding the air fryer basket. Picture this: cramming in too much chicken might save you time upfront, but it’ll rob you of that crispy, restaurant-quality texture. Why? Air circulation is key—the hot air needs room to flow around each piece of chicken. If there’s no space, you’ll end up with soggy spots, and nobody wants that.
For maximum crispiness, lay your chicken pieces in a single layer and don’t let them touch. If you’re cooking for a crowd, it’s worth doing multiple batches. Yes, it takes a bit longer, but the results are absolutely worth it.
Checking Internal Temperature
It’s easy to eyeball chicken and assume it’s done when it looks golden and crispy. But the true test? The internal temperature. Using a food thermometer isn’t just for chefs—it’s a foolproof way to prevent undercooked or dry chicken. For safety and perfect doneness, ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).
To check, insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, avoiding the bone. Remember, chicken continues to cook for a few minutes after being removed from the air fryer, so let it rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. This keeps the juices locked in and ensures every bite is the right mix of juicy and flavourful.
For more in-depth directions to perfect your chicken every time, consider this Ridiculously Good Air Fryer Chicken Breast Recipe.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be on your way to consistently nailing air fryer chicken like a pro.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using an Air Fryer
Using an air fryer might seem completely foolproof, but even the most advanced kitchen gadget can trip us up if we’re not paying attention. Whether you’re aiming for perfectly crispy chicken or trying out a new recipe, steering clear of these common mistakes will save you a lot of hassle—and ensure excellent results every time!
Not Shaking or Flipping
When you leave food sitting in one position while cooking, some areas may crisp up nicely, whereas others stay soft or even soggy. This is especially true for chicken because the outer layer relies on even exposure to the hot air circulating in the fryer.
Why does it matter? Imagine baking cookies but forgetting to rotate the tray. One side would turn golden, while the other side could burn or stay undercooked. The same principle applies here. Flipping or shaking your food halfway through ensures that every side gets equal attention from the air fryer’s heating power.
How to fix it?
- Set a timer midway through the cooking process so you don’t forget to flip or shake. If you’re working with smaller pieces like chicken wings or nuggets, simply give the basket a good shake. For larger pieces like chicken breasts or thighs, use tongs to flip them individually.
- Avoid shaking too aggressively, as this can cause fragile breading or coatings to fall off.
This small step can make a big difference in texture and avoid upsetting flavours. So next time, set that reminder—your taste buds will thank you! Here’s a quick-read guide on air fryer mistakes and how to avoid them.
Skipping the Cleaning Process
Let’s be honest—cleaning up isn’t anyone’s favourite part of cooking. But ignoring your air fryer’s maintenance can lead to seriously disappointing meals. Over time, grease and food particles can build up, affecting how your fryer works and even altering the flavour of your chicken.
Why is cleaning necessary? A dirty air fryer isn’t just gross; it can slow down or block air circulation. Plus, leftover crumbs and residue can burn during the next use, giving your chicken an unpleasant taste or smell—and no one wants that! Not cleaning properly may also explain why some air fryer recipes fail to deliver the golden crispiness you’re expecting.
How to clean your air fryer effectively:
- Unplug and cool down. Always let the air fryer cool completely before cleaning—it’s safer and easier.
- Remove and soak parts. Detach the basket and other removable parts, and soak them with warm water and dish soap for about 10 minutes. This helps loosen stubborn residue.
- Scrub gently. Use a non-abrasive sponge or a soft brush to clean without scratching the surface.
- Wipe the interior and exterior. Clean the inside walls and heating element with a damp cloth.
- Dry thoroughly. Make sure every part is dry before reassembling to prevent rust or electrical issues.
If you’re short on time, you can usually throw most parts in the dishwasher—just double-check the manufacturer’s instructions first! Making cleaning a habit will prevent those frustrating moments when your air fryer underperforms for no apparent reason.
For further tips to master air fryer care and technique, feel free to check out this article on common air fryer mistakes.
Best Air Fryer Accessories to Elevate Your Recipes
Using an air fryer takes the hassle out of cooking, but pairing it with the right accessories can transform your cooking experience altogether. Whether you’re aiming for easier cleanups or those perfectly cooked chicken recipes, the right tools make all the difference. Let’s dive into some game-changing add-ons every air fryer owner should have.
Silicone Liners and Cooking Racks: Simplify Cleanup and Cooking
Nobody likes scrubbing stubborn grease out of an air fryer basket after a meal. This is where silicone liners become a lifesaver. These flexible, reusable liners catch drips and crumbs, dramatically reducing your cleaning time. You can simply rinse them under running water or toss them in the dishwasher. Plus, they’re eco-friendly compared to disposable parchment paper.
Another option is using liners. I will do this on a Saturday for the samoosas and then only wash the air fryer on a Sunday after I’ve done the chips.
But what about optimising your air fryer for multitasking? Cooking racks are the secret weapon for cooking multiple layers of food at once. If you’re preparing chicken drumsticks and roasted veggies, a rack lets you cook both simultaneously without sacrificing even cooking. This is especially convenient for busy evenings when you want everything ready in one go.
Pairing both tools? You’ve got an air fryer setup that feels almost too easy. For more kitchen hacks and tips, this article about common air fryer tools could be a great resource.
Here’s a great deal on air fryer accessories from Loot.
Meat Thermometers: Perfect Results Every Time
Wondering why some of your chicken recipes feel like playing roulette? That’s because cooking visually isn’t foolproof. A good meat thermometer takes the guesswork out and ensures your dishes are cooked safely and to perfection.
For air fryer chicken recipes, you’ll want the internal temperature to hit 75°C (165°F) for juicy, tender results. Insert the thermometer’s probe into the thickest portion of the meat and make adjustments to your cooking time as needed. This tool is particularly indispensable if you’re preparing larger cuts like chicken breasts or thighs, where it’s easy to overdo it on the outer layers while the inside stays undercooked.
Investing in a precision thermometer not only amps up the flavour but also gives peace of mind that your meals are safe for the whole family to enjoy.
Here’s a meat thermometer on Loot, and a more fancy one here, and a basic one here.
Conclusion
Mastering air fryer chicken recipes doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right approach and a little confidence, you can create consistently tasty, healthy meals that will impress everyone at the table. I am the first one to say I’m not such a great cook and I stick to routine but basic things can work.
Take this as your cue to experiment with flavours and techniques. Whether you’re trying out new marinades or perfecting cooking times, the possibilities are endless.
More recipes
Ready to level up your kitchen routine even more? Check out these inspiring resources from South African food bloggers like Cupcakes and Couscous for fresh recipe ideas to keep your meals exciting. Get her cookbook here.
Another great recipe: Lamb Hot Pot from Louisa Holt
Now it’s your turn—grab your air fryer, pick a recipe, and get cooking! What will you try first?
Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by Bash. It contains some AI.
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