Name: Air Fryer Chicken and Potatoes
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 medium potatoes (diced into 1-inch pieces); 2 breasts chicken (diced into 1-inch pieces); 4 cloves garlic (crushed – divided); 2 teaspoons smoked paprika (divided); ½ teaspoon red chili flakes (divided – optional); 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (optional); 1 teaspoon salt (divided); ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)

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There’s something incredibly satisfying about whipping up a hearty meal like Air Fryer Chicken and Potatoes on a busy weeknight. I remember a particular evening when I was absolutely exhausted from a long day, but the thought of a delicious, home-cooked meal kept me motivated. The air fryer was my trusty companion, allowing me to create a mouthwatering dish with minimal effort. As the aroma of crispy potatoes and tender chicken filled my kitchen, I felt a wave of comfort wash over me. It was one of those times where I knew I had struck gold with a simple yet satisfying recipe that would leave my family asking for seconds.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
12 g

Tools Used:
Air Fryer

Why This Air Fryer Chicken and Potatoes Is So Good

What makes Air Fryer Chicken and Potatoes stand out in my kitchen? Let me share a few reasons.

Quick and Convenient

This recipe epitomizes quick cooking without compromising on flavor. The air fryer preheats rapidly, and in no time, you have a wholesome dinner ready for the family. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Flavorful Ingredients

Chicken and potatoes are a classic pairing, but what elevates this dish is the seasoning. A harmonious blend of smoked paprika, garlic, and a hint of red chili flakes adds depth and a burst of flavor to the meal, making it irresistible.

Healthy Cooking Method

Using an air fryer means less oil compared to traditional frying methods, which makes this a healthier option without sacrificing the crispy texture we love. You can indulge without the guilt!

Versatile Meal

Whether you’re serving it for dinner, a casual family gathering, or even meal-prepping for the week ahead, Air Fryer Chicken and Potatoes fits the bill perfectly. You can even customize it with your favorite herbs and spices for endless variations.

Kid-Friendly

Kids are often picky eaters, but this dish usually wins them over. The crispy potatoes and juicy chicken are easy to love, making it a great choice for family dinners.

Easy Cleanup

With fewer pots and pans to deal with, cleanup becomes a breeze. Just pop the air fryer basket in the dishwasher, and you’re done!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Air Fryer Chicken and Potatoes

Using fresh, quality ingredients makes all the difference in this dish. The combination of chicken and potatoes serves as a hearty base, while the seasoning plays a vital role in bringing the flavors to life. Each component complements the other perfectly, creating a satisfying and balanced meal.

2 medium potatoes, diced into 1-inch pieces – These provide the necessary starch and a delightful crispy texture when air-fried.
2 chicken breasts, diced into 1-inch pieces – They make the meal filling and are a great source of lean protein.
4 cloves garlic, crushed – divided – Garlic brings aromatic depth to the dish; using it both in the potatoes and chicken maximizes flavor.
2 teaspoons smoked paprika, divided – This adds a subtle smokiness that elevates the overall taste.
½ teaspoon red chili flakes, divided – optional – For those who enjoy a little heat, this is a great optional addition.
1 teaspoon fresh thyme, optional – A lovely herb that adds freshness to the dish.
1 teaspoon salt, divided – Essential for seasoning and enhancing all flavors.
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper – A staple seasoning that adds a slight kick.
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided – This helps in achieving that crispy exterior on the potatoes and chicken.

The Method for Air Fryer Chicken and Potatoes

Cooking with an air fryer is straightforward and fun. With just a few steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy. Let’s dive into the preparation!

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial for ensuring that your chicken and potatoes cook evenly and achieve that beautiful crisp.
In a large mixing bowl, toss the diced potatoes with 1 clove of garlic, half of the smoked paprika, red chili flakes, salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Make sure each piece is well coated to absorb all the flavorful goodness.
Place the coated potatoes in the air fryer basket. Air fry them for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure they become golden brown and crispy on all sides.
While the potatoes are cooking, use the same mixing bowl to toss the diced chicken with the remaining cloves of garlic, smoked paprika, red chili flakes, salt, black pepper, olive oil, and thyme. Ensure everything is coated nicely, as this will add tons of flavor to your chicken.
After the initial 10 minutes, remove the basket from the air fryer. Use a spatula to move the potatoes to one side, creating space in the basket. Add the seasoned chicken to the other side and return the basket to the air fryer.
Cook for another 10 minutes, flipping both the potatoes and chicken halfway through. Keep an eye on them to achieve that desired crispiness.
Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer. It should register at least 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s cooked thoroughly. If it hasn’t reached the safe temperature, continue cooking until it does.
Once cooked, carefully remove the basket from the air fryer. Garnish your dish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch and serve warm.
Enjoy your delicious Air Fryer Chicken and Potatoes with your favorite side salad or dipping sauce!

Things Worth Knowing

Air Fryer Basket: Ensure it’s not overcrowded; this allows for even cooking and crispiness.
Seasoning: Always taste your seasonings before cooking to adjust according to personal preference.
Cooking Times: Different air fryer models may vary; check your manual for best practices.
Resting Time: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juices.

Change It Up

There are countless ways to put a personal twist on Air Fryer Chicken and Potatoes. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the air fryer for best results.
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked components separately. Just ensure they cool completely before placing them in freezer-safe bags.
Pairing: Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad to balance the meal.
Herb Variations: Experiment with herbs like rosemary or oregano instead of thyme for a different flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: Add a tablespoon of your favorite hot sauce to the chicken mixture for an extra kick.

Serving Ideas for Air Fryer Chicken and Potatoes

When it comes time to serve your Air Fryer Chicken and Potatoes, the possibilities are endless. Here are some thoughtful ideas:

Family Dinner: This dish is perfect for family dinners and can easily satisfy everyone’s cravings.
Lunch Box: Pack it up for an easy lunch option for work or school. It holds up well and tastes great cold or reheated.
Casual Gatherings: Serve it at casual gatherings or potlucks; it’s a crowd-pleaser!
Seasonal Pairings: In the summer, serve with a light cucumber salad, and in the winter, a warm bowl of soup on the side would complement it beautifully.
Garnishes: Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor.
Leftover Makeover: Use leftovers to create a hearty chicken salad or wrap for a quick meal the next day.

FAQ

Yes, but it’s important to thaw the chicken before cooking to ensure it cooks evenly. You can leave it in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Cooking from frozen may lead to uneven cooking, and the texture might not be as pleasant.

Air Fryer Chicken and Potatoes is a very versatile dish. You can serve it with a fresh garden salad, steamed vegetables, or even a side of quinoa for a healthy option. If you want to keep it simple, a nice dipping sauce like ranch or garlic aioli works beautifully.

Store any leftover Air Fryer Chicken and Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for about three days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crispness. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, but the texture may not be as crisp.

Absolutely! You can add or replace the potatoes with other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just keep in mind that different vegetables may require different cooking times. Adjust accordingly to ensure everything is cooked perfectly.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Chicken and Potatoes offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will surely impress anyone at your dinner table. It’s quick, easy, and packed with taste, making it a fantastic addition to your weeknight meals. I encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy the satisfying results. Your family will be asking for this dish again and again!