Jan 21 2025

How To Get Crispy Air Fried Chicken

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Today, I’m sharing how to get crispy air-fried chicken skin every time! These two simple steps will give you crispy, crunchy chicken while keeping the meat juicy.

Today, I'm sharing with you how to get crispy air-fried chicken skin every time! These two simple steps will give you crispy, crunchy chicken while keeping the meat super juicy.

Air-frying is a great way to make delicious “fried” foods without the added calories from a deep fryer. Plus, it doesn’t smell up the house, either.

These 2 simple principles can help you achieve crispy “fried” chicken skin and super juicy meat! So grab your air fryer, and let’s fry up some chicken today!

Crispy Air Fried Chicken

Step one will be a big ask, but trust me, it’ll be worth it. You need at least 30 minutes, but if you can plan and let it go overnight, you’ll be in crispy chicken heaven! I mean, seriously, look at that crispy skin bubble below!

Just 3 ingredients are needed to create crispy skin BBQ seasoned super juicy chicken thighs. Grab your air fryer & let's make deliciousness!

Step 1 | Dry Brine The Chicken

Pat your chicken dry. Coat it with seasoning only. Place it on a cooling rack on a rimmed baking sheet. Cover the tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, uncovered. If you have the time, you can let it stay this way overnight in the fridge.

Step 2 | Air Fry The Chicken

Prepare your air fryer and remove the chicken from the fridge. Give them a mist of olive oil and place them in the air fryer—SKIN SIDE DOWN!

Check Out This Air Fried BBQ Chicken Thighs Recipe

Also in this blog post, I’m sharing all the tips on using bone-in and boneless chicken plus super juicy air-fried chicken breasts.

Air Fry Chicken Skin-Side Down For Crispy Skin

I’ve tried it both ways, starting with the skin side up and down, and I found that starting with the skin side down produces better results.

Flipping the thighs gives the skin a “second” air fry, which is the secret to making it super crispy!
Starting with the skin side down, you render the fat and moisten the meat.
It makes it easier to flip.

The Best Countertop Air Fryer

I’ve tested quite a few air fryers, and the ONLY one I’d recommend is the Instant Pot Vortex Plus XL 8QT.

Dual baskets: I love it because it allows me to cook an entire meal simultaneously.
Synchronized Cooking: Both baskets can cook with the same settings
Synchronized Finish: I use this often! I can cook both baskets using different settings, and it’ll finish cooking both baskets at the same time!
Cleaning: It’s so easy to clean!