Grilling chicken in an air fryer has become a popular cooking method in recent years. Not only does it provide a quick and convenient way to cook chicken, but it also produces delicious and flavorful results. If you’re wondering how long to grill chicken in an air fryer, you’ve come to the right place. In this quick guide, we will walk you through the steps of grilling chicken in an air fryer and provide you with the necessary cooking times for different cuts of chicken.
Air Fryer Grilled Chicken: A Healthier Alternative
Grilling chicken in an air fryer is a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. The air fryer uses hot air circulation to cook the chicken, eliminating the need for excessive oil and reducing the overall fat content. The result is a crispy and golden-brown exterior with tender and juicy meat on the inside. Whether you’re looking to reduce your calorie intake or simply want a healthier version of your favorite grilled chicken, the air fryer is a fantastic option.
Preparing the Chicken
Before grilling the chicken in an air fryer, it’s essential to properly prepare the chicken to ensure a delicious outcome. Start by selecting your preferred cut of chicken, whether it’s chicken breasts, thighs, wings, or drumsticks. If you prefer boneless chicken, make sure to remove any bones from the meat. Next, marinate the chicken with your favorite seasonings and let it sit for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat. This step is crucial for adding extra taste to your grilled chicken.
Cooking Time Guidelines
The cooking time for grilled chicken in an air fryer depends on the cut and size of the chicken pieces. Here are some general guidelines for cooking various types of chicken in an air fryer:
1. Chicken Breasts: For boneless, skinless chicken breasts, preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and grill for 12-15 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway through the cooking process to ensure even browning.
2. Chicken Thighs: Boneless chicken thighs should be cooked at the same temperature as chicken breasts, but for a slightly longer time of 15-18 minutes. Bone-in chicken thighs may require an additional 3-5 minutes of cooking time.
3. Chicken Wings: Chicken wings are a favorite for many, and they can also be easily grilled in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and cook the wings for 20-25 minutes, flipping them every 5 minutes for even cooking.
4. Chicken Drumsticks: Drumsticks require a slightly higher temperature to ensure they are thoroughly cooked. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (205°C) and grill the drumsticks for 22-25 minutes, turning them over halfway through the cooking process.
Additional Tips for Grilling Chicken in an Air Fryer
To achieve the best results when grilling chicken in an air fryer, here are a few additional tips to keep in mind:
1. Preheat the air fryer: Just like with a traditional grill, it’s essential to preheat your air fryer before cooking the chicken. This helps ensure even cooking and prevents the chicken from sticking to the basket.
2. Avoid overcrowding: To achieve the desired crispy exterior, make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket with too many chicken pieces. Leaving enough space between each piece allows the hot air to circulate properly.
3. Use a meat thermometer: To ensure your chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Delicious Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Recipes
Now that you know how long to grill chicken in an air fryer let’s explore a few tasty recipes to try at home. These recipes are simple and guarantee a mouthwatering outcome:
1. Lemon Herb Chicken Breasts: Marinate boneless, skinless chicken breasts with lemon juice, garlic, and a mix of fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme. Grill in the air fryer for 12-15 minutes, and you’ll have flavorful and juicy chicken breasts.
2. Honey Barbecue Wings: Toss chicken wings in a mixture of honey, barbecue sauce, and a dash of cayenne pepper for some heat. Grill in the air fryer at 380°F (193°C) for 20-25 minutes, and you’ll have sticky and delicious honey barbecue wings.
3. Spicy Drumsticks: Marinate chicken drumsticks in a spicy marinade made with paprika, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Grill in the air fryer at 400°F (205°C) for 22-25 minutes, and you’ll have fiery and flavorful drumsticks.
Conclusion
Grilling chicken in an air fryer is a quick and healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. With the appropriate cooking times and a few simple tips, you can achieve flavorful and tender grilled chicken in no time. Remember to experiment with different seasonings and marinades to find your favorite flavor combinations. So, fire up your air fryer and enjoy a delicious grilled chicken meal anytime!