Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Recipe

If you’re craving something with a spicy kick and crispy perfection, this Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken is an absolute game changer. Imagine tender chunks of chicken, breaded to golden crunchiness and then coated in that unmistakable tangy buffalo sauce we all adore. Using the air fryer keeps things delightfully healthier without sacrificing any flavor or texture. This recipe is straightforward enough for a quick weeknight dinner but tasty and impressive enough to share with friends at your next gathering. You’ll find yourself coming back to this Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken time and time again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple pantry staples that come together effortlessly to create an irresistible dish. Each one plays a crucial role, from the crispy texture of the panko to the spicy punch of the buffalo sauce, making sure every bite is full of flavor and satisfying crunch.

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1½-inch pieces: The perfect size for even cooking and easy dipping.
• ½ cup all-purpose flour: Helps the breading stick and adds structure.
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Gives the coating an extra crispy texture.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the chicken and breading.
• 2 large eggs, beaten: Acts like a glue to hold the breading on perfectly.
• 2 cups panko breading: This is the secret to that light, airy crunch everyone loves.
• 1 cup buffalo sauce: Brings the spicy, tangy buffalo flavor that makes this dish pop.

How to Make Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F, which ensures your chicken will cook evenly and turn crispy. Don’t forget to spray the basket with nonstick spray to keep things from sticking, making cleanup easier and keeping the coating intact.

Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station

Organize three bowls for an easy assembly line: one with the flour, cornstarch, and salt mixture; another with the beaten eggs; and a third with the panko breading. This setup speeds up the dredging process and ensures each piece of chicken is perfectly coated.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Take each piece of chicken and first dunk it into the flour mixture to create a base layer. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, which will help the panko stick like a dream. Finally, cover the chicken pieces generously in panko, giving them that amazing crunch once air fried.

Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection

Place the coated chicken in a single, even layer inside the air fryer basket. Make sure not to overcrowd it—this helps maintain crispiness. Cook the chicken for about 8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches a safe 165°F.

Step 5: Toss in Buffalo Sauce

Once cooked, transfer the chicken into a large bowl and pour the buffalo sauce over. Gently toss to make sure every piece is coated in that zesty, spicy sauce that makes this dish irresistible.

Step 6: Optional Extra Crispiness

If you like your Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken even crispier, pop the coated pieces back in the air fryer for an additional 3 to 4 minutes. This step is perfect if you want an intense crunch to balance the saucy exterior.

How to Serve Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can take your Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken to the next level. A sprinkle of chopped green onions adds a burst of color and mild onion flavor. A handful of freshly chopped parsley or cilantro will brighten up the dish and complement the spiciness beautifully.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs incredibly well with classic sides like cool ranch or blue cheese dressing, which help mellow out the spicy buffalo sauce. Crispy celery and carrot sticks are traditional and offer a refreshing crunch that perfectly contrasts the chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not build a buffalo chicken wrap or toss the Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken over a bed of crisp salad greens? You could also serve it with warm soft rolls and slaw for a delicious sandwich. For a party, stick toothpicks into the pieces and serve with dipping sauces for easy finger food that everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the sauce separate until serving can help maintain the crispiness of the breading if you plan to reheat it later.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken pieces before tossing them in buffalo sauce. Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. When frozen, they can last up to 2 months, ready for an easy meal whenever you need it.

Reheating

To bring leftover Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken back to life, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 3 to 5 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again. This method is far better than the microwave because it keeps the breading satisfyingly crunchy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work great and stay juicy during cooking. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they reach 165°F and are cooked through.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour and panko with gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs. The cornstarch and seasoning remain the same, giving you that crispy texture without gluten.

How spicy is the Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken?

The level of spice depends on the buffalo sauce you use. Most store-bought sauces have a moderate heat, but you can adjust it by mixing in more hot sauce for extra kick or adding a bit of honey to tone it down.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely! Just make sure to cook the chicken in batches so the pieces aren’t overcrowded in the air fryer basket, allowing them to get crispy and cook evenly.

What dipping sauces go best with this dish?

Ranch and blue cheese dressings are classics that complement the spicy buffalo flavor perfectly. You can also try a cooling avocado dip or a simple garlic mayo for a different twist.

Final Thoughts

There is something undeniably satisfying about homemade Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken. It’s crispy, spicy, and irresistibly tasty, yet light enough to enjoy any night of the week. I hope this recipe inspires you to bring that incredible buffalo flavor to your table with a fraction of the fuss. Go ahead, try it out, and get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones!

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