Air-Fryer Chicken Fries: Quick, Crispy, And Delicious!

Chicken fries are a tasty snack and a great alternative to chicken fingers or nuggets. They can be made in an air fryer in just 10 minutes and are perfect for dipping. You can use store-bought chicken fries, such as Tyson Anytizers, or make your own from scratch using chicken breast, flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs. Simply place the chicken fries in the air fryer in a single layer, and cook for 8-12 minutes at around 400°F, shaking the basket halfway through. Serve with your favourite dipping sauce and enjoy!

Chicken fries recipe from scratch

Ingredients:

• Chicken breast
• Flour
• Salt
• Pepper
• Eggs
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Sunflower oil

Instructions:

• Slice the chicken breast into similar-sized chunks to ensure even cooking.
• Prepare three bowls: one with flour, salt, and pepper mixed together; one with beaten eggs; and one with panko breadcrumbs.
• Dip each chicken strip first in the flour mixture, then in the beaten egg, and finally in the panko breadcrumbs.
• Place the coated chicken strips in the air fryer basket, drizzle with sunflower oil, and cook at 180°C for 20 minutes, turning them over halfway through.
• Your chicken fries are ready when they are golden on each side. Serve hot with dips and a salad.

Tips:

• For extra crispiness, spray the chicken with a bit of oil.
• Always cook in a single layer to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• Do not thaw the chicken before air frying; use them frozen.
• If you are making a large batch, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer.

How to reheat chicken fries

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Fries

Take your chicken fries out of the refrigerator and let them sit for 10 to 20 minutes to reach room temperature. This will help the protein in the chicken relax and prevent the meat from becoming tough when reheated.

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 380°F. This will ensure that the chicken fries are heated evenly and efficiently.

Step 3: Place the Chicken Fries in the Air Fryer

Arrange the chicken fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don't touch each other. This allows hot air to circulate around each fry, ensuring even cooking and crispiness.

Step 4: Reheat the Chicken Fries

Reheat the chicken fries for about 3 minutes in the air fryer. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don't overcook. You may need to add a minute or two if you prefer crispier chicken fries.

Step 5: Serve

Once the chicken fries are heated through and crispy, remove them from the air fryer and serve immediately. Enjoy your crispy, hot chicken fries as a snack or a meal!

Tips:

• It is best to reheat only the amount of chicken fries you plan to eat. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• To maintain the crispiness of the chicken fries, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary.
• You can spray the chicken fries with a light coating of cooking oil before reheating for extra crispiness and to prevent sticking.

Best dipping sauces to serve with chicken fries

When it comes to serving chicken fries, whether made in the air fryer or otherwise, the right dipping sauce can elevate the flavors and provide a delightful contrast or complement to the crispy, juicy chicken. Here are some mouthwatering options for dipping sauces that will take your chicken fries to the next level:

Classic Ketchup

You can't go wrong with the timeless combination of ketchup and fried chicken. The tanginess and slight sweetness of ketchup provide a perfect counterpoint to the savory, crispy chicken fries. Opt for a high-quality ketchup with a balanced flavor profile to ensure it enhances, rather than overwhelms, the taste of the chicken.

Spicy Mayo

For those who enjoy a kick, spicy mayo is an excellent choice. The creamy texture of the mayonnaise cools down the palate, while a hit of chili adds excitement. You can adjust the spice level to your preference by adding chili flakes, fresh chili peppers, or a dash of hot sauce to your mayo.

Honey Mustard

Honey mustard is a classic dipping sauce that pairs exceptionally well with chicken fries. The combination of sweet honey and tangy mustard creates a balanced, flavorful sauce. Look for a honey mustard with a smooth texture and a robust flavor that will cling to the chicken fries for a burst of flavor in every bite.

Ranch Dressing

Cool and creamy ranch dressing is always a crowd-pleaser. Its fresh herb and spice flavors make it an ideal partner for chicken fries. The tanginess of the buttermilk in ranch dressing also helps to cut through the richness of the fried chicken, creating a delightful contrast of flavors.

Barbecue Sauce

Barbecue sauce is a versatile option that can add a burst of flavor to your chicken fries. Opt for a thick, smoky barbecue sauce with a hint of sweetness to create a delicious, finger-licking good experience. Whether you prefer a traditional tomato-based sauce or something with a twist, like a bourbon or honey barbecue sauce, it's a surefire way to enhance your chicken fries.

Blue Cheese Dip

For a more indulgent option, a creamy blue cheese dip is a perfect match for chicken fries. The strong, tangy flavor of blue cheese adds a sophisticated twist. Combine crumbled blue cheese with sour cream, mayonnaise, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a dip that's both decadent and refreshing.

Experiment with these sauces, and don't be afraid to put out a variety of options for your guests or family to enjoy. Offering a selection of dipping sauces allows everyone to customize their chicken fry experience and discover their favorite flavor combinations.

Chicken fries cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for chicken fries in an air fryer will vary depending on the brand of the air fryer and the brand of chicken fries. However, there are some general guidelines that can be followed for optimal results.

Firstly, it is important to note that chicken fries should be cooked from frozen. Do not thaw or defrost the chicken fries before placing them in the air fryer. This is because frozen chicken fries will result in a crispier texture, while thawed fries may become mushy.

When cooking chicken fries in an air fryer, the temperature should be set between 380 degrees Fahrenheit and 400 degrees Fahrenheit. The exact temperature may depend on the model of the air fryer and personal preference for crispiness. For example, one source recommends a temperature of 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-12 minutes, while another suggests 380 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes.

The cooking time for chicken fries in an air fryer will vary depending on the desired level of crispiness. For crispier chicken fries, it is recommended to cook them for closer to 12 minutes. For a lighter crunch, 8 to 10 minutes may be sufficient. It is important to note that cooking times may also vary depending on the model of the air fryer and the thickness of the chicken fries. For example, thicker chicken fries may require a longer cooking time to ensure they are cooked through.

To ensure even cooking and crispiness, it is recommended to place the chicken fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket, with a little space between each fry. This allows the hot air to circulate effectively and prevents overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking. Additionally, shaking or flipping the chicken fries halfway through the cooking process can help ensure even browning and crispiness on all sides.

Some air fryers may also require preheating before adding the chicken fries. This can vary depending on the model of the air fryer, so it is important to refer to the specific instructions for your air fryer.

For optimal results, it is recommended to monitor the chicken fries closely during the cooking process, especially if you are using a particular brand or model for the first time. Checking on the chicken fries 2 to 3 minutes before the suggested cooking time will help prevent overcooking or burning.

Additionally, for a crispier texture, some recipes suggest spraying the chicken fries with a light coating of oil, such as avocado oil or olive oil, before placing them in the air fryer. However, this step is optional, as the chicken fries typically contain oil already, and spraying the basket with oil is not recommended as it can make the fries greasy.

In summary, the cooking time and temperature for chicken fries in an air fryer depend on various factors, including the model of the air fryer, the brand of chicken fries, and personal preferences for crispiness. By following the general guidelines provided above and adjusting as needed, you can ensure perfectly cooked and crispy chicken fries every time.

Chicken fries cooking tips

Preparation

Before you begin, decide whether you want to make your own chicken fries from scratch or use a frozen bag of chicken fries. If you're short on time, the frozen option is a great alternative!

If you're making your own, you'll need chicken breast, flour, eggs, panko breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and sunflower oil. Slice the chicken into thin, even strips, then prepare three bowls: one with flour, salt, and pepper, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs. Dip each chicken strip into the flour, then the egg, then the breadcrumbs.

Cooking

Preheat your air fryer to between 380-400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the chicken fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this will prevent the fries from crisping up. Depending on the brand of chicken fries and the model of your air fryer, cook for 8-12 minutes, shaking or flipping the basket halfway through.

Serving

Chicken fries are a versatile dish that can be served as a snack, appetizer, or main course. For a fun dipping experience, serve with your favorite sauces on the side. If you're looking for something more substantial, try adding them to a wrap, salad, or nachos. Don't forget to let the chicken fries cool down for about 10 minutes if you're serving them to children, as they will be very hot!

Frequently asked questions