As a fan of both simple cooking and flavorful snacks, I’ve been on a mission to make my own jerky. The air fryer makes this process so much easier and quicker, and the results are absolutely delicious! Whether you’re craving a protein-packed snack or looking for something to take on your next adventure, Air Fryer Jerky is a game-changer. The best part? You can control the flavors to suit your taste—whether you like it spicy, sweet, or savory, the possibilities are endless!
This recipe is not only easy to follow but also great for meal prep. I love having a batch of homemade jerky on hand for those moments when I need something satisfying but healthy. Plus, you can customize the marinade to make it as bold or subtle as you want. I’ll walk you through the process so you can enjoy this tasty treat anytime, without the fuss of traditional jerky methods. Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Beef or Chicken: The base of any great jerky is the protein itself. For this recipe, you can use either beef or chicken. Beef is the traditional choice, providing a rich, savory flavor, while chicken is a lighter option that’s just as delicious. Slice your meat thinly to ensure it cooks evenly and becomes tender after air frying.
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce adds that deep umami flavor that makes jerky so irresistible. It’s also the key ingredient in your marinade that will help tenderize the meat, allowing it to absorb all the other flavors. You can opt for low-sodium soy sauce to keep things healthier.
Worcestershire Sauce: Worcestershire sauce brings a bit of tang and a complex flavor that pairs perfectly with soy sauce. It adds an extra layer of savory richness to the marinade, which will coat the meat beautifully, helping it develop that distinct jerky taste.
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder is essential for adding depth to the flavor profile of your jerky. It gives the meat that warm, aromatic kick that enhances all the other ingredients. It’s perfect for those who love garlic but want a more subtle hint rather than fresh cloves.
Onion Powder: Onion powder works hand in hand with garlic powder, complementing its flavor and giving your jerky an extra layer of savory goodness. Together, these two pantry staples provide a balanced, rounded taste.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar is a must for a touch of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory elements. It helps create a caramelized coating on the meat, giving your jerky a nice, slightly sweet finish.
Cayenne Pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit of heat and spice, making your jerky flavorful and exciting. Adjust the amount depending on how spicy you like it—just a pinch can make a big difference!
Black Pepper: Black pepper adds sharpness and a bit of bite to the jerky, balancing out the sweetness and heat. It’s a great all-around seasoning that works in just about any jerky recipe.
Smoked Paprika: Smoked paprika gives your jerky a nice smokey flavor without the need for a smoker. This is what will make your air fryer jerky taste like it’s been slow-cooked over wood, adding a subtle depth of flavor.
Liquid Smoke (optional): If you want to enhance the smokiness of your jerky, a dash of liquid smoke will do the trick. This ingredient isn’t absolutely necessary but can take your jerky to the next level if you love that smoky flavor.
Ingredients List
- 1 lb of beef or chicken (sliced thinly)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional)
How to Make Air Fryer Jerky
Step 1: Prepare the Meat
Start by slicing your beef or chicken thinly. You want the slices to be around 1/8 to 1/4-inch thick to ensure they cook evenly. The thinner the slices, the quicker they will dry out in the air fryer. If you’re using beef, opt for cuts like flank steak or sirloin for a leaner result. Once sliced, set the meat aside.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and smoked paprika. If you’re using liquid smoke, add it now. Stir the mixture until the sugar is dissolved and all the ingredients are well combined.
Step 3: Marinate the Meat
Add the sliced meat to the marinade, making sure each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the meat to absorb all the flavors.
Step 4: Air Fry the Jerky
Preheat your air fryer to 180°F (82°C). Arrange the marinated meat in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure the meat cooks evenly. Air fry for 4 to 6 hours, flipping the meat halfway through for optimal drying. The jerky is done when it’s firm and no longer pliable, but still tender.
Step 5: Let It Cool
Once your jerky is ready, remove it from the air fryer and let it cool. The jerky will continue to firm up as it cools. Store in an airtight container or vacuum-seal for long-lasting freshness.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Slice Meat Thinly: Thin slices are key to making jerky in an air fryer. The thinner the slices, the quicker they’ll dry out, and the more tender the jerky will be.
- Adjust Spices to Taste: Feel free to tweak the seasoning to suit your preferences. If you like it spicier, add more cayenne pepper. For a sweeter flavor, increase the brown sugar.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Make sure there’s enough space for the air to circulate around the meat. Overcrowding will lead to uneven cooking and soggy jerky.
- Use Low Sodium Soy Sauce: For a healthier version, opt for low-sodium soy sauce. It will reduce the salt content without sacrificing flavor.
- Check for Doneness: Jerky can be tricky to gauge, so check it frequently after 3 hours. It should be firm but not too hard.
FAQs
How long does air fryer jerky last?
Homemade jerky will last up to 2 weeks if stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, vacuum-seal the jerky to keep it fresh for up to 3 months.
Can I use different meats for jerky?
Yes! You can use any lean meat, such as turkey, venison, or pork. Just make sure to slice it thinly for the best texture.
Can I make jerky without liquid smoke?
Absolutely! Liquid smoke is optional, but it does give the jerky a nice smokey flavor. If you don’t have it, the jerky will still taste great without it.
How do I store air fryer jerky?
Store your jerky in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, keep it in the fridge or freeze it.
This recipe is perfect for those who want a flavorful, homemade snack without the hassle of traditional jerky-making methods. With just a few ingredients and your trusty air fryer, you’ll be enjoying this protein-packed treat in no time!