🍗 Crispy Air Fryer Chicken
Ingredients
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4 bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks (or boneless if preferred)
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1 tbsp olive oil (or spray oil)
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½ tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp paprika
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½ tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp onion powder
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½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
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½ cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch — optional)
Instructions
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Preheat the air fryer
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Set to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for 3–5 minutes.
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Prepare the chicken
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Pat the chicken dry with paper towels (this is key for crispiness).
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Brush or spray lightly with olive oil.
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Mix all seasonings in a small bowl, then rub evenly over the chicken.
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(Optional: press chicken into panko breadcrumbs for an ultra-crispy coating.)
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Air fry
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Arrange chicken pieces in a single layer, skin-side down (if using skin-on).
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Cook for 10 minutes, flip, then cook another 10–15 minutes, depending on thickness.
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Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
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Rest and serve
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Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
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Serve with dipping sauce, salad, or fries.
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🔥 Tips for Extra Crispiness
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Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket — airflow = crunch.
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Spritz lightly with oil halfway through if the surface looks dry.
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For boneless chicken tenders, reduce cooking time to about 12 minutes total.
Would you like me to give you a buttermilk-style breaded version (like fried chicken) or a simple no-breading version that’s keto-friendly?
