Go Back
+ servings
Close-up of perfectly cooked air fryer chicken recipe slices, seasoned and juicy.

Air Fryer Chicken

Discover why this air fryer chicken recipe is a favorite for busy home cooks. It's quick, delicious, and perfect for make-ahead meals.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Marinating Time 24 minutes
Total Time 24 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

For the Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt Morton table salt recommended
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
The Chicken
  • 2 teaspoons avocado oil
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts adjust seasoning if using more chicken

Equipment

  • Air fryer

Method
 

  1. Cut the chicken breasts into thin, flat pieces. Aim for pieces that are not bite-sized but resemble thin chicken cutlets. For example, if you have two chicken breasts, cut each into 3-4 thin pieces. Pat the chicken breasts dry if they are moist.
  2. In a bowl, toss the paprika, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, brown sugar, and cornstarch together until well mixed. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl, drizzle with avocado oil, and toss thoroughly to coat. You can proceed directly to air frying or let it rest briefly.
  3. Preheat your air fryer. Arrange the seasoned chicken in a single layer on the air fryer basket or grate, ensuring there is space for air circulation. Air fry at 415 degrees F (213 degrees C) for 10 minutes. If your chicken pieces are larger, increase the cooking time to around 13 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
  4. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a moment. Slice and enjoy. It should be crispy on the outside, flavorful, and juicy.

Notes

For best results when marinating, add the cornstarch just before air frying. If using coarse kosher salt, use 1 teaspoon for 1 pound of chicken. For a quick seasoning alternative, use 1 tablespoon of McCormick Rotisserie Chicken Seasoning blend per pound of chicken, mixed with cornstarch and brown sugar. A popular dipping sauce can be made by mixing 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons gochujang sauce, 1 clove grated garlic, a shot of soy sauce, and a dash of rice vinegar, seasoned with salt and pepper.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!