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Best Air Fryer Crispy Chicken (2024 Update)

If you’re looking for a healthier way to cook up some crispy and delicious chicken, an air fryer might just be your new best friend. They use hot air to cook food, giving you that crispy texture you crave without all the extra oil and fat. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the best air fryer for crispy chicken?

When looking for an air fryer to cook your favorite chicken recipes, there are a few factors to consider. First, make sure the fryer has a large enough basket to hold the amount of chicken you plan on cooking. You also want to look for a fryer with a high temperature range, as this will give you the best chance of achieving that perfect crispy skin. Finally, consider the ease of use and clean up – look for a fryer with easy-to-read controls and dishwasher-safe parts.

So, are you ready to up your crispy chicken game? Imagine being able to cook up your favorite recipes with a fraction of the oil and fat, all while still getting that perfect crunch. If you're intrigued, consider some of these questions: Which air fryer models have the highest ratings for crispiness? What are some of the best recipes for air fryer crispy chicken? Are there any other benefits to cooking with an air fryer beyond just healthier meals? Keep reading to find out.

10 Best Air Fryer Crispy Chicken

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Gluten-free seasoned breading mix for Southern style fried chicken, great for celiac-friendly diets and tasty chicken dishes.
2
The product is ideal for cooking food with minimal oil, baking, roasting and reheating in a compact and noise-free equipment.
3
This product is ideal for coating and seasoning chicken in an air fryer.
4
The product is ideal for cooking a variety of foods with less oil, and comes with many accessories to aid in cooking.
5
Ideal for cooking crispy foods, baking and air frying in a convection oven, with nonstick coating and dishwasher safe.
6
Ideal for oilless cooking, baking, and grilling with a digital display, 3.7 Qt capacity, and included basket pan.
7
The product is ideal for preparing crispy and flavorful fried chicken with a buttermilk taste.
8
This product is ideal for air frying foods such as fries, bacon, and chicken in a large oven.
9
The product is ideal for healthy, oil-free cooking with a 60-minute timer and dishwasher safe parts.
10
The product is ideal for cooking a variety of foods with a healthier, oil-free method using convection technology.
Gluten-free seasoned breading mix for Southern style fried chicken, great for celiac-friendly diets and tasty chicken dishes.
The product is ideal for cooking food with minimal oil, baking, roasting and reheating in a compact and noise-free equipment.
This product is ideal for coating and seasoning chicken in an air fryer.
The product is ideal for cooking a variety of foods with less oil, and comes with many accessories to aid in cooking.
Ideal for cooking crispy foods, baking and air frying in a convection oven, with nonstick coating and dishwasher safe.
Ideal for oilless cooking, baking, and grilling with a digital display, 3.7 Qt capacity, and included basket pan.
The product is ideal for preparing crispy and flavorful fried chicken with a buttermilk taste.
This product is ideal for air frying foods such as fries, bacon, and chicken in a large oven.
The product is ideal for healthy, oil-free cooking with a 60-minute timer and dishwasher safe parts.
The product is ideal for cooking a variety of foods with a healthier, oil-free method using convection technology.

1. Southern Style Chicken Fry – Gluten Free Breading

Glutenfreeee has been dedicated to providing delicious and nutritious gluten-free foods for over 60 years. They understand that taste is just as important as nutrition and put their passion, energy, and innovation into creating handmade gluten-free foods that not only taste as good as their gluten-filled counterparts but even better. Their gluten-free seasoned breading mix is a prime example of their commitment to deliciousness.

One of the most important aspects of gluten-free products is certification. Not all gluten-free products are certified, but Glutenfreeee ensures that all of their products are Certified Gluten-Free (10 ppm gluten or less) by the Gluten Intolerance Group under the supervision of the Gluten-Free Certification Organization. Their Certificate ID is 77581, giving customers peace of mind when it comes to gluten sensitivity.

The gluten-free seasoned breading mix is versatile and can be used in various dishes. With their unique recipe and 13 herbs and spices, it adds a delicious flavor to homemade chicken nuggets, sandwiches, and more. Customers can get creative and use it in their favorite recipes to add a gluten-free twist.

For customers who are health-conscious, the gluten-free seasoned breading mix is air fryer friendly. This allows them to create healthier options for fried chicken that tastes out of this world. The mix is perfect for those who want to enjoy their favorite foods without compromising their health.

One common complaint from people with Celiac’s disease, gluten sensitivity, or those who want to eliminate gluten from their diet is that gluten-free foods don’t taste very good. Glutenfreeee has solved this problem with their gluten-free seasoned breading mix. The taste is real, and customers can enjoy the same flavors they love without worrying about gluten.

2. Mini 4-In-1 Air Fryer With Recipe Guide

Introducing the new COSORI mini air fryer, perfect for individuals who enjoy cooking small portions of food. With a 2.1-Qt capacity, this air fryer is ideal for cooking sides, snacks, wings, and more. It is designed with a compact and portable structure, weighing less than 5 pounds, making it easy to store and carry.

This mini air fryer is equipped with 4 cooking functions, namely Air Fry, Roast, Bake, or Reheat, providing a wide range of options to customize cooking based on personal preferences. The COSORI mini air fryer operates quietly, with noise levels less than 48dB, making it the quietest air fryer compared to other models. This feature allows for a peaceful cooking experience without any disruptive or annoying noise.

With its fast and convenient cooking, the COSORI mini air fryer can cook frozen food to crispy perfection in just a matter of minutes. Preheating is not necessary, and the temperature ranges from 170–400°F, providing flexibility in cooking various types of food. The air fryer also promotes healthy cooking, as it uses up to 97% less oil than traditional frying, allowing for crispy textures minus the added oil.

Included in the package are 30 original recipes created by professional chefs, which can be accessed through the free VeSync app. The accessories that come with the air fryer are nonstick, made without BPA and PFOA, and are dishwasher safe, making cleaning a breeze.

This air fryer is ETL-Listed, with a power rating of 120V / 900W, and a temperature range of 170F°–400°F. It is important to note that this voltage only applies to the US and Canada.

The COSORI mini air fryer is a great gift for food enthusiasts who want a perfectly-sized air fryer for fresh and crispy snacks. With its numerous features and capabilities, this air fryer is sure to provide a convenient and efficient cooking experience.

3. Zatarain's Air Fryer Chicken Seasoned Coating Mix, 5 Oz (Pack Of 12)

Zatarain's Air Fryer Seasoned Coating Mixes are the perfect solution for anyone looking to create a delicious and crispy fried chicken without the excess oil. Specifically formulated for air fryers, these boldly seasoned bread crumbs are perfect for coating any cut of chicken.

With a cook time of just 10-12 minutes for chicken tenders and 20-25 minutes for bone-in chicken, Zatarain's Air Fryer Seasoned Coating Mixes make it quick and easy to whip up a tasty meal. The result is a mouthwatering, crispy fried chicken that is sure to impress even the most discerning palate.

These mixes are made with a special Creole seasoning blend of spices, including paprika, turmeric, garlic and onion, to give your chicken a bold and savory flavor that will have your taste buds dancing. The seasoning is perfectly balanced, ensuring that each bite is bursting with flavor.

In addition to being delicious, Zatarain's Air Fryer Seasoned Coating Mixes are also incredibly convenient. They are easy to use and require no messy cleanup, making them perfect for busy weeknights or quick dinners.

4. 20 Qt Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo

Introducing an easy-to-use kitchen appliance that can revolutionize your cooking experience! The versatile 10-in-1 air fryer toaster oven comes equipped with various preset options, making it effortless to fry, roast, dehydrate, and bake with just the press of a button. With a clear LED digital touchscreen display, selecting the desired cooking mode has never been easier.

Not only is this air fryer an all-in-one appliance, but it also functions as a rotisserie, pizza grill, and oven toaster. With a wide temperature range of 180℉ to 400℉, this large air fryer allows you to cook a variety of dishes with ease. Whether you're air frying, baking, grilling, roasting, toasting, dehydrating, or rotisserie cooking, this appliance can do it all.

One of the most significant benefits of using this air fryer is that it requires less oil to cook, making your meals healthier and more nutritious. The Plus air fryers' super-hot air circulation technology evenly cooks your food, locking in moisture and flavor, resulting in crisp and delicious meals every time. With 1800Watts of power, you can expect your food to come out crispy and scrumptious.

If you're planning to host a food party or cooking for a large family, this air fryer is the perfect choice for you. It features an extra-large capacity of 20 quarts, allowing you to cook a variety of dishes simultaneously.

This air fryer comes with a rich set of accessories, including a fry net basket, rotating basket, drip tray, fetch rack, dehydrating racks, chicken fork, two oven mitts, and a removable drip tray. Cleaning the appliance is a breeze, thanks to the dishwasher-safe parts.

5. Gotham Steel Copper Crisper: Air Fry & Bake Perfectly!

Introducing the innovative Gotham Steel 2 piece Crisper Tray and Basket, the perfect solution for achieving a crispy texture without the added calories. This revolutionary air frying tray is designed to be used in your oven, and features a raised basket that allows for convection heat to reach every angle of the food, ensuring perfect crispiness every time. Whether you're frying French fries, tater tots, or mozzarella sticks, this crisper tray will deliver the perfect results.

Gotham Steel has revolutionized kitchens around the world with their nonstick ceramic copper cookware. With over 30 million satisfied customers, their products are known for their quality and durability. New for 2021, their frying pans have been improved in every area including the nonstick coating, stay-cool handles, exterior finish, and durability. The surface has been infused with diamond-like particles to ensure that the pan doesn't scratch, making it a long-lasting addition to your kitchen.

The Gotham Steel nonstick cooking surface is coated three times and then reinforced with diamonds to deliver the ultimate food release. No seasoning, oil, or butter is needed, making for healthier eating and hassle-free, 1-2-3 cleanup. The Ti-Cerama coating is free of PFOA, PFOS, lead, and cadmium for a healthy and safe experience every time.

Cleaning up after cooking has never been easier with the Gotham Steel Crisper Tray and Basket. Effortless cleanup is made possible by the dishwasher safe design. After all the cooking and prepping is done, simply place the crisper tray and basket in the dishwasher for quick and easy cleanup.

The Gotham Steel Crisper Tray and Basket are compatible with all ovens and can handle up to 400 degrees. The aluminum composition and mesh basket ensure even heat distribution, ensuring that convection heat reaches all areas of the food for great results.

Gotham Steel stands behind the quality of their products, which is why they offer a 10-year limited guarantee. Their cookware is built to last for years of use, making it a worthwhile investment for any kitchen. Join the millions of satisfied customers and enjoy the benefits of Gotham Steel cookware.

6. Oilless Multi Cooker With Digital Display

The NutriChef 3.7 Quart Portable Air Fryer is a healthier alternative to regular fryers. It has been laboratory tested to ensure its capacity to make healthy meals without the need for cooking oil. This commercial dry fryer countertop toaster provides quick and even cooking due to rapid turbo hot air circulation inside the multi-cooker. It can broil, roast, BBQ, grill, and even be used for baking, making it better than conventional frying.

Air frying has never been easier with the NutriChef 3.7 Quart Portable Air Fryer. Simply insert food into the fryer and set the time and temperature. This electric oilless fryer can cook a variety of recipes such as scrumptious crispy skins, potato french fries, chicken, steak, fish, and more.

This black air fryer features an LCD digital display with touch button controls for the timer (up to 30 minutes), temperature (ranging from 176°F-392°F), cooking modes, and a power on/cancel button, making it easy to operate.

Cleaning the NutriChef 3.7 Quart Portable Air Fryer is a breeze. It offers convenient cleaning with its detachable stainless Teflon cooking pan and basket which can be cleaned in a sink or dishwasher. To clean the exterior, simply wipe it with a moist cloth.

7. Zatarain's Southern Buttermilk Chicken Fry Mix, 9 Oz

This high-quality product is perfect for those who are health-conscious and looking for a delicious meal option. With no added MSG, it provides a healthier alternative to other products on the market. Additionally, it contains no artificial flavors and no colors from artificial sources, making it a great choice for anyone looking to avoid these additives in their diet.

One of the best things about this product is its versatility. It can be prepared in three different ways: baking, pan frying, or deep frying. This allows you to choose the cooking method that works best for you and your family. Plus, the product can be paired with a variety of different meats, such as fish, shrimp, or pork chops, for a complete and satisfying meal.

To make meal preparation even easier, consider serving this product with Zatarain’s Yellow Rice Mix. This combination creates a well-rounded and flavorful meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.

8. Yepater Stainless Steel Fryer Basket Set.

The Large Size Air Fryer Basket with 30PCS Parchment Paper is an amazing value for anyone who loves to cook. It is made of high-quality stainless steel that can withstand high temperatures and is designed to fit most ovens. The package includes 30 pieces of non-stick parchment paper that sit perfectly in the pan, preventing food from sticking while air frying chicken or meats.

This two-piece set comes with a crisper tray and air fryer basket, which can be used for making a variety of dishes such as french fries, bacon, chicken wings, and more. The fryer tray doubles as a perfect baking tray, suitable for savory baking, biscuits, bread, cookies, cakes, brownies, and many other baked goods. The non-stick coating eliminates the need for adding butter or fats, so you can eat healthier with less oil. The food lifts off effortlessly without sticking, and you save up to 70% fewer calories from fat vs. cooking in a deep fryer.

The air fryer basket allows heat circulation all around foods for even cooking without the need to flip food. This reduces the chances of food burning and helps cook food to a perfect crispy and brown all around, creating delicious and colorful food that is sure to impress your guests.

Cleaning up after cooking is a breeze with this air fryer basket. The mesh basket is made of quality stainless steel and is easy to clean with soap and water. After cooking, you can place the mesh basket in the dishwasher for quick and easy cleanup. With this air fryer basket, you can enjoy healthy, delicious meals without the hassle of cleaning up. Get yours today and start cooking like a pro!

9. Touchscreen Chefman Air Fryer – Healthy & Compact!

This air fryer from Chefman is a game-changer for anyone looking to enjoy healthier fried foods. With a temperature range of 175-400°F, users can achieve a crispy, fried finish using at least 98% less oil than traditional fryers. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want to maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing taste.

The air fryer's unique design allows it to evenly crisp every inch of your food, making it perfect for air-frying vegetables, pizza, frozen foods, and leftovers. The flat basket holds 40% more food than traditional air fryer baskets, without taking up too much space on your countertop.

With digital temperature control and a 60-minute integrated timer, you can easily achieve perfectly crisp results for a wide variety of foods, with little or even no oil. This air fryer is capable of cooking everything from frozen veggies to mozzarella sticks, chicken, fries, and even reheating yesterday's dessert. Once the timer is up, the fryer will automatically shut off, so you don't have to worry about overcooking your food.

Cleaning up after using the air fryer is a breeze, thanks to the 3.5-Quart non-stick basket that is dishwasher safe. However, when hand washing, it's important to use soft sponges and cloths, as abrasive sponges like Brillo pads can damage the air fryer.

Safety is of utmost importance with this air fryer, which is cETL approved and comes with advanced safety technology for long-lasting durability. Chefman also provides a 1-year assurance, giving users peace of mind when purchasing the product.

For those who need help using the air fryer, a PDF user guide is included with the product. Overall, this air fryer is an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy healthier fried foods without sacrificing taste.

10. 7l Turbo Air Fryer: Multicooker Magic

The 7.4 Quart capacity of this kitchen appliance is perfect for cooking a variety of meals, such as chicken wings, ribs, pork chops, and much more. This Air Fryer Multicooker uses a combination of halogen, infrared heat, and convection cooking to prepare delicious meals for you and your family.

This Combo Kitchen Appliance is multifunctional and offers oil-less air fry, grill, BBQ, bake, roast, toaster, thaw, and defrost options. With its variable high temperature settings, ranging from 250 to 480 degrees Fahrenheit, there's no need for preheating. This energy-efficient appliance requires low wattage compared to conventional halogen ovens or air fryers, making it a power saver in your kitchen.

The Air fryer accessories included in this appliance are an extender ring with an easy-to-clean silicone layer, perfect for cooking up to 7.4 quarts/7 liters of food. The mesh frying basket provides crispy results, while the reversible grill rack adds versatility to your cooking. Tongs are also included, making it easy to handle food while cooking.

Best Air Fryer Crispy Chicken FAQs

Can I make a crispy chicken sandwich in an air fryer?

Yes, you absolutely can make a crispy chicken sandwich in an air fryer! In fact, using an air fryer is a great way to make crispy chicken without having to deep fry it.

To make a crispy chicken sandwich in an air fryer, start by coating your chicken breast in a mixture of flour, seasoned breadcrumbs, and spices. Spray both sides of the chicken with cooking spray, then place it in the air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through cooking, until it's golden brown and crispy.

While the chicken is cooking, you can toast your bun and prepare any toppings you like. Once the chicken is done, assemble your sandwich and enjoy!

Using an air fryer not only makes your chicken sandwich crispy, but it's also a healthier option than deep frying. Plus, it's quick and easy, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

Can I use a marinade on my chicken before air frying to achieve crispy results?

Yes, you can definitely use a marinade on your chicken before air frying to achieve crispy results. In fact, marinating the chicken can add flavor and help to tenderize the meat, making it more juicy and succulent. However, it is important to note that excessive moisture can prevent the chicken from getting crispy, so make sure to pat the chicken dry before air frying. Additionally, some marinades may contain sugar or other ingredients that can burn easily in the air fryer, so it's important to choose a marinade that is suitable for high-heat cooking. You may also want to consider brushing the chicken with a small amount of oil before air frying to enhance the crispiness. Overall, marinating your chicken before air frying can be a great way to add flavor and texture to your dish, as long as you take the necessary precautions to ensure it gets crispy.

How can I ensure my air fryer chicken stays crispy even after it cools down?

To ensure that your air fryer chicken stays crispy even after it cools down, there are a few things you can do. First and foremost, make sure you are using a breadcrumb or coating mixture that is designed to stay crispy. Panko breadcrumbs work particularly well for this purpose. Additionally, make sure you are using a high enough temperature when cooking your chicken, and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, as this can result in uneven cooking and sogginess. It's also important to let your chicken rest for a few minutes before serving, as this can help the coating to set and stay crispy. Finally, if you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and reheat them in the air fryer rather than the microwave, as this will help to maintain their crispiness.

How do I get my air fryer chicken to be crispy and not soggy?

To get crispy air fryer chicken, there are a few things you can do. First, make sure to pat your chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning it. This will help remove any excess moisture that can cause the chicken to become soggy.

Secondly, you can try coating the chicken in a thin layer of cornstarch or flour before air frying. This will help absorb any moisture and create a crispy exterior.

Lastly, make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can cause the chicken to steam and become soggy. Instead, cook the chicken in batches, making sure to leave enough space between each piece for air to circulate.

Also, make sure to follow the recommended cooking time and temperature for your specific air fryer and chicken recipe. With these tips, you should be able to achieve perfectly crispy air fryer chicken every time.

How long should I cook chicken in an air fryer for it to be crispy?

Cooking chicken in an air fryer is an excellent way to achieve crispy and delicious results without using excess oil. The cooking time for chicken in an air fryer depends on the size and cut of the chicken.

For boneless, skinless chicken breasts, you can cook them at 375°F for 12-15 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning on both sides.

If you are cooking chicken wings, you can cook them at 400°F for 20-25 minutes depending on the size of the wings. Flip the wings halfway through the cooking time to ensure they cook evenly on both sides.

Always make sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer before serving. The USDA recommends cooking chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

Overall, cooking chicken in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to achieve crispy and flavorful results.

What are some tips for making the best air fryer crispy chicken?

If you want to make the best air fryer crispy chicken, there are several tips you should follow:

1. Preheat your air fryer: Preheating your air fryer is crucial to achieving that crispy texture. Set the temperature to 400°F and let it heat up for at least 5 minutes.

2. Use cornstarch: Coat your chicken in a mixture of cornstarch and your favorite seasonings before placing it in the air fryer. This will help to absorb excess moisture and create a crispy crust.

3. Spray with oil: Lightly spray your chicken with cooking spray or brush it with oil before cooking. This will help to give it a golden, crispy texture.

4. Don't overcrowd the basket: Make sure to leave enough space between each piece of chicken to allow for proper air circulation. This will ensure that each piece cooks evenly and gets crispy.

5. Flip halfway through: Flip your chicken halfway through the cooking process to ensure that both sides get crispy.

By following these tips, you can make the best air fryer crispy chicken that is juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside.

What is the best air fryer recipe for crispy chicken?

One of the best air fryer recipes for crispy chicken is the classic Southern Fried Chicken. To make this recipe, start by marinating chicken pieces in buttermilk and a blend of spices (such as paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper) for at least 30 minutes. Next, mix flour and more spices in a separate bowl to create the coating for the chicken. Dip each chicken piece in the flour mixture, making sure it is fully coated. Then, place the chicken in the air fryer and cook for about 25-30 minutes at 375°F, flipping halfway through. The result should be perfectly crispy and juicy fried chicken, without the added oil of traditional frying methods. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!

What is the best seasoning for air fryer chicken to make it crispy?

The best seasoning for air fryer chicken to make it crispy depends on your personal taste preferences. However, a classic combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika can give a flavorful and crispy coating to your chicken. You can also add a dash of cumin, chili powder, or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra kick of flavor. Another tip for achieving crispy chicken in the air fryer is to coat the chicken in a thin layer of oil or cooking spray before seasoning it. This helps to create a golden brown and crispy crust on the outside of the chicken. Experiment with different spices and seasonings to find the perfect combination that suits your taste buds.

What is the best temperature to cook chicken in an air fryer for crispy results?

The best temperature to cook chicken in an air fryer for crispy results is 400°F (200°C). This temperature allows the chicken to cook evenly and quickly, while also achieving a crispy texture on the outside. It's important to preheat the air fryer for a few minutes before adding the chicken to ensure that it cooks evenly. It's also important to not overcrowd the air fryer basket, as this can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy results. The cooking time will vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken, but a general guideline is to cook chicken breasts for 15-18 minutes and chicken thighs for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking. Using a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) is also recommended for food safety.

What type of chicken is best for air frying to achieve crispy results?

When it comes to air frying chicken, it is best to choose skin-on chicken pieces such as chicken thighs, drumsticks, or wings. The reason for this is that the skin helps to trap in moisture, which helps to create a crispy texture while the meat remains juicy.

It is also important to pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning and air frying to remove any excess moisture. This will help to prevent the chicken from steaming and ensure a crispy texture.

Additionally, it is recommended to coat the chicken in a thin layer of oil or cooking spray before air frying. This will help to further crisp up the skin and create a golden brown color.

Overall, choosing skin-on chicken pieces and properly preparing them with a dry seasoning and a light coating of oil or cooking spray will help to achieve the best crispy results when air frying chicken.