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Close-up of sliced restaurant-style air fryer chicken, showing crispy seasoned coating and juicy white meat.

Restaurant-Style Air Fryer Chicken

Learn how to make crispy, flavorful chicken in your air fryer. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners and recreates restaurant-quality meals at home.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

The Spices
  • 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 for fine coating
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch
The Chicken
  • 2 teaspoons avocado oil
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts If using 1.5 pounds, increase spices by 1.5x

Equipment

  • Air fryer

Method
 

  1. Cut each chicken breast into thin, flat pieces. Aim for pieces that are not bite-sized but resemble thin chicken cutlets. For example, a one-pound package with two breasts can yield 3-4 thin pieces per breast. Pat the chicken breasts dry if they are moist.
  2. In a bowl, toss the spices together until well mixed. Sprinkle the spice mixture over the chicken pieces. Add the avocado oil and toss to thoroughly coat the chicken. You can use your hands or tongs.
  3. Preheat your air fryer. Arrange the coated chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket, 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, cook for up to 13 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
  4. Remove the chicken from the air fryer. Let it rest for a moment before slicing. Enjoy the crispy, flavorful, and juicy chicken.

Notes

This chicken is delicious served immediately. Consider pairing it with a dipping sauce.

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