Air Fryer Chicken And Corn: A Quick, Tasty Combo?

Air fryers are a convenient way to cook chicken and corn, either together or separately. When cooked in an air fryer, chicken breasts are given a crispy exterior and a juicy interior without any extra effort. Similarly, corn cooked in an air fryer is tender and flavourful, with a crisp texture that is difficult to achieve through other cooking methods.

Air fryer corn on the cob preparation

Air fryer corn on the cob is a quick, easy, and tasty way to prepare corn. It is also a versatile dish that can be served as a side or used in other recipes.

Choosing the Corn

When choosing corn to cook in the air fryer, fresh is best. Look for corn with bright green husks that wrap tightly around the cob. The corn inside should be firm with full, plump kernels. If the corn has shrivelled kernels or brown spots, or if the husks are loose and dry, it is not fresh.

Preparing the Corn

Before you start, shuck the husks from the corn and rinse off the silk. Pat the ears dry, then trim the corn as needed so that it fits in the air fryer. If you are cooking a large batch, you may need to cut the corn in half to ensure it fits in a single layer.

Seasoning the Corn

Rub the corn all over with olive oil. This will help the corn to "'air fry'" and keep it from sticking. It will also help any seasonings you add to stick. Season the corn with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add other seasonings of your choice to customise the flavour.

Cooking the Corn

Place the corn in the basket of the air fryer, ensuring there is room between the cobs for the air to circulate. Set the air fryer to between 370 and 400 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for 6 to 15 minutes, or until tender and slightly charred around the edges. Check the corn halfway through to ensure it doesn't burn.

Serving the Corn

Air fryer corn on the cob can be served as a side dish or used in recipes such as corn salad, corn chowder, or grilled Mexican street corn. You can also shave the corn off the cob for use in salads, pastas, and other side dishes.

Chicken coating and seasoning

Coating Techniques:

• Moisten the chicken: Start by moistening the chicken pieces with an egg wash or cold water. This step helps the coating adhere better to the chicken.
• Coat with seasoned mix: Dip the moistened chicken into a seasoned coating mix. You can use a store-bought coating mix specifically designed for air fryers, such as the Louisiana Fish Fry Air Fry Chicken Coating Mix, or make your own.
• Flour dip: For a classic fried chicken texture, dip the chicken in seasoned all-purpose flour. Avoid double-dipping, as it may result in excess flour that doesn't cook properly in the air fryer.
• Buttermilk soak: For an extra tender and juicy result, soak the chicken in buttermilk before coating it with flour. This technique is especially recommended if you're aiming for a classic fried chicken taste.
• Bread the chicken: After dipping the chicken in flour or a coating mix, you can also bread it by firmly pressing the chicken into the coating mix to ensure an even and thorough coating.

Seasoning Options:

• Basic seasoning: A standard mix of salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper is a great starting point. You can adjust the amounts to your taste preferences.
• Taco seasoning: To the basic mix, add cumin powder and dried oregano to create a taco-inspired flavour profile.
• Spicy kick: If you enjoy spice, be generous with the smoked paprika or include some chili powder. You can also swap paprika for chili powder and add sugar for a sweet and spicy flavour profile.
• Indian spices: Try a tandoori seasoning mix with ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, and yoghurt for an Indian-inspired flavour.
• Brazilian spice mix: Get creative with a blend of oregano, paprika, cumin, black pepper, coriander, thyme, basil, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and nutmeg.
• Store-bought options: Explore the spice aisle at your grocery store or try pre-made rub mixes from stores like Trader Joe's. Some options include chili-lime, coffee rub, or salt-free blends.
• Nooch (brewer's yeast): This unique ingredient can add a savoury boost to your air-fried chicken.
• Chimichurri: Marinate your chicken in chimichurri sauce, a tangy and herb-filled Argentinian sauce, for a flavourful and juicy result.

Cooking time and temperature

When cooking chicken and corn together in an air fryer, the cooking time and temperature will depend on the type and amount of chicken and corn being cooked, as well as the specific air fryer being used. It's important to note that air fryers can vary in terms of cooking time and temperature settings, so adjustments may be necessary.

For chicken breasts, a cooking time of 12 to 16 minutes at 360 degrees Fahrenheit is recommended. It's important to ensure that the chicken is cooked through and piping hot before serving. Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing can help retain moisture and result in a juicier interior.

When cooking chicken strips, the temperature setting may vary depending on the specific recipe and air fryer. A cooking time of around 10 to 15 minutes is recommended, with the chicken strips and corn cobs being turned halfway through the cooking process. Again, it's crucial to ensure that the chicken is completely cooked through before serving.

For corn on the cob, the cooking time can range from 6 to 15 minutes at temperatures between 370 and 400 degrees Fahrenheit. The corn should be cooked until it is tender and slightly charred around the edges. Fresh or frozen corn can be used, and it's important to ensure that the corn is not stacked or overlapped in the air fryer to allow for even cooking.

It's worth noting that the cooking time and temperature may need to be adjusted based on the specific air fryer model and the quantity of chicken and corn being cooked. Checking the food halfway through the cooking process can help prevent overcooking and ensure that the desired level of doneness is achieved.

Chicken and corn serving suggestions

Chicken and corn are a delicious combination and can be served with a variety of side dishes to elevate your meal. Here are some suggestions:

Potato Dishes

Potato is a classic side dish, and there are several ways to prepare them to complement your chicken and corn. You could try creamy mashed potatoes with garlic or chives, adding a comforting touch to your meal. For a more indulgent option, consider a cheesy potato casserole made with condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and cornflakes. If you're looking for something crispier, sweet potato fries baked at 425°F are a nutritious alternative to traditional potato fries. Pair them with dipping sauces like aioli or ketchup for added flavour.

Green Beans

Green beans provide a nutritious and vibrant side dish, perfectly balancing the flavours of chicken and corn. You can sauté them with almonds for a delightful crunch and a burst of flavour. Adding a hint of lemon zest also brightens the dish, making it fresh and tasty.

Salads

Salads are a great way to add a refreshing element to your meal. A spinach salad with bacon and eggs is a tasty and fresh option that won't leave you feeling overloaded. Another option is a Mexican coleslaw, which is crunchy, creamy, and tangy, containing red pepper, coleslaw mix, and jalapeno. It's a perfect side dish as it's not too heavy, and the combination of flavours and textures will impress your guests.

Breads

Bread is always a welcome addition to a meal, and garlic bread brings a rich, buttery goodness that's hard to resist. If you're looking for something lighter, try a cucumber salad with simple pickling techniques. It will provide a vibrant crunch and tangy flavour, making it an excellent choice for warm-weather dining.

Rice

Rice pilaf is a versatile and flavourful option, enhancing your meal with its aromatic spices and textured grains. It's a great way to add some variety to your plate and ensure your guests are satisfied.

These are just a few ideas to get you started, but feel free to experiment with different seasonings, vegetables, and dips to create a memorable dining experience.

Chicken and corn recipe variations

Chicken and corn are two versatile ingredients that can be cooked together in an air fryer with many different variations. Here are some ideas for chicken and corn recipe variations:

Air Fryer Popcorn Chicken with Corn on the Cob:

For a quick and easy meal, prepare some popcorn chicken bites in your air fryer. Season the chicken with herbs and spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper, for a flavorful kick. Cook the chicken for around 30 minutes until crispy and juicy. For the corn, shuck and rub with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Place the corn in the air fryer alongside the chicken, or cook it separately for 12-15 minutes at 370°F until tender.

Air Fryer Fried Chicken with Corn Salad:

Prepare a delicious batch of air fryer fried chicken by coating chicken pieces in a mixture of flour, cornstarch, and seasonings. Dip the chicken in buttermilk and eggs, then coat with the flour mixture again. Spray with oil and air fry at 370°F for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Serve this crispy, juicy chicken with a refreshing corn salad. Boil or grill corn kernels and mix with chopped onions, peppers, and a vinaigrette dressing.

Air Fryer Chicken and Potatoes with Corn:

This variation involves cooking chicken breasts and potatoes in your air fryer. Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and paprika for a robust flavor. Place the chicken and potatoes in the air fryer and cook for 12-16 minutes until done. For the corn, rub with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Cook the corn separately in the air fryer at 400°F for 6-8 minutes until tender and charred.

Air Fryer Chicken Strips with Corn on the Cob:

Chicken strips cook faster than bone-in pieces, so they're perfect for a quick meal. Cut chicken breasts into strips and coat them with a flour and egg mixture. You can also use breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture. Air fry the chicken strips for 8-10 minutes at 350°F until golden. For the corn, follow the same instructions as the previous variations, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

With these ideas and a bit of creativity, you can cook delicious chicken and corn meals in your air fryer, customizing the recipes to your taste preferences.

Frequently asked questions