Grilled chicken is a tasty dish, but firing up the grill can be a hassle. Luckily, you can make juicy and tender grilled chicken in an air fryer in just 15 to 20 minutes. This article will teach you how to make delicious grilled chicken in your air fryer, as well as how to reheat and store leftovers. You'll also discover other air fryer chicken recipes to try and learn why an air fryer is a great appliance to have in your kitchen.

Characteristics of grilling chicken in an air fryer

Chicken breast vs chicken thigh

Yes, you can grill chicken in an air fryer. Here is a comparison between chicken breasts and chicken thighs in an air fryer.

Chicken Breasts vs Chicken Thighs

Both chicken breasts and chicken thighs can be cooked in an air fryer, but there are some differences to consider when choosing between the two.

Cooking Time and Temperature

Chicken breasts and chicken thighs will have different cooking times and temperatures depending on their size and whether they are boneless or bone-in.

For boneless, skinless chicken breasts, it is recommended to cook them in the air fryer at 390 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes on each side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

For boneless, skinless chicken thighs, the cooking time is usually around 12 minutes on the first side and 6-8 minutes on the second side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Bone-in chicken thighs with skin will take longer to cook, with some recipes recommending 15 minutes on the first side and 12 minutes on the second side in the air fryer.

Taste and Texture

Chicken breasts are considered the healthiest option between the two as they have fewer calories and fat. However, chicken thighs win when it comes to flavour and juiciness. The extra bit of fat on the thigh creates a more intense flavour and helps keep the meat tender and moist.

Chicken breasts have a higher chance of becoming dry and flavourless if overcooked, whereas chicken thighs remain juicy and tender even when cooked for longer.

Seasoning

Both chicken breasts and thighs can be seasoned in various ways to enhance their flavour. Common seasonings for chicken breasts include olive oil, chili powder, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

For chicken thighs, seasonings such as paprika, Italian seasoning, brown sugar, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano are often used.

Versatility

Chicken breasts and thighs can be used in a variety of dishes. Chicken breasts are great on rice, salads, sandwiches, wraps, and omelets. Chicken thighs can be served with rice, veggies, roasted butternut squash, shredded Brussels sprouts, or roasted green beans.

Tips for Air Frying

When air frying chicken, it is important to preheat the air fryer and ensure that the chicken is not overcrowded in the basket to allow for even cooking. It is also crucial to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it has reached 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Additionally, using a small amount of oil or non-stick spray can help the spices adhere to the chicken and create a crispy exterior.

Olive oil

When grilling chicken in an air fryer, you can use olive oil to coat the chicken and add seasonings. The olive oil will help to create a yummy exterior for your chicken and ensure it stays moist and tender. It is best to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for even cooking.

There are a few things to keep in mind when using olive oil in an air fryer. Firstly, not all olive oils have the same smoke point. Extra virgin olive oil has a smoke point of around 350-430°F (177-210°C), while regular olive oil has a smoke point of 390-470°F (199-243°C). The ideal temperature for frying chicken is between 325-350°F, so it is important to choose an olive oil with a suitable smoke point.

Additionally, while olive oil is a healthier option, it is still a high-fat, high-calorie food, so it should be used in moderation. A little goes a long way, and you only need enough to seal in the moisture and prevent the chicken from sticking to the air fryer basket.

When preparing the chicken, you can start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This step is optional but helps the chicken cook more evenly. Next, rub both sides of the chicken with olive oil and add your choice of seasonings or spices. You can then place the chicken in the preheated air fryer and cook for around 10 minutes on each side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Using olive oil in an air fryer is a great way to add flavor and moisture to your grilled chicken while also reaping the health benefits of this versatile oil.

Seasoning

A variety of seasonings can be used when grilling chicken in an air fryer. Some common options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne powder, Italian seasoning, and chilli powder. These seasonings can be mixed and matched to create different flavour profiles, such as a sharp, savoury note or a delicate, slightly sweet onion flavour. It is also possible to experiment with different blends to customise the recipe to one's liking. For example, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or ground black pepper can give the chicken some heat, while a squeeze of lemon juice can add a zesty twist.

When seasoning chicken for the air fryer, it is important to ensure that the chicken is evenly coated with the seasoning. This can be done by using hands or tongs to mix the seasoning and oil thoroughly, or by placing the chicken and seasoning in a large bowl and tossing to coat.

Additionally, it is recommended to pre-mix a larger batch of the seasoning blend and store it in a lidded container. This makes it easier to quickly season chicken for future meals.

Temperature and timing

Temperature:

Firstly, preheat your air fryer. The ideal temperature for cooking chicken in an air fryer seems to be around the 360-degree Fahrenheit mark. Some recipes suggest heating to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, while others go as high as 390 degrees Fahrenheit. It is recommended to not exceed 400 degrees Fahrenheit, as this is the temperature at which you would typically bake chicken in a conventional oven.

Timing:

The cooking time will depend on the type of chicken you are cooking and your desired level of doneness. For example, boneless, skinless chicken breasts will take less time to cook than bone-in chicken thighs. On average, you can expect to cook chicken in your air fryer for around 15-20 minutes. However, it is important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the size and model of your air fryer, as well as the size and thickness of your chicken.

For boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cook for about 10 minutes on each side, for a total of 20 minutes. Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer; it is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

For bone-in chicken thighs, cook for about 15 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and crispy. Again, ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

If you are cooking frozen chicken, adjust the cooking time accordingly. Preheat your air fryer to 360 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

It is important to note that cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on your chicken to prevent overcooking. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked to the correct temperature.

Additionally, avoid overcrowding your air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation, which will give you the best results. If you are cooking multiple pieces of chicken, it may be necessary to cook them in batches.

Storing and reheating

Storing grilled chicken in an air fryer is simple, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure it stays moist and doesn't dry out. Here are some tips for storing and reheating your grilled chicken:

Storing:

• Let the grilled chicken cool down completely before storing.
• Store the grilled chicken in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
• Label the container with the contents and date of storage.
• Refrigerate the grilled chicken within 2 hours of cooking.
• Grilled chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Reheating:

• Preheat the air fryer to 350-360°F (175-182°C).
• If your grilled chicken is in the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to remove some of the chill. This helps it heat more evenly.
• Brush the grilled chicken with a little bit of oil or use a cooking spray to help crisp it up.
• Place the grilled chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure there is space between each piece for proper airflow.
• Reheat for 5-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• For extra crispiness, increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last minute of cooking.
• It is best to avoid reheating grilled chicken multiple times, as this can dry it out and increase the risk of food contamination.

By following these tips, you can enjoy delicious and moist grilled chicken that tastes just like it did when it was first cooked!

Frequently asked questions