Cooking chicken in an air fryer has become a game-changer for so many of us. It’s quick, healthier, and delivers that amazing crispy texture without all the oil and mess of deep-frying. But let’s be honest, even the best air fryer chicken needs a little help to go from good to absolutely glorious. That’s where the right seasoning comes in!
Finding the best chicken seasoning for air fryer can truly elevate your meals, transforming a simple chicken breast or a batch of wings into a culinary masterpiece. A great seasoning blend doesn’t just add flavor; it can also contribute to that coveted golden-brown crust we all love.
But with so many options out there, how do you pick the perfect one? Don’t sweat it! We’ve done the legwork for you, diving deep into the world of spice blends to bring you our top picks. Get ready to discover your new secret weapon for the most delicious air-fried chicken you’ve ever tasted.
Why Your Air Fryer Chicken Needs a Star Seasoning
Think about it: an air fryer works by circulating hot air, creating a convection effect that crisps up food. While this is fantastic for texture, it can sometimes dry out or leave chicken a bit bland if not properly seasoned. The right blend of herbs and spices not only infuses flavor deep into the meat but can also help create a beautiful, savory crust. Whether you’re making tenders, thighs, or a whole roasted chicken, a specialized seasoning makes all the difference.
What to Look For in an Air Fryer Chicken Seasoning
When scouting for the best chicken seasoning for air fryer, consider these points:
- Flavor Profile: Do you want savory, spicy, herby, or a classic rotisserie taste?
- Ingredients: Look for natural ingredients, and avoid artificial flavors, excessive fillers, or MSG if that’s a concern for you.
- Texture (Seasoning vs. Coating): Are you looking for a dry rub that adds flavor, or a coating mix that creates an extra crispy crust? Some products are specifically designed as a “coating.”
- Versatility: Can you use it on other meats or veggies too?
- Ease of Use: Is it a simple shake-and-bake, or does it require more prep?
Now, let’s get to the good stuff – our top 10 picks for transforming your air-fried chicken!
Our Top Picks for the Best Chicken Seasoning for Air Fryer
Louisiana Fish Fry Air Fryer Chicken Seasoned Coating Mix
This coating mix from Louisiana Fish Fry is a fantastic option if you’re aiming for that ultimate crispy texture without the mess of traditional frying. It’s pre-mixed specifically for air fryers, ensuring an even coat and a delicious, crunchy finish that makes every bite satisfying. You’ll achieve maximum crispiness with significantly less oil, making your favorite fried chicken healthier and easier to prepare at home.
-
Key Features:
- Achieve maximum crunch and flavor with this Air Fryer Chicken Coating Mix.
- Specially pre-mixed for air fryers, ensuring even coating and delicious results.
- Enjoy perfectly crispy chicken in no time, with less oil than traditional frying.
- Convenient 5oz box provides ample coating mix for multiple batches.
- Elevate your air-fried chicken with a seasoned coating that enhances taste.
- Simple and hassle-free way to create crispy, flavorful chicken at home.
- Make your favorite dishes healthier without sacrificing taste.
-
Pros:
- Delivers exceptional crispiness.
- Easy to use, no complex prep.
- Reduces oil usage significantly.
- Generous quantity per box for multiple uses.
- Great for a “fried chicken” feel.
-
Cons:
- Specific flavor profile might not appeal to everyone.
- It’s a coating, not just a seasoning rub, which some might prefer.
-
User Impressions: Users rave about the incredible crunch this mix provides, often comparing it favorably to deep-fried chicken. Many appreciate how easy it is to use and the consistent results, especially for drumsticks and wings. Some note that while delicious, it has a distinct savory flavor.
McCormick Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Seasoning Mix, 1.25 oz
McCormick truly understands the air fryer game, and their Garlic Parmesan Seasoning Mix is a testament to that. Developed specifically for air fryers, this blend brings those universally loved garlic and Parmesan flavors right to your chicken and even fries. It’s designed for quick cooking and less cleanup, making weeknight dinners a breeze, all while ensuring your food is packed with flavor without artificial additives.
-
Key Features:
- Developed especially for the air fryer.
- Delivers family-favorite garlic parmesan flavors to dinner.
- Enjoy air-fried Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Garlic Parmesan Fries with less oil.
- Ready in less time than frying and with less mess to clean up.
- No artificial flavors; made with McCormick spices, including oregano and basil.
-
Pros:
- Convenient and perfectly portioned for air fryer use.
- Classic, crowd-pleasing flavor.
- Quick and easy to prepare meals.
- No artificial flavors.
- Versatile for both chicken and potatoes.
-
Cons:
- Small package size means you might run out quickly.
- The flavor might be too subtle for those who prefer very bold tastes.
-
User Impressions: Customers love the convenience and familiar taste of this seasoning. It’s praised for making quick, flavorful chicken and fries, and many appreciate that it avoids artificial ingredients. It’s a go-to for busy families looking for a simple yet delicious meal.
McCormick Air Fryer Loaded Seasoning Mix, 1.25 oz
If you’re a fan of those “loaded” flavors – think bacon, cheese, and chives – but want them on your chicken, this McCormick Air Fryer Loaded Seasoning Mix is a fantastic find. It captures the irresistible taste of a loaded potato and brings it to your air-fried chicken tenders or fries. Like other McCormick air fryer specific blends, it promises less oil, quicker cooking, and no artificial flavors, making it a clever way to add a gourmet touch to your healthy meals.
-
Key Features:
- Developed especially for the air fryer.
- Delivers the irresistible flavors of a loaded potato.
- Enjoy air-fried Loaded Fries & Loaded Chicken Tenders with less oil.
- Ready in less time than frying and with less mess to clean up.
- No artificial flavors; made with McCormick spices, including paprika.
-
Pros:
- Unique and appealing “loaded” flavor profile.
- Designed for optimal air fryer performance.
- Reduces cooking time and cleanup.
- Free from artificial flavors.
- Great for chicken and potato dishes.
-
Cons:
- The specific flavor might not be a daily go-to for everyone.
- Small package size, similar to other McCormick mixes.
-
User Impressions: People enjoy the innovative flavor, noting how well it recreates the “loaded” experience on chicken and fries. It’s often highlighted for adding a fun twist to standard meals and making air-fried dishes more exciting. Some mention it’s a hit with kids!
Louisiana Fish Fry, Air Fryer Chicken Coating Mix, 5 oz (Pack of 6)
For those who simply can’t get enough of that perfect air-fried crisp, this 6-pack of Louisiana Fish Fry Air Fryer Chicken Coating Mix is a dream come true. This isn’t just a seasoning; it’s a coating mix designed to give you maximum crunch and full flavor with every bite. Easy to use and specially pre-mixed, it captures authentic Louisiana flavor, ensuring your chicken is not only perfectly crispy but also boasts a rich, savory taste. It’s incredibly versatile, perfect for chicken parmesan, sandwiches, or wings.
-
Key Features:
- AIR FRYER CHICKEN COATING MIX: Enjoy an even coating, maximum crunch, and full flavor in no time!
- UNMATCHED TEXTURE, DELICIOUS TASTE: Helps create delicious and perfectly crispy chicken quickly, with less oil.
- Each box coats up to 2 pounds of chicken.
- SPECIALIZED AND VERSATILE: Lends itself to a pleasant and crunchy texture for chicken parmesan, sandwiches, wings, or onion rings.
- EASY TO PREPARE: Easy to cook in your air fryer or conventional oven, formulated for consistent flavor and texture.
- AUTHENTIC LOUISIANA FLAVOR: Captures the flavors of an authentic Cajun kitchen with home-grown recipes.
-
Pros:
- Exceptional crispiness and texture.
- Authentic, savory Cajun-inspired flavor.
- Highly versatile for various chicken dishes and even veggies.
- Very easy to use for consistent results.
- Bulk pack offers great value for regular users.
-
Cons:
- The Cajun flavor might not suit all tastes.
- It’s a coating, which means a specific “fried” texture rather than a light seasoning.
-
User Impressions: Users are consistently impressed by the “fried” chicken results without the oil. The crunch is a major highlight, and the convenience of a pre-mixed coating is highly praised. Many appreciate the distinct, savory flavor that sets it apart from typical seasonings.
McCormick Perfect Pinch Rotisserie Chicken Seasoning, 5 oz
If you adore the savory, slow-roasted flavor of rotisserie chicken, but want to achieve it with your air fryer, McCormick’s Perfect Pinch Rotisserie Chicken Seasoning is your go-to. This isn’t a coating, but a wonderfully balanced blend of onion, spices, and garlic designed to impart that classic taste and even a golden appearance without needing a rotisserie. It’s incredibly versatile, working beautifully on whole chickens, parts, and even other proteins like salmon or pork, all while being gluten-free with no added MSG.
-
Key Features:
- A savory seasoning for chicken.
- A blend of onion, spices, and garlic.
- For slow-roasted flavor and a golden appearance without using a rotisserie.
- Great for whole chicken, chicken parts, salmon, pork, and chicken salad.
- Gluten-free; no MSG added.
-
Pros:
- Delivers authentic rotisserie chicken flavor.
- Highly versatile for various meats and dishes.
- Gluten-free and no added MSG.
- Helps achieve a golden appearance.
- A larger 5oz container for multiple uses.
-
Cons:
- Not a “coating” mix, so won’t add extra crispiness like some others.
- Flavor profile is specific to rotisserie, so less adventurous than other blends.
-
User Impressions: Customers frequently use this seasoning for its ability to mimic the classic rotisserie flavor and appearance. It’s a pantry staple for many who appreciate its versatility and the absence of MSG. People find it perfect for everyday chicken dishes.
Weber Kick’n Chicken Seasoning, 11 oz
Ready to kick up the flavor of your air-fried chicken? Weber’s Kick’n Chicken Seasoning is a fantastic choice that brings a unique zest to your poultry. This blend isn’t just for the grill; it works wonders in the air fryer, thanks to its special ingredient: orange peel. This citrusy note, combined with other savory spices, creates a vibrant, delicious profile that’s anything but bland. Plus, you can feel good knowing it’s free of preservatives, artificial ingredients, and MSG.
-
Key Features:
- Kicks up the flavor of chicken, turkey, pork chops, or even fish.
- Grill master secret: the unique addition of orange peel.
- No Preservatives or No Artificial Preservatives.
- Gluten-Free.
- No MSG.
-
Pros:
- Unique and zesty flavor profile thanks to orange peel.
- Highly versatile for various meats.
- Large 11 oz container offers good value.
- Free from common undesirable additives (preservatives, artificial flavors, MSG, gluten).
-
Cons:
- Not specifically designed as an air fryer “coating,” so won’t enhance crispiness beyond what the air fryer does.
- The orange peel flavor might not be for every palate.
-
User Impressions: Users love the distinctive, tangy flavor that this seasoning imparts. It’s a popular choice for grilling and air frying alike, praised for its versatility and clean ingredient list. Many find it adds a refreshing twist to their usual chicken recipes.
McCormick Air Fryer Buffalo Seasoning Mix, 1.25 oz
For those who love a bit of heat and the iconic tang of buffalo sauce, McCormick’s Air Fryer Buffalo Seasoning Mix is a must-try. Infused with the flavor and heat of Frank’s RedHot Sauce, this seasoning is developed specifically for your air fryer, ensuring crispy Buffalo Wings and Buffalo Fries with less oil. It’s a convenient way to get that classic flavor without the messy sauce, all ready in less time and with easy cleanup.
-
Key Features:
- Developed especially for the air fryer.
- Adds flavor and heat from Frank’s RedHot Sauce.
- Enjoy crisp Buffalo Wings & Buffalo Fries, made with less oil.
- Ready in less time than frying and with less mess to clean up.
- No artificial flavors; made with McCormick spices, including garlic powder & paprika.
- Serves as both chicken wings seasoning and French fry seasoning.
- Can also be used for oven preparation.
-
Pros:
- Authentic Frank’s RedHot Buffalo flavor.
- Designed for air fryer efficiency (less oil, quick).
- Versatile for both chicken wings and fries.
- No artificial flavors.
- Can be used in ovens too.
-
Cons:
- Small package size.
- Spice level might be too mild or too strong depending on personal preference.
-
User Impressions: This seasoning is a hit for anyone craving buffalo flavor with minimal effort. Users appreciate how it delivers the classic taste and heat, making crispy wings and fries without the saucy mess. It’s frequently praised for its convenience and accurate flavor profile.
McCormick Air Fryer Buffalo Seasoning Mix, 1.25 oz (Pack of 6)
If you’re a serious fan of buffalo flavor and plan on making air-fried wings or fries regularly, investing in this 6-pack of McCormick Air Fryer Buffalo Seasoning Mix is a smart move. You get the same great seasoning that delivers the iconic heat and tang of Frank’s RedHot Sauce, but in a bulk pack. It ensures you always have this specially formulated air fryer seasoning on hand for quick, less-oil, and less-mess meals. Perfect for game nights or whenever that buffalo craving hits!
-
Key Features:
- Developed especially for the air fryer.
- Adds flavor and heat from Frank’s RedHot Sauce.
- Enjoy crisp Buffalo Wings & Buffalo Fries, made with less oil.
- Ready in less time than frying and with less mess to clean up.
- No artificial flavors; made with McCormick spices, including garlic powder & paprika.
-
Pros:
- Convenient bulk pack for frequent use.
- Authentic and popular buffalo flavor profile.
- Optimized for air fryer cooking efficiency.
- Reduces oil usage and cleanup.
- Free from artificial flavors.
-
Cons:
- Committing to a 6-pack if you’re not sure you’ll love the flavor.
- Spice level is predetermined.
-
User Impressions: Buyers of the multi-pack are usually already fans, appreciating the value and convenience. They consistently praise the reliable buffalo flavor and how well it works in the air fryer to produce crispy, flavorful results without the need for additional sauces.
Dan-O’s Original Seasoning, 2.5 oz Bottle, All Purpose
Dan-O’s Original Seasoning has quickly become a fan favorite for good reason: it’s truly an all-purpose seasoning that elevates nearly any dish, and air fryer chicken is no exception! Crafted with premium ingredients like rosemary, garlic, onion, and both lemon and orange peel, it’s a balanced blend with just the right amount of all-natural sea salt. What truly sets it apart is its commitment to “no fluff, just flavor” – it’s all-natural, kosher, GMO-free, sugar-free, and has zero calories.
-
Key Features:
- ALL PURPOSE SEASONING: Originally crafted for chicken but versatile enough for any dish (meat, veggies, pasta).
- IT’S DAN-GOOD: Made with premium ingredients like rosemary, garlic, onion, lemon peel, orange peel, and other spices.
- USE IT ANYWHERE: Great as a rub for grilling, cooking, or even sprinkling on popcorn.
- NO FLUFF, JUST FLAVOR: All-natural, kosher, free from GMOs, sugar, and has zero calories.
- Founded in 2015, committed to inspiring fun and healthy cooking.
-
Pros:
- Incredibly versatile for a wide range of dishes.
- High-quality, natural ingredients.
- Healthy option (zero calories, sugar-free, no GMOs).
- Unique and balanced flavor profile.
- Large, re-sealable bottle for long-term use.
-
Cons:
- Not a “coating” mix, so no added crispiness.
- Might be pricier than some basic seasoning blends.
-
User Impressions: Dan-O’s garners immense praise for its versatility and delicious, well-rounded flavor. Users frequently use it on everything from chicken to vegetables, appreciating its natural ingredients and the fact that it’s a healthier choice. Many consider it a “go-to” seasoning that instantly makes food taste better.
Everything But The Chicken Seasoning | Gourmet Seasoning
For those who want to bring out the absolute best in their air-fried chicken, “Everything But The Chicken Seasoning” is a gourmet blend designed to impress. This ultra-rich seasoning is your secret weapon, versatile enough for the air fryer, oven, grill, or roaster. What truly makes it stand out is its commitment to quality: it’s Non-GMO, contains No MSG, No Fillers, and No Artificial Anything. Crafted in small batches, it ensures a premium, artisanal product that transforms simple chicken into a signature dish.
-
Key Features:
- VERSATILE & EASY TO USE: From roaster to air fryer, oven to grill, a secret weapon in the kitchen.
- NON GMO: Free of GMOs for natural, healthy eating.
- NO MSG, NO FILLERS, NO ARTIFICIAL ANYTHING: Crafted with only the best all-natural ingredients.
- SMALL BATCH QUALITY: Artisanal products carefully crafted and hand-packed.
- BRING OUT THE BEST IN YOUR CHICKEN: Elevates cooking to new heights, transforming simple plates into signature dishes.
-
Pros:
- Gourmet quality flavor.
- Exceptional ingredient integrity (Non-GMO, no MSG, no artificial ingredients, no fillers).
- Highly versatile for all cooking methods.
- Small batch production suggests higher quality control.
- Enhances the natural flavor of chicken significantly.
-
Cons:
- Likely a higher price point due to quality ingredients and small-batch production.
- Not a coating, so won’t add extra crispiness.
-
User Impressions: Customers consistently highlight the superior flavor and quality of this seasoning. They appreciate the clean ingredient list and how it truly enhances the taste of chicken without overpowering it. It’s often described as a “staple” for elevated home cooking.
FAQs About Air Fryer Chicken Seasonings
Q1: Why is specific “air fryer” seasoning important?
A1: While you can use any seasoning, some blends are specifically formulated for air fryers to enhance crispiness (if they’re a coating mix) or to provide optimal flavor when cooked with hot circulating air, preventing drying out or uneven seasoning. They often focus on quick application and robust flavor.
Q2: How much seasoning should I use for air fryer chicken?
A2: It depends on the seasoning and your personal taste! Start with about 1 tablespoon per pound of chicken for dry rubs, and adjust from there. For coating mixes, follow the package instructions for the best coverage. It’s always easier to add more later than to remove too much!
Q3: Can I use regular spices and herbs instead of a pre-made mix?
A3: Absolutely! You can create your own custom blends using common pantry spices like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, thyme, oregano, and chili powder. The beauty of pre-made mixes is convenience and often unique, balanced flavor profiles.
Q4: What’s the difference between a “seasoning” and a “coating mix”?
A4: A “seasoning” or “dry rub” is primarily a blend of spices and herbs that adds flavor to the surface of the chicken. A “coating mix” typically contains ingredients like flour, cornstarch, or breadcrumbs in addition to seasonings, designed to create a crispy, textured crust, similar to traditional fried chicken.
Q5: Will these seasonings make my air fryer chicken crispy?
A5: Seasoning blends primarily add flavor. However, coating mixes (like the Louisiana Fish Fry options) are specifically designed to create a crispy crust in the air fryer. For other seasonings, ensuring your chicken is dry before seasoning and not overcrowding the air fryer basket are key to achieving crispiness.
Q6: Are these seasonings only for chicken, or can I use them on other foods?
A6: Many of the seasonings listed (like Dan-O’s or Weber) are quite versatile and can be used on other meats like pork, fish, or beef, and even on vegetables, roasted potatoes, or in marinades. Always check the product description for suggested uses!
Q7: How do I store air fryer seasonings to keep them fresh?
A7: Store your seasonings in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat (like above the stove). Make sure the lids are tightly sealed to prevent moisture and air from getting in, which can degrade flavor and freshness.
Q8: Are there low-sodium options available for air fryer chicken seasoning?
A8: Yes, some brands offer low-sodium or no-salt-added versions. Dan-O’s, for example, focuses on lower sodium with natural sea salt. Always check the nutritional information on the packaging if sodium content is a concern for you.
Finding the best chicken seasoning for air fryer cooking is all about personal preference and the kind of meal you’re hoping to create. Whether you’re chasing that ultimate crispy coating, a classic rotisserie flavor, or a bold and spicy kick, there’s a perfect blend out there for you.
With our top picks, you’re well on your way to enjoying perfectly cooked, incredibly flavorful, and wonderfully crispy air-fried chicken every time. Happy air frying!