The Ultimate Air Fryer Chicken Recipes

Mandy in the Making

Video Stats

Host: Mandy in the Making
Published: Jun 20, 2025
Views: 108.6k

Recipe Overview

Prep: 15 min
Cook: 22 min
Difficulty: Intermediate
Serves: 4

Overview

Air frying chicken has become a game changer in my kitchen, and this recipe showcases just how versatile and delicious it can be. Starting with chicken breasts, the technique ensures they remain juicy and flavorful, especially when seasoned with a blend of garlic powder, smoked paprika, and onion powder. The air fryer cooks them evenly, making it a reliable method for meal prep or a quick dinner.

The addition of chicken thighs and legs introduces a different texture and flavor profile, and using mustard as a binder for the spices is a clever twist that enhances the dish. The result is crispy skin and tender meat that’s bursting with flavor. Pairing this with sautéed green beans and a quick brown rice makes for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and healthy.

For those looking to elevate their air fryer game, this recipe is a must-try. It’s not just about cooking chicken; it’s about creating a delicious experience that can easily be adapted with different seasonings or sides. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this air fryer chicken will impress everyone at the table.

Recipe Details

Steps & Tips

1
00:40

Cut thick chicken breasts in half to ensure even cooking.

2
01:10

Use a meat mallet to flatten chicken to uniform thickness.

3
02:04

Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, oregano, onion powder, and smoked paprika.

02:06

Tip: Preheat the air fryer to 380°F for even cooking.

02:10

Tip: Season chicken breasts on both sides for better flavor.

02:19

Tip: Use smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.

4
02:39

Preheat air fryer to 380°F.

5
03:16

Place chicken breasts in air fryer and cook for 12 minutes, flipping halfway.

6
03:26

Check chicken for doneness and return any undercooked pieces to the air fryer.

03:41

Tip: Cook chicken legs at a higher temperature for better tenderness.

04:50

Tip: Chicken breasts can dry out easily; monitor cooking time closely.

05:04

Tip: Try using mustard as a binder for seasonings on chicken.

7
05:21

Season chicken legs with mustard and spice mixture.

06:06

Tip: Combine spices and seasonings well for even flavor distribution.

08:41

Tip: Coat chicken lightly with mustard for flavor and to help spices stick.

8
09:06

Place chicken legs in air fryer and cook for 22 minutes, flipping halfway.

10:00

Tip: Check chicken temperature to ensure it's cooked through.

9
10:15

Check chicken legs for doneness and adjust cooking time if necessary.

12:09

Tip: Use a marinade to enhance flavor and moisture in chicken.

10
12:18

Chop chicken thighs into chunks for quicker cooking.

11
13:22

Combine olive oil, garlic powder, minced ginger, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, hot sauce, salt, and pepper.

15:07

Tip: Trim excess fat from chicken thighs for better texture.

12
15:29

Divide marinade between chicken and vegetables, tossing to coat.

13
18:02

Cook chicken thighs in air fryer for 10 minutes.

14
18:10

Add broccoli and onions to air fryer with chicken for the last 10 minutes.

18:12

Tip: Add vegetables halfway through cooking to prevent burning.

19:12

Tip: Adjust the consistency of sauces with water if needed.

15
20:06

Plate the cooked chicken thighs and vegetables.

16
20:34

Serve with brown rice and optional yum yum sauce.

Ingredients

Serves: 4
Chicken Leg1 lb
Garlic Powder1 tsp
Onion Powder1 tsp
Smoked Paprika1 tsp
Salt1 tsp
Pepper1 tsp
Olive Oil3 tbsp
Rice Vinegar1 tbsp
Mustard2 tbsp
Brown Sugar3 tbsp
Green Beans1 lb
Allergen Alerts

Ingredient: Mustard

    → Substitution: Dijon Mustard

Ingredient: Soy

    → Substitution: Coconut Aminos

Nutrition

Calories
450
kcal per serving
Protein
30
per serving
Carbs
20
per serving

Skill Level

Skill Level Intermediate
Beginner Intermediate Advanced

Frequently asked questions

Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.

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Interesting Tidbits

  • Using mustard as a binder for seasonings on chicken enhances flavor and helps spices adhere.
  • Cooking chicken thighs in the air fryer results in juicy, tender meat that falls off the bone.
  • Adding rice vinegar to the marinade elevates the overall flavor profile of the dish.
  • Air frying chicken is a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods.