Best Air Fryers for Chicken of 2026

Rebecca Cantu Avatar
Rebecca Cantu
Last Updated: Jan 8, 2026

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Air fryers are a great tool for cooking delicious and crispy chicken without the excess oil and grease. With the use of hot air circulation, air fryers can cook chicken to perfection in a shorter amount of time than traditional cooking methods. The result is a healthier and more flavorful meal that is perfect for any occasion. Whether it's for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends and family, air fryers are a must-have kitchen appliance for anyone who loves chicken. With a variety of models and sizes available, there is an air fryer that can fit any kitchen and cooking needs.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 AF141 Cover #TOP 1
Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 AF141
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart 6-in-1 DualZone 2-Basket Air Fryer Cover #TOP 2
Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart 6-in-1 DualZone 2-Basket Air Fryer
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Emeril Lagasse 26 QT Air Fryer Oven Cover #TOP 3
Emeril Lagasse 26 QT Air Fryer Oven
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Air Fryers for Chicken

Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 AF141

AF141
Grey
5 QT
Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 AF141 Cover
Ninja | Air Fryer | 4-in-1 Pro Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate | 5QT Capacity fits up to 4lbs of French Fries | 400F Max Temp | Nonstick Basket & Crisper Plate | 120V | Grey | AF141

The Ninja Air Fryer Pro is a versatile kitchen appliance that allows you to Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate with ease. Using Air Crisp Technology, it cooks food with superheated air at 400℉, giving you hot, crispy results while using little to no oil. The 5-QT capacity nonstick basket and crisper plate can accommodate up to 4 lbs of French fries or 5 lbs of chicken wings, perfect for family meals or gatherings. This air fryer provides guilt-free fried foods with up to 75% less fat than traditional frying methods, making it a healthier choice for your favorite crispy dishes.

What We Like
Air Crisp Technology
Large Capacity
4-in-1 Functionality

Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart 6-in-1 DualZone 2-Basket Air Fryer

DZ201
8QT GREY
Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart 6-in-1 DualZone 2-Basket Air Fryer Cover
Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart 6-in-1 DualZone 2-Basket Air Fryer with 2 Independent Frying Baskets, Match Cook & Smart Finish to Roast, Broil, Dehydrate & More for Quick, Easy Meals, Grey

The Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart 6-in-1 DualZone 2-Basket Air Fryer is a great appliance for those looking to get the fried-like texture to food without all the oil. It has two independent baskets, a smart finish feature, and a wide temperature range. It is easy to use and clean, however, it does not cook two different items at the same time efficiently.

What We Like
2 independent baskets
Smart finish feature
Wide temperature range
Easy to use and clean

Emeril Lagasse 26 QT Air Fryer Oven

4-00675-02X-VN
Stainless Steel
Extra Large
Emeril Lagasse 26 QT Air Fryer Oven Cover
Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven Combo, 24 Cooking Functions and Digital Controls, 7 Accessories Included, Stainless Steel Finish, 26QT Capacity

The Emeril Lagasse 26 QT Extra Large Air Fryer, Convection Toaster Oven with French Doors, Stainless Steel is a versatile countertop cooker that combines 10 kitchen appliances into one. With a full menu of 24 custom presets and LED display panel, it's easier than ever to elevate your everyday meals with extraordinary results. The extra hot 500°F convection crisp technology generates 360° air flow at higher temperatures up to 30% faster vs. traditional ovens using less or no oil for the same piping hot, extra-crispy fried texture and flavor of your favorite deep-fried foods and up to 70% fewer calories from fat. The family size extra-large 26-quart capacity fits a whole rotisserie chicken, bakes a 12” pizza, and prepares your main dish and sides on three cooking racks for an entire family dinner. It includes every accessory and tool for delicious family meals, and Emeril Lagasse's authorized collection of air fryer convection ovens brings the expertise of America's most beloved chef to your everyday meals.

What We Like
Even cooking
Versatile cooking modes
Easy to clean
Roomy cooking space
Fast heating

Chefman 4 QT Air Fryer

RJ38-4T-BLACK
Black
Chefman 4 QT Air Fryer Cover
Chefman Air Fryer – 4 QT Compact Airfryer for Quick & Easy Meals in Minutes, Features Hi-Fry Technology for Extra Crisp, Touchscreen Controls with 4 Presets, Nonstick & Dishwasher Safe Basket - Black

The Chefman Air Fryer makes cooking quick and easy, allowing you to customize your meals with its digital touchscreen. You can choose from four preset functions for hassle-free one-touch cooking, ideal for serving 2-4 people. With its Hi-Fry Technology, you can reach temperatures up to 450°F, ensuring that your favorite dishes, like chicken tenders and French fries, come out perfectly crispy. Its compact design saves counter space while still offering a generous 4-quart capacity, making it a practical choice for any kitchen.

What We Like
Fast cooking times
Extra crispy results
Compact design
Easy to clean

Cuisinart Air Fryer + Convection Toaster Oven with Grill

TOA-70NAS
Stainless Steel
Cuisinart Air Fryer + Convection Toaster Oven with Grill Cover
Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven with Grill, 1800W 8-1 Air Fryer Oven with Bake, Convection Bake, Grill, Broil and Warm Options, Large Capacity, 60-Minute Timer, TOA-70NAS, Stainless Steel

The Cuisinart Air Fryer + Convection Toaster Oven with Grill is a versatile 8-in-1 oven that lets you cook anything from toast, 3-pounds of chicken wings, a 12-inch pizza, to a 4-pound chicken. It has a wide temperature range, adjustable temperature dial, 60-minute timer/auto-shutoff, and a toast shade selector for perfect cooking. The nonstick easy-clean interior, oven light, oven rack, baking pan, AirFry basket, and grill make cleaning simple. The new dual-sided grill and griddle plate let you sear steaks and vegetables on one side and griddle breakfast on the other. It is perfect for both family feasts and simple snacks.

What We Like
Versatile cooking options
Compact size for countertops
Easy to clean
Fast cooking times
Good for small meals
#TOP 6

BELLA 4Qt Slim Air Fryer

35100-016A
Oatmilk
4 QT
BELLA 4Qt Slim Air Fryer Cover
bella 4Qt Slim Air Fryer, Fits-anywhere™ Kitchenware, EverGood™ Ceramic Nonstick Coating, Adjustable Temperature, 6 Preset Cooking Options, 60 Min Auto Shutoff w Audible Tone, 3.3lb Capacity, Oatmilk

The BELLA Air Fryer is designed for convenience and efficiency in your kitchen. Its compact size allows you to save space while still preparing large meals, holding up to 3.3 lbs of your favorite foods. The unique ceramic nonstick coating makes cleanup effortless and ensures healthier cooking without harmful chemicals. With digital controls and six preset options, you can easily adjust the temperature and choose from various cooking methods, including air frying and baking. This means you can enjoy crispy, delicious meals with minimal fuss, making dinner a breeze.

What We Like
Easy to clean
Compact design
Fast cooking time
Non-toxic materials
Adorable color options

NutriChef 5.8 Quart Air Fryer

NCAF539TB
Grey
NutriChef 5.8 Quart Air Fryer Cover
Nutrichef 5.8 Quart Air Fryer | 8-1 Preset Cook Modes | Transparent Fry Bowl for Best Cooking Results | Cook Shrimp, Steak, Fries, Wings, Chicken & More | Precise Temperature Control & Time | Grey

The NutriChef Air Fryer offers precise cooking results for a variety of meals, including shrimp, steak, and fries. You can easily adjust the temperature up to 390°F and set the timer for up to 60 minutes, ensuring your food is cooked just the way you like it. With a powerful 1200W heating element, this fryer heats up quickly, making it perfect for large portions thanks to its 5.8 QT capacity. Cleaning is a breeze with its non-stick, dishwasher-safe tray, while safety features like automatic shut-off and overheat protection provide peace of mind during cooking.

What We Like
Glass cooking basket
Stainless steel tray
Easy to clean
Even and quick cooking
Compact countertop size

Chefman Air Fryer 8 Qt

Large Air Fryer
Stainless steel
8 Quarts
Chefman Air Fryer 8 Qt Cover
Chefman Air Fryer 8 Qt | TurboFry® 4-in-1 with 450°F Hi-Fry Option for Crispier Results | Air Fry, Bake, Dehydrate, Frozen | XL Nonstick Dishwasher-Safe Basket | Stainless Steel

The Chefman Large Air Fryer Max XL 8 Qt is a great appliance to have in the kitchen, perfect for cooking meals for the family with four presets, a digital display, and a LED shake reminder. The 8-quart non-stick basket and flat frying tray are both top rack dishwasher safe, making clean-up easier than ever. Healthy cooking starts with air frying, and with presets for easy cooking and a temperature range from 200-400°F, the Chefman Air Fryer is your number one tool for a crispy, fried finish using at least 98% less oil than traditional fryers. The sleek, square shape and nonstick stainless steel finish make it the ideal fryer for families with big appetites and limited counter space.

What We Like
Large capacity
Easy to use
Versatile cooking options
Quick cooking time
Easy cleanup

Ninja Flip Toaster Oven SP151

SP151
Stainless Steel
Ninja Flip Toaster Oven SP151 Cover
Ninja Flip Toaster Oven&Air Fryer, 8-in-1 Functionality, Flip Up&Away Capability for Storage Space, LargeCapacity, Air Fry Basket, SheetPan, Wire Rack&Removable Crumb Tray, Stainless,1800 watts, SP151

The Ninja Flip Toaster Oven is designed to maximize your kitchen space while providing versatile cooking options. You can easily flip it up against your backsplash, freeing up valuable counter space. With its OVENCRISP technology, you’ll enjoy even cooking thanks to the combination of infrared heat and rapid air circulation. This appliance offers 8 cooking functions, allowing you to air fry, roast, broil, bake, and more, making it perfect for a variety of meals. Its large capacity means you can prepare family-sized dishes quickly, feeding up to four people in just 20 minutes.

What We Like
Space-saving design
Even cooking results
Multiple cooking functions
Quick meal preparation
#TOP 10

Ninja Crispi Air Fryer System

FN101GY
Navy
4 QT
Ninja Crispi Air Fryer System Cover
Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 Glass Air Fryer | 450°F | Non-Toxic | 4QT & 6-Cup Glass Containers w/Lids | Microwave, Freezer, Dishwasher Safe | Max Crisp, Air Fry, Bake, Recrisp | Cyberspace Gray, FN101GY

The Ninja Crispi Air Fryer offers a versatile cooking experience with its all-in-one design. You can enjoy the convenience of a powerful air fryer that fits in your hand while also using its 4-quart and 6-cup glass containers for various meal sizes. Cooking a personal meal takes just seven minutes, while the larger container can handle a whole chicken with vegetables. The thermal shock-resistant glass allows you to go from frozen to crispy in no time, making meal prep quick and easy. With four cooking options, you can air fry, bake, and more, ensuring delicious meals every time.

What We Like
Compact storage design
Easy cleanup with glass containers
Quick heating and cooking
Includes useful recipe book
Buying Guide Image

Everything You Need to Know About Buying Air Fryers for Chicken

How to Choose the Perfect Air Fryer for Chicken

If you're a fan of crispy, succulent chicken, then investing in an air fryer is a must. Air fryers use hot air to cook food, producing a crispy exterior without the need for excessive oil. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the right air fryer for chicken? Here are some factors to consider:

Size Matters

The size of your air fryer is an important consideration. If you're cooking for a large family or entertaining guests, a larger air fryer is a better choice. However, if you have limited counter space, a smaller air fryer may be more practical. Keep in mind that larger air fryers may take longer to preheat and cook your chicken, so plan accordingly.

Power and Temperature

The power and temperature of your air fryer also play a crucial role in cooking chicken. Look for an air fryer with a temperature range of 180-400 degrees Fahrenheit, as this will give you the flexibility to cook a variety of chicken dishes. Additionally, a higher wattage air fryer will cook your chicken faster and more evenly.

Cooking Functions

Some air fryers come with additional cooking functions, such as roasting, baking, and grilling. These functions can be useful if you want to prepare a variety of dishes beyond just chicken. However, keep in mind that these functions may increase the price of your air fryer, so only invest in them if you think you'll use them regularly.

Ease of Use and Cleaning

Finally, consider the ease of use and cleaning when choosing an air fryer for chicken. Look for models with simple controls and easy-to-clean baskets. Some air fryers also come with dishwasher-safe parts, which can make cleaning up a breeze.

Brand Recommendations

While we can't recommend specific products, we can suggest some brands that have a reputation for producing high-quality air fryers. Philips, Ninja, and Cosori are all well-known brands that offer a range of air fryers with different features and sizes. However, make sure to do your own research and read reviews before making a final decision.

In conclusion, choosing the right air fryer for chicken comes down to size, power, cooking functions, and ease of use and cleaning. By considering these factors and doing your research, you can find an air fryer that will produce delicious, crispy chicken every time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I put raw chicken in an air fryer?

Yes, you put raw frozen chicken in the air fryer! You won't be able to brine it first or pound it to an even thickness (so the results are not *as* juicy) but if you forget to thaw your chicken, it's a great option to have on hand.

2. Does the air fryer cook chicken well?

Air fryer chicken has a nice firm, but juicy texture, much like roasted or baked chicken. So, if you like roasted/baked chicken, you will like this. It takes less time to cook. We're not talking tons less, but quite a bit less, especially for larger pieces.

3. How do I fry chicken in an air fryer?

Dredge 3 thighs and 3 drumsticks in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess. Place the pieces in the preheated air-fryer basket, skin-side up without touching. Spray the chicken generously with the cooking spray and air fry until the chicken is cooked through and the crust is crisp and deep golden, about 27 minutes.

4. What Cannot be cooked in Airfryer?

Any food with a wet batter should not be placed in the air fryer. You also want to avoid putting food that has a wet batter, like corndogs or tempura shrimp, in air fryers.

Editor's Notes

During our air fryer for chicken research, we found 16 air fryer for chicken products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 840,087 customer reviews through our big data system to write the air fryers for chicken list. We found that most customers choose air fryers for chicken with an average price of $128.46.

The air fryers for chicken are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of air fryers for chicken, including Ninja, Emeril Lagasse, Chefman, Cuisinart, BELLA. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Rebecca Cantu Avatar

Rebecca Cantu grew up in a family-owned retail store for home and kitchen products. She worked online and gave assistance to people to buy ideal products for their sweet home after graduating from Northwestern University with a marketing degree. She has been writing content for online shopping guides since 2011 with her professional knowledge and natural sensitivity of appliances.