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Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Recipe

Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Recipe

5 from 14 reviews

This Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken recipe offers a healthier twist on a classic favorite by using an air fryer to achieve crispy, perfectly cooked chicken pieces tossed in tangy buffalo sauce. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s an ideal snack or main dish for game days or casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Coating

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1½-inch pieces (approximately 2 chicken breasts)
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups panko breading

Sauce

  • 1 cup buffalo sauce

Optional

  • Ranch or blue cheese dressing, for serving
  • Nonstick cooking spray, for air fryer basket

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and spray the basket lightly with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare Coating Stations: Set out three separate bowls: In the first bowl, mix together all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt. In the second bowl, beat the eggs. In the third bowl, place the panko breading.
  3. Coat the Chicken: Dredge each piece of chicken first in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating, then dip into the beaten eggs. Finally, coat thoroughly with panko breading for a crispy texture.
  4. Arrange Chicken in Air Fryer: Lay the breaded chicken pieces in a single, even layer in the air fryer basket. If your air fryer is small, work in batches to avoid overcrowding for crispiness.
  5. Cook the Chicken: Air fry the chicken at 400°F for 8 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
  6. Coat with Buffalo Sauce: Transfer the cooked chicken to a large mixing bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce over the chicken and gently toss until all pieces are well coated in the vibrant sauce.
  7. Optional Crisping: For extra crispy buffalo chicken, place the coated chicken back into the air fryer for an additional 3 to 4 minutes.
  8. Serve: Serve your crispy buffalo chicken hot with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping, perfect for snacking or as a main dish.

Notes

  • Ensure the chicken pieces are cut uniformly for even cooking.
  • Panko breading gives extra crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs.
  • Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to your preferred spice level.
  • Work in batches if your air fryer basket is small to avoid overcrowding.
  • Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check doneness and prevent undercooking.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: Buffalo chicken, Air fryer chicken, Crispy chicken, Buffalo sauce recipe, Healthy buffalo wings