Name: Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 can Avocado or olive oil cooking spray; 3 medium medium skinless and boneless chicken breasts; 5 tablespoons buffalo sauce (plus more, for brushing); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; Celery and carrot sticks (for serving, optional); Blue cheese dressing or dip (for serving, optional)

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Whenever I’m craving something spicy and satisfying, I turn to Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken. There’s just something magical about the combination of crispy chicken and zesty buffalo sauce that makes my taste buds dance. I remember the first time I tried this dish; I had just bought an air fryer and was eager to experiment. The aroma that filled my kitchen was irresistible, and I couldn’t wait to dig in. As I took my first bite, the tender meat coated in that spicy sauce was everything I had hoped for and more!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
280 kcal

Protein:
35 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
14 g

Tools Used:
Air Fryer

The Beauty of This Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken

Healthy Alternative

What I love most about making Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken is how it gives me all the flavor without the guilt. Using an air fryer means significantly less oil is needed, making this dish a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. You still get that satisfying crunch on the outside while keeping the juicy tenderness on the inside.

Quick and Easy

In just under 30 minutes, you can whip up this delicious meal. The chicken cooks quickly in the air fryer, so it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you don’t have much time to spend in the kitchen. All you need is your buffalo sauce and a few simple seasonings, and you’re good to go!

Perfect for Meal Prep

This dish is fantastic for meal prep! I often make a batch of Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken on Sundays to have ready for lunches throughout the week. It tastes just as good cold or reheated, making it a versatile option for any meal.

Customizable to Your Taste

You can easily adjust the heat level by using more or less buffalo sauce or opting for different flavors altogether. Whether you love it extra spicy or prefer a milder flavor, this recipe allows for personalization.

Great for Parties

If you’re hosting a gathering, Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken is a crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for game day or any get-together! Serve it with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing for a classic approach that everyone will love.

Shopping List for Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken

Gathering the right ingredients is crucial for making the perfect Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken. Each element plays a role in creating that bold flavor and crispy texture that you crave. Let’s look at the key players in this recipe.

Avocado or olive oil cooking spray: This helps to create that crispy crust without adding unnecessary calories.
Medium skinless and boneless chicken breasts: The star of the show! They provide a great base for the buffalo sauce.
Buffalo sauce: This is where the magic happens. It’s tangy, spicy, and addictive!
Salt: A little bit of salt enhances all the flavors.
Garlic powder: Adds depth and flavor to the chicken.
Black pepper: A simple seasoning that makes a big difference.
Celery and carrot sticks: Optional, but they provide a great crunch and are perfect for dipping!
Blue cheese dressing or dip: This classic pairing adds creaminess to balance the heat.

How to Make Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken

Making Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken is a breeze! You’ll love how simple the process is. Follow these steps to create a dish that will impress everyone.

Start by preheating your air fryer to 360°F. This is essential for ensuring your chicken cooks evenly and gets that lovely crispiness. It only takes a few minutes, so don’t rush this step!
Next, lightly spray the basket with avocado or olive oil cooking spray. This will prevent the chicken from sticking and help achieve that golden exterior.
Now, it’s time to pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This step is important because moisture can prevent the chicken from getting crispy. Once dry, place them in a bowl.
Pour the buffalo sauce over the chicken and season with salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Toss everything together to coat the chicken evenly. Let it marinate for 5 minutes to allow those flavors to soak in.
After marinating, place the chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer. This ensures they cook evenly. Air fry for 10 minutes.
Once the timer goes off, flip the chicken and cook for an additional 5 minutes. This is key for achieving that perfect doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
When the chicken is done, carefully remove it from the air fryer. If you like, brush with a little extra buffalo sauce for an extra kick.
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring juicy bites!
Finally, serve with celery, carrot sticks, and blue cheese dressing for dipping. Enjoy this spicy, crispy delight!

Things Worth Knowing

Don’t overcrowd the basket: This ensures even cooking and allows for a crispy texture.
Adjust cooking time based on thickness: Thicker pieces may require a few extra minutes to reach the desired internal temperature.
Let it rest: Always let chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy.
Experiment with sauces: Feel free to play around with different sauces to find your perfect flavor!

Change It Up

There are so many ways to enjoy Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken. Here are some tips to help you really make it your own:

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before packing.
Pairing: Consider serving with a side salad or sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce according to your personal heat preference.
Wrap It Up: Shred leftover chicken and use it as a filling for wraps or tacos.

Perfect Matches for Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken

When it comes to serving Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken, the possibilities are endless. Here are some fantastic ideas:

Celery and Carrot Sticks: These veggies are classic accompaniments that help cool down the spiciness.
Blue Cheese Dressing: A must-have for dipping, it adds a creamy contrast to the heat.
Side Salads: A fresh garden salad or coleslaw adds crunch and balance to the meal.
Sweet Potato Fries: Their sweetness pairs beautifully with the heat of the chicken.
Wraps: Use the chicken as a filling for wraps along with fresh veggies and sauces.
Game Day: Perfect for serving at parties, it’s bound to be a hit with your friends and family!

FAQ

The spiciness of Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken largely depends on the type and amount of buffalo sauce you use. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can start with a small amount and gradually increase it to your taste. Alternatively, you might find sauces labeled as ‘mild’ or ‘medium’ instead of the hotter varieties. It’s all about finding that perfect balance that suits your palate!

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts for Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken, but it’s recommended to thaw them first. Cooking frozen chicken can result in uneven cooking, meaning the outside might cook faster than the inside. For best results, thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator before marinating and cooking.

Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Traditional accompaniments like celery and carrot sticks and blue cheese dressing are a must. You can also serve it with a fresh salad, sweet potato fries, or even in a wrap for a delightful meal! The options are endless, so feel free to get creative!

To store leftovers of Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to three days. When reheating, make sure to do so in a way that maintains the crispiness, such as popping it back in the air fryer for a few minutes to warm it up!

Conclusion

Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken is a dish that brings bold flavors and satisfying crunch to your table. With its easy preparation and health-conscious cooking method, it’s the perfect recipe for busy weeknights or fun gatherings. I hope you give this recipe a try—once you do, it’ll surely become a staple in your kitchen.