Air Fryer Cajun Chicken
Air Fryer Cajun Chicken is a delicious and easy recipe that is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. Air frying has become increasingly popular in recent years, as it provides a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods.
Having a simple air fryer chicken recipe that takes minimal effort and less time in the kitchen is a yes for me. This is best served with cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
Ingredients
Here is a quick look at what you will need. You can find the full measurements in the recipe card below.
- Chicken leg quarters
- Cajun seasoning
- garlic powder
- onion powder
- kosher salt (to taste)
- ground black pepper (to taste)
- olive oil
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
This is a quick overview of the steps. See the Recipe card below for the rest.
Pat dry chicken leg quarters on all sides. In a small bowl, combine spices – Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Spritz some olive oil cooking spray on all sides of the chicken. Add the cajun spice blend to the marinated chicken leg quarters for 2 hours or overnight.
Place chicken leg quarters, skin side down, on the Air Fryer tray. In a pre-heated Air Fryer Oven, insert the Air Fryer tray into the cooking chamber. Set at 380F (193C) for 30 minutes. At the last 8-10 minutes, flip chicken leg quarters, skin side up.
Keep watch at the last 6-8 minutes. Continue to cook the chicken until golden brown and when the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F. Remove the chicken from the Air Fryer. Transfer to a serving platter. Serve immediately.
Variations and Substitutions
- Chicken: You can use any type of chicken pieces for this recipe, such as boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Adjust cooking time accordingly depending on the thickness of the meat.
- Butter: Instead of using olive oil spray, you can brush the chicken with melted butter or a combination of oil and melted butter to add more flavor.
- Spices: Feel free to use your favorite seasoning blend or spices to season the chicken. Some popular options include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Marinade: For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken in your favorite marinade for a few hours before air frying.
Equipment
- Measuring spoons
- Silicone Mitts
- Kitchen tongs
- Baking tray
- Air Fryer tray
- Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer Oven
Storage
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 2-3 days
Freezing: You can store in a freezer bag or airtight container for up to 3 months
Reheat : To reheat, simply place the chicken in a preheated air fryer for a few minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can also reheat in a microwave or oven for a crispy texture.
Pro Tips
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket, as this can prevent even cooking and result in soggy chicken. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Instead of using oil, you can also line the air fryer basket with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Don’t forget to preheat your air fryer before adding the chicken to ensure even cooking.
- For a healthier option, use lean cuts of chicken such as chicken breasts or tenders.
- You can also use this method for other types of poultry, such as turkey or Cornish game hen.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute and keep it moist.
- Cooking time may vary depending on the size and type of your air fryer. It’s important to keep an eye on the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking to prevent it from burning.
FAQ
Yes, you can also make this recipe in the oven if you don’t have an air fryer. Simply preheat your oven to 375°F and place the seasoned chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
If your air fried chicken is turning out tough, it could be due to overcooking. Make sure to follow the recommended cooking times and temperatures in the recipe. It’s also important to use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Yes, you can use frozen chicken for this recipe. Just be sure to thaw it completely before seasoning and cooking. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the thickness of the chicken.
Removing the skin from chicken before air frying can make it healthier, as it reduces the fat content. However, leaving the skin on can add flavor and help keep the chicken moist. It ultimately comes down to personal preference but if you like crispy skin then I would leave it on.
Recipe Card
Air Fryer Cajun Chicken
Equipment
- Measuring spoons
- Silicone Mitts
- Kitchen tongs
- Baking Tray
- Air Fryer tray
- Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer Oven
Ingredients
- 3 chicken leg quarters
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3/4 teaspoon onion powder
- kosher salt to taste
- ground black pepper to taste
- olive oil
Instructions
- Pat dry chicken leg quarters on all sides. In a small bowl, combine spices – Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Spritz some olive oil spray on all sides of the chicken. Add the seasoning mixture on to the and maranate chicken leg quarters for 2 hours or overnight.
- Place chicken leg quarters, skin side down, on the Air Fryer tray. In a pre-heated Air Fryer Oven, insert the Air Fryer tray into the cooking chamber. Set at 380F (193C) for 30 minutes. At the last 8 minutes, flip chicken leg quarters, skin side up.
- Keep watch at the last 5 minutes. Continue to cook chicken until golden brown and when the internal temperature of the thickest part reaches 165°F. Remove the chicken from the Air Fryer. Transfer to a serving platter. Serve immediately.
Disclaimer:
Any nutritional data I provide is an approximation and actual dietary information can vary based on ingredients and proportion sizes.
