Have chicken and an air fryer? Try these 6 failproof recipes that make juicy, crispy meals
Monday 14 September 2026 15:30 - Mirella Mendonça
Start with the basics: plain chicken, golden brown and juicy
For those looking for a quick meal, the secret is to season it well, avoid overcrowding the basket, and follow the cooking time. The result is chicken that’s golden brown on the outside and tender on the inside: perfect with salads, rice, vegetables, or potatoes.
Crispy alternatives to traditional deep-frying
The Air Fryer is perfect for anyone who loves crispy chicken but is looking for a lighter alternative to deep-frying. Breaded chicken, seasoned chicken pieces, and recipes with a crispy coating are easier to make, create less mess, and have that irresistible golden-brown crust.
Ideas for kids, snacks, and casual meals
When you want to please the whole family, go for foods that are easy to eat and serve. Chicken nuggets and chicken burgers are great for snacks, packed lunches, and casual dinners; plus, they’re ready in no time without having to watch the frying pan.
Chicken with vegetables, Tex-Mex style
For a complete, colorful, and quick meal, combine chicken with bell peppers, spices, and tortillas. Fajitas made in the air fryer are a convenient way to add variety to your menu, serve a casual meal, and let everyone build their own plate.
Tips for always cooking chicken perfectly in the air fryer
Don't overfill the basket.
Hot air needs to circulate to brown the chicken evenly.
Use a simple marinade.
Olive oil, lemon, garlic, paprika, herbs, yogurt, or soy sauce help make the meat more flavorful and tender.
Turn the chicken halfway through cooking.
This simple step improves the texture and prevents some parts from remaining less browned.
Adjust the cooking time based on the cut.
Breasts, thighs, drumsticks, strips, and ground chicken do not cook at the same rate. The thicker the piece, the more attention you need to pay to the internal temperature.
Hot air needs to circulate to brown the chicken evenly.
Use a simple marinade.
Olive oil, lemon, garlic, paprika, herbs, yogurt, or soy sauce help make the meat more flavorful and tender.
Turn the chicken halfway through cooking.
This simple step improves the texture and prevents some parts from remaining less browned.
Adjust the cooking time based on the cut.
Breasts, thighs, drumsticks, strips, and ground chicken do not cook at the same rate. The thicker the piece, the more attention you need to pay to the internal temperature.
Mirella MendonçaI am the editorial manager at Petitchef (Portugal and Brazil) and a huge enthusiast of travel and world cuisine, always in search of new flavors and experiences. However, as much as I love exploring the delights of different cultures, my mom's cooking will always be my favorite — with that unique flavor that only she can create.







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