Air Fryer Chicken and Potatoes is a super tasty meal that’s quick to whip up! Juicy chicken pieces are cooked until golden, while the potatoes get crispy on the outside and soft inside.
This dish is perfect for those busy nights when you want something delicious without all the fuss. I love how I can throw everything in the air fryer and then enjoy more time with my family while it cooks!
Plus, cleaning up is a breeze! The air fryer makes everything crispy, so you won’t even miss the oil. Trust me, it’s a family favorite at my place!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are my favorite because they stay juicy. However, you can also use chicken breasts. If you want a plant-based option, try using cubed tofu or tempeh, but adjust the cooking time for softer textures.
Potatoes: I opt for russet or Yukon gold potatoes for their texture when cooked. You could substitute with sweet potatoes for a sweeter flavor and extra nutrients. Just note that sweet potatoes may cook faster, so keep an eye on them!
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps crisp everything up. Feel free to swap with avocado oil for a higher smoke point or use melted butter if you prefer that rich flavor.
Spices: The combination of garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and herbs creates great flavor. If you don’t have one, feel free to mix in a bit of Italian seasoning or use fresh herbs if available.
How Do I Ensure Even Cooking in the Air Fryer?
To achieve perfectly cooked chicken and potatoes, it’s essential to mix and evenly coat the ingredients first. Here are some steps:
- Cut chicken and potatoes into similar sizes to promote even cooking.
- When you place them in the air fryer, arrange them without overlapping. This helps them cook evenly.
- Shake the basket halfway through cooking for consistent browning; it’s key to avoid steaming.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
With these steps, you’ll have beautifully cooked chicken and crispy potatoes every time!
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken and Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Potatoes:
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 2 cups)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and another 15-20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by putting the bite-sized chicken pieces into a bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil along with the garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, dried thyme (or rosemary), salt, and pepper. Mix everything well so that each piece is evenly coated with the spices and oil. This will make your chicken flavorful!
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
In another bowl, place the cubed potatoes. Drizzle them with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, and then sprinkle some salt and pepper over them. Toss the potatoes around until they are well coated in the oil and seasoning. They’ll turn out deliciously crispy in the air fryer!
3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This step is important for getting everything cooked evenly and nicely browned.
4. Cook in Air Fryer:
Now, it’s time to load up the air fryer! Place the seasoned chicken on one side of the air fryer basket and the seasoned potatoes on the other side. Cook everything at 400°F for 15-20 minutes. Make sure to shake the basket halfway through cooking to help everything cook evenly. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, and the potatoes should be golden and tender.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once your chicken and potatoes are cooked, carefully take the basket out of the air fryer. If you like, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a nice touch. Serve hot and enjoy your tasty Air Fryer Chicken and Potatoes!
### FAQ
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! You can use any type of potatoes you have on hand, such as Yukon Gold, red potatoes, or even sweet potatoes. Just keep in mind that different potatoes may have slightly different cooking times, so check for doneness by piercing them with a fork.
How Can I Make This Recipe Low-Carb?
If you’re looking for a low-carb option, you can substitute the potatoes with vegetables like cauliflower or zucchini. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces and reduce the cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking.
Can I Substitute the Chicken for Another Protein?
Yes! You can easily swap out the chicken for other proteins like turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly—shrimp cooks faster while tofu may need a bit longer to achieve a nice crispiness.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back into the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. This will help restore some of that crispy texture!
