How to Cook Raw Chicken in Air Fryer: Easy, Juicy, and Delicious

How to cook raw chicken in air fryer can transform your cooking routine, offering a quick, mess-free, and healthier alternative to traditional methods. Whether you’re a busy parent or a health-conscious foodie, this technique guarantees flavorful, crispy results every time.

Imagine enjoying perfectly cooked chicken—juicy on the inside and golden brown on the outside—in just minutes. Air fryers have revolutionized home cooking, allowing anyone to achieve professional-quality results with minimal effort. Ready to learn the secret to flawless air-fried chicken? Let’s dive in!

How to Cook Raw Chicken in Air Fryer

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

Proper preparation is crucial for achieving delicious air-fried chicken. Follow these steps for the best results:

Clean and Trim the Chicken

• Rinse the raw chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
• Trim excess fat or unwanted skin to avoid greasiness.

Properly storing chicken before cooking is just as important as knowing how to prepare it. If you’re unsure about the best practices for keeping your chicken fresh and safe, check out our guide on how to store chicken in the refrigerator. This resource will help you avoid spoilage and ensure your chicken remains in optimal condition for cooking.

Seasoning and Marinades

Seasoning is where the magic happens. You can stick to classic spices or get creative:

• Basic seasoning: salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
• Marinades: Combine olive oil, lemon juice, soy sauce, and herbs for added depth.

Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes in the fridge to let the flavors soak in. If you’re in a rush, seasoning immediately before cooking works too.

Step 2: Preheating the Air Fryer

Always preheat the air fryer before cooking. Preheating ensures even cooking and a crispy texture. Most air fryers require 3-5 minutes to preheat, usually at 375°F (190°C). While the fryer preheats, you can arrange your chicken pieces and finalize your seasoning.

Step 3: Cooking the Chicken

Place the prepared chicken in the air fryer basket, ensuring pieces don’t overlap. Cooking times vary depending on the cut:

Pro Tip: Flip the chicken halfway through cooking for even browning. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Tips for Perfect Air-Fried Chicken

Mastering how to cook raw chicken in air fryer comes down to a few simple tricks:

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Basket
   Arrange chicken in a single layer to allow air to circulate. Overcrowding can result in uneven cooking.
2. Use Cooking Spray
   A light spray of oil enhances crispiness, especially for skin-on cuts or breaded chicken.
3. Experiment with Coatings
   Try coating the chicken in panko breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or parmesan cheese for added crunch.
4. Monitor Cooking Progress
   Check the chicken occasionally to avoid overcooking, which can dry it out.

Why Use an Air Fryer for Chicken?

Air frying offers numerous benefits, especially when preparing chicken:

Healthier Cooking

Unlike deep frying, air fryers require minimal oil. You can enjoy crispy chicken with fewer calories and less saturated fat.

Faster Cooking Times

Air fryers preheat and cook faster than traditional ovens, making them ideal for busy households.

Consistent Results

The air fryer’s circulating heat ensures even cooking, so you get perfectly crispy and juicy chicken every time.

Recipe Ideas for Air-Fried Chicken

Need inspiration? Here are a few ideas:

1. Classic Herb-Rubbed Chicken
   Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder. Air fry at 375°F for 15 minutes.
2. Spicy Buffalo Wings
   Toss chicken wings in hot sauce and butter. Cook at 400°F for 12 minutes, flipping halfway.
3. Breaded Chicken Strips
   Dip chicken tenders in egg, then coat with panko breadcrumbs. Air fry at 375°F for 12-14 minutes.

Cleaning Up After Cooking

Once you’ve mastered how to cook raw chicken in air fryer, it’s time to clean up. Here’s how to keep your air fryer in top condition:

• Let the air fryer cool completely.
• Remove the basket and tray, and wash them with warm soapy water.
• Wipe the interior with a damp cloth to remove grease and residue.

Proper maintenance ensures your air fryer lasts longer and performs better.