If you’re a fan of crispy, flavorful chicken without all the frying, then Air Fryer Shake and Bake Chicken is the recipe you’ve been waiting for! It’s a quick and easy way to make crispy chicken that’s perfectly seasoned every time. The air fryer gives the chicken a golden, crunchy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to deep-fried chicken, but still packs all the flavor you crave.
This recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it also requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll find this recipe simple to follow and absolutely delicious. Let’s get started and bring that crispy, flavorful chicken straight to your dinner table!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken Pieces: The base of the dish. For this recipe, you can use chicken breasts, thighs, or drumsticks, depending on your preference. Bone-in, skin-on pieces work best for getting that crispy exterior.
Shake and Bake Coating: This pre-made seasoning mix is the key to achieving a delicious crispy crust. It combines breading and seasoning in one convenient packet, giving your chicken all the flavor without any extra hassle.
Olive Oil or Cooking Spray: To help the coating crisp up in the air fryer, a light spray of olive oil or any preferred cooking spray is all you need. It’s just enough to give the chicken that golden-brown, crunchy exterior.
Garlic Powder: For an extra layer of savory goodness, garlic powder adds a subtle yet rich flavor that enhances the chicken without overpowering it.
Paprika: This adds a little smokiness and color to the chicken, giving it that classic golden look and a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the Shake and Bake mix.
Ingredients list
- 4 pieces of chicken (breasts, thighs, or drumsticks)
- 1 packet of Shake and Bake seasoning mix
- Olive oil or cooking spray
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
How to Make Air Fryer Shake and Bake Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by prepping your chicken. Pat the pieces dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps the seasoning stick better and promotes crispiness. You can trim any excess fat if desired, but the skin should remain on for the best texture.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
In a large resealable bag, add the Shake and Bake seasoning mix, garlic powder, and paprika. Seal the bag and shake it to combine everything. Then, place the chicken pieces in the bag and seal it again. Shake vigorously until the chicken is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is important to ensure the chicken cooks evenly and crisps up beautifully.
Step 4: Air Fry the Chicken
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the coated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 20-25 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken pieces, flipping halfway through the cooking time for even crisping.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
The chicken is ready when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If the chicken is not fully cooked, return it to the air fryer for an additional 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- For extra crispy chicken, make sure to coat the chicken well in the Shake and Bake mix and give it a light spray of oil before cooking.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add some cayenne pepper or chili powder to the Shake and Bake mix.
- You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, but the bone-in, skin-on pieces will give you the crispiest texture.
- Make sure to not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Leave space between the chicken pieces to allow the air to circulate and cook the chicken evenly.
FAQs
Can I use a different seasoning instead of Shake and Bake?
Yes! While Shake and Bake is convenient and flavorful, you can use any breading or seasoning mix you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the chicken.
How do I store leftover Air Fryer Shake and Bake Chicken?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, use the air fryer to keep the chicken crispy.
Can I cook frozen chicken in the air fryer?
Yes, you can! Just increase the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken pieces. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
What should I serve with Air Fryer Shake and Bake Chicken?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. You could also serve it with some dipping sauces like ranch or honey mustard.
Can I use a different type of oil?
Absolutely! While olive oil works great, you can use any cooking oil that you prefer, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or avocado oil. Just make sure to use a light spray to avoid too much oil and keep the chicken crispy.
Enjoy this quick, easy, and delicious Air Fryer Shake and Bake Chicken for your next dinner! It’s a meal that’s sure to satisfy the whole family.