Air Fried Chicken Skins 

Let’s all admit it, the best part of the chicken is the crunchy skin! Unpopular opinion! Air fried chicken skins are the perfect way to enjoy this tasty treat without all the guilt of deep frying it. All you need is a good air fryer, some salt and pepper, and your favorite seasonings!

If you’re looking for a delectable and low-carb snack or appetizer, look no further than air fryer chicken skin. Crispy, flavorful, and easy to cook, chicken skin is a crowd-pleasing favorite that pairs well with a variety of dips, sauces, and seasonings.

And with the added convenience of cooking in an air fryer, you can enjoy this delicious treat with minimal clean-up and maximum satisfaction.

Ingredients

To make air fryer chicken skin, you’ll need the following ingredients:

6-7 pieces of chicken skin, patted dry (you can get these from the butcher or take them off chicken thighs – and cook the chicken thighs after!)

½ tsp salt

⅛ tsp black pepper

Instructions

Preheat your air fryer to 390°F.

Season the chicken skin with salt and pepper on both sides.

Place the chicken skin in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You might have to do this in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.

Cook for 8-10 minutes until crispy. No need to flip.

Remove the chicken skin from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Recipe Tips

For even crispier chicken skin, try salting the skin and leaving it uncovered in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. This will help draw out moisture and make the skin more crispy when cooked.

You can also experiment with different seasonings, such as garlic powder, paprika, or cayenne pepper.

Substitutions

If you don’t have access to chicken skin, you can also use turkey skin or pork rinds as a substitute.

If you’re looking for a low-sodium option, you can skip the salt or use a salt substitute such as garlic salt or onion powder.

FAQs

Q: How can I store air fryer chicken skin?

A: You can store leftover chicken skin in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the air fryer for a few minutes to crisp it up again.

Q: Can I freeze chicken skin?

A: Yes, you can freeze chicken skin for up to 3 months. Make sure to thaw it completely before cooking in the air fryer.

Q: Is air fryer chicken skin healthy?

A: While chicken skin is high in fat, cooking it in the air fryer can help reduce the amount of oil needed for crispy results. Additionally, using your own seasonings allows you to control the sodium content of the dish. As with any food, however, moderation is key. Enjoy air fryer chicken skin in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Q: What can I serve with air fryer chicken skin?

A: Air fryer chicken skin pairs well with a variety of dips and sauces, such as ranch dressing or BBQ sauce. You could also serve it with a side of veggies for a complete meal. Experiment to find your favorite pairing!

Q: Is air fryer chicken skin gluten-free?

A: Yes, as long as you use gluten-free seasonings, air fryer chicken skin is naturally gluten-free. Check the label of your seasonings to be sure they are indeed gluten-free.

Q: Can I make air fryer chicken skin in advance?

A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken skins ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply pop them in the air fryer for a few minutes to crisp them back up.

Q: What other proteins can I cook in an air fryer?

A: You can cook pretty much anything that you would usually cook in your oven, from chicken and fish to veggies and French fries. The possibilities are endless!

Q: How long does it take to cook chicken skin in an air fryer?

A: It usually takes 8-10 minutes for chicken skin to cook through in an air fryer set at 390°F. To ensure even cooking results, flip the chicken skins halfway through. You may need more or less time depending on the size and thickness of your chicken skins.

Q: Is air fryer chicken skin kid-friendly?

A: Yes, air fryer chicken skin is a great option for kids. Kids will love the crispy texture and you can customize the seasoning to make it as mild or spicy as they like. Serve with their favorite dipping sauce for an extra special treat!

Q: What other ways can I cook chicken skin?

A: Chicken skin can also be cooked in your oven on a baking sheet lined with foil. Preheat the oven to 375°F and bake for about 15 minutes until golden brown and crispy. You can also pan-fry chicken skins in a skillet over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Be sure to use enough oil or butter to ensure even cooking. Lastly, you can also deep-fry chicken skin in a pot of hot oil for about 5 minutes. Be sure to use caution when working with hot oil.

Q: Can I make air fryer chicken skin without salt?

A: Yes, you can omit the salt or use a salt substitute such as garlic salt or onion powder. Alternatively, you could also use unsalted seasonings and sprinkle on some sea salt after cooking for an extra dose of flavor.

Q: What seasonings work best for air fryer chicken skin?

A: For a classic flavor, garlic powder, onion powder and paprika are great options. You could also experiment with other spices like cumin, chili powder or even Italian seasoning for more adventurous flavors. Don’t forget to add some black pepper for an extra kick! Finally, you can customize the dish with your own favorite seasonings and dress up with various condiments and dipping sauces.

Air fryer chicken skin is a delicious and easy snack or appetizer that will please any crowd. With only three ingredients and a simple cooking process, you can enjoy crispy and flavorful chicken skin in no time. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and dipping sauces to make this dish your own.