If you’ve joined the air fryer revolution, you already know it’s a game-changer for getting crispy, delicious food with way less oil. But let’s be real: even the crispiest chicken needs a flavor boost. That’s where the best seasoning for air fryer chicken comes in! A fantastic seasoning blend can transform a simple chicken breast, wing, or thigh into a culinary masterpiece.
Finding that perfect blend can feel a bit like searching for a needle in a haystack with so many options out there. From savory and smoky to spicy and zesty, the right seasoning can make all the difference between “just chicken” and “wow, that’s amazing chicken!” We’ve done the legwork for you, scouting out the top contenders that will take your air-fried poultry from good to absolutely glorious.
Ready to add some serious flavor to your next meal? Let’s dive into our top picks for the best seasoning for air fryer chicken!
Our Top 10 Picks for Air Fryer Chicken Seasoning
1. Louisiana Fish Fry Air Fryer Chicken Seasoned Coating Mix
Looking for that ultimate fried chicken crunch without all the oil? This seasoned coating mix from Louisiana Fish Fry is your secret weapon! It’s specifically formulated for air fryers, ensuring an even coat and maximum crispiness every single time. Get ready for perfectly golden, incredibly crunchy chicken that tastes like it was deep-fried but is much healthier. It’s super simple to use, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you still crave that classic comfort food experience.
- Achieve maximum crunch and flavor with our 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 tailored for air fryers
– Requires significantly less oil than deep frying
– Easy to use for beginners and pros alike
– Convenient pre-mixed blend
Cons:
– It’s a coating mix, not a pure dry rub, so texture is different
– May not be ideal if you prefer a lighter seasoning
User Impressions: Users rave about the incredible crunch and authentic flavor this mix provides, often remarking how it makes air fryer chicken taste just like their favorite fried chicken. Many appreciate the ease of preparation and the healthier aspect.
2. McCormick Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Seasoning Mix, 1.25 oz
Who doesn’t love the classic combo of garlic and Parmesan? McCormick brings this family-favorite flavor directly to your air fryer with a seasoning mix designed specifically for it. This blend is perfect for creating savory Garlic Parmesan chicken or even delicious Garlic Parmesan fries, all with less oil and less mess. It’s a quick and easy way to infuse your meals with a rich, aromatic taste that everyone will enjoy.
- McCormick Air Fryer Seasoning Mixes are developed especially for the air fryer
- Garlic Parmesan Seasoning Mix delivers family-favorite flavors to dinner
- Enjoy air-fried Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Garlic Parmesan Fries, made with less oil than with deep-frying
- 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:
– Specifically formulated for air fryer use
– Versatile for both chicken and sides like fries
– Classic, widely loved flavor profile
– No artificial flavors, uses McCormick’s quality spices
Cons:
– Small package size (1.25 oz) might run out quickly
– Not suitable for those who dislike garlic or cheese flavors
User Impressions: Customers love the convenience and the strong, authentic garlic Parmesan flavor. Many mention how effortlessly it turns simple ingredients into a flavorful meal, praising its performance in the air fryer.
3. Louisiana Fish Fry, Air Fryer Chicken Coating Mix, 5 oz (6 Count)
If you’re hooked on that perfect air-fried crunch and Cajun-inspired flavor, this 6-pack of Louisiana Fish Fry Air Fryer Chicken Coating Mix is a must-have for your pantry. It’s the same great mix as the single box, but with the added convenience of bulk, ensuring you’re always stocked up for delicious, crispy chicken. Whether you’re whipping up chicken parmesan, game-day wings, or even onion rings, this specialized coating delivers consistent, mouth-watering results every time. It’s truly the best seasoning for air fryer chicken if you love a crispy, seasoned crust.
- AIR FRYER CHICKEN COATING MIX: Enjoy an even coating, maximum crunch and full flavor in no time! Louisiana Fish Fry Air Fryer Seasoned Coating Mix is easy to use, specially pre-mixed and created for air fryers.
- UNMATCHED TEXTURE, DELICIOUS TASTE: Air Fryer Chicken helps you create delicious and perfectly crispy chicken quickly, and with less oil than regular frying. Contains 6 boxes of Seasoned Coating mix, and each box coats up to 2 pounds of chicken.
- SPECIALIZED AND VERSATILE: Air-frying your chicken with this seasoning blend will lend itself to a pleasant and crunchy texture. Create delectable chicken parmesan, chicken sandwiches, game day chicken wings or onion rings to share.
- EASY TO PREPARE: Whether you’re an air fry pro or a curious newcomer, our air fryer mix is easy to cook in your air fryer or conventional oven. Formulated with consistency in mind, achieve the same delicious flavor and texture with every use.
- AUTHENTIC LOUISIANA FLAVOR: Cajun cooking takes time. In fact, we’ve been perfecting it for 60 years. We’re proud to call Baton Rouge, Louisiana our home, allowing us to capture the flavors of an authentic Cajun kitchen with home-grown recipes in mind.
Pros:
– Excellent value with a 6-pack for frequent use
– Authentic Cajun flavor for a distinct taste
– Highly versatile for various chicken dishes and even other foods
– Guaranteed maximum crunch and less oil
– Easy to prepare for all skill levels
Cons:
– Still a coating mix, not a pure seasoning rub
– May be too much quantity for very infrequent air fryer users
User Impressions: Loyal customers adore the bulk option, ensuring they never run out of their go-to mix. They consistently praise its ability to produce restaurant-quality crispy chicken and its versatile use for different recipes.
4. Weber Kick’n Chicken Seasoning, 11 oz
Ready to give your chicken a little kick? Weber Kick’n Chicken Seasoning is a fantastic choice for those who love a bold, zesty flavor profile. While not exclusively an air fryer seasoning, its robust blend, featuring the secret ingredient of orange peel, makes it incredibly versatile and delicious for air-fried chicken. It’s also perfect for grilling, roasting, or pan-frying, adding a vibrant twist to chicken, turkey, pork chops, or even fish. Plus, it’s free from preservatives, artificial ingredients, gluten, and MSG!
- Kick up the flavor of chicken, turkey, pork chops or even fish.
- Our grill master secret in this seasoning blend is the orange peel
- No Preservatives or No Artificial Preservatives
- Gluten Free
- No MSG
Pros:
– Unique and vibrant flavor profile with orange peel
– Highly versatile for various meats and cooking methods
– Free from common allergens and artificial additives
– Large 11 oz container offers good value
Cons:
– Not specifically formulated for air fryers (though works great)
– The “kick” might be too much for those preferring mild flavors
User Impressions: Grill masters and home cooks alike appreciate its distinct flavor and versatility. Users often mention how it elevates simple chicken dishes and love that it’s a “clean” seasoning.
5. McCormick Air Fryer Loaded Seasoning Mix, 1.25 oz
Craving the irresistible flavors of a loaded baked potato in your chicken? McCormick’s Air Fryer Loaded Seasoning Mix delivers exactly that! Designed specifically for air fryers, this blend infuses your chicken tenders or even fries with the savory, comforting taste of a loaded potato, complete with paprika and other delicious spices. It’s perfect for creating a quick, satisfying meal that tastes indulgent but is made with less oil and minimal cleanup.
- McCormick Air Fryer Seasoning Mixes are developed especially for the air fryer
- Loaded Seasoning Mix delivers the irresistible flavors of a loaded potato
- Enjoy air-fried Loaded Fries & Loaded Chicken Tenders, made with less oil than with deep-frying
- 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 comforting “loaded potato” flavor
– Optimized for air fryer cooking, ensuring great results
– Reduces oil usage and cooking time
– Made with natural flavors and McCormick quality spices
Cons:
– Niche flavor profile might not appeal to everyone
– Small package size (1.25 oz)
User Impressions: Reviewers praise the innovative flavor and how well it translates to air-fried foods. Many enjoy using it on both chicken and potatoes for a complete comfort meal.
6. McCormick Air Fryer Buffalo Seasoning Mix, 1.25 oz (Pack of 2)
If you’re a fan of Frank’s RedHot and crave that classic Buffalo wing flavor, this 2-pack of McCormick Air Fryer Buffalo Seasoning Mix is a total game-changer! Designed for air fryers, it brings the perfect blend of spice and tang to your chicken wings and fries, all without the mess and oil of deep-frying. Having two packs means you’re always ready to whip up a batch of spicy, crispy goodness for game night or any time the craving hits. It’s a top contender for the best seasoning for air fryer chicken if you love a kick.
- McCormick Air Fryer Seasoning Mixes are developed especially for the air fryer
- Frank’s Buffalo Air Fryer Seasoning adds flavor and heat from Frank’s RedHot Sauce
- Enjoy crisp Buffalo Wings & Buffalo Fries, made with less oil than with deep-frying
- 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:
– Authentic Frank’s RedHot Buffalo flavor
– Specifically formulated for air fryer performance
– Convenient pack of two for regular use
– Versatile for both chicken and fries
– Reduces oil and cleanup compared to traditional frying
Cons:
– Might be too spicy for those sensitive to heat
– Only for fans of Buffalo flavor
User Impressions: Buffalo enthusiasts can’t get enough of this seasoning, praising its true-to-flavor profile and the incredible crispiness it helps achieve in the air fryer. The double pack is a popular feature for frequent users.
7. McCormick Air Fryer Buffalo Seasoning Mix, 1.25 oz
For those who want to dip their toes into the world of air-fried Buffalo flavor, this single pack of McCormick Air Fryer Buffalo Seasoning Mix is the perfect start. It delivers the same iconic Frank’s RedHot kick as its multi-pack counterpart, making it easy to create crispy, spicy chicken wings and fries with less oil and effort. Its specialized formulation ensures optimal results in your air fryer, but it’s also versatile enough for oven preparation!
- McCormick Air Fryer Seasoning Mixes are developed especially for the air fryer
- Frank’s Buffalo Air Fryer Seasoning adds flavor and heat from Frank’s RedHot Sauce
- Enjoy crisp Buffalo Wings & Buffalo Fries, made with less oil than with deep-frying
- Ready in less time than frying and with less mess to clean up
- No artificial flavors; made with McCormick spices, including garlic powder & paprika
- Chicken wings seasoning and French fry seasoning in one
- Can also be used for oven preparation
Pros:
– Authentic Frank’s RedHot Buffalo taste
– Optimized for air frying, but also oven-friendly
– Convenient single pack for trying out
– Multi-purpose for chicken wings and French fries
Cons:
– Small size might not last long if used frequently
– Flavor is heat-focused, not for everyone
User Impressions: New users of air fryers or Buffalo seasoning appreciate this convenient single pack. They often highlight how simple it is to achieve restaurant-style buffalo wings at home with minimal fuss.
8. McCormick Perfect Pinch Rotisserie Chicken Seasoning, 5 oz
Dreaming of juicy, flavorful rotisserie chicken but don’t have a rotisserie? McCormick Perfect Pinch Rotisserie Chicken Seasoning is your answer! This savory blend of onion, spices, and garlic is designed to give your chicken that slow-roasted, golden appearance and delicious taste, even in your air fryer. It’s incredibly versatile, working wonders on whole chicken, individual parts, and even other proteins like salmon and pork. Plus, it’s gluten-free with no MSG added, making it a healthy and delicious choice.
- Perfect Pinch Rotisserie Chicken Seasoning is a savory seasoning for chicken
- A blend of onion, spices and garlic
- For slow-roasted flavor and a golden appearance without using a rotisserie
- For whole chicken, chicken parts, salmon, pork and chicken salad
- Gluten free; no MSG added
Pros:
– Delivers classic rotisserie chicken flavor
– Highly versatile for various meats and dishes
– Gluten-free and no added MSG
– Good size container for multiple uses
Cons:
– Not specifically branded as “air fryer seasoning” (though works well)
– Flavor is savory, not spicy or tangy
User Impressions: Customers love this seasoning for achieving that beloved rotisserie taste at home. Many use it across different cooking methods, including air frying, and appreciate its clean ingredient list and versatility.
9. Everything But The Chicken Seasoning | Gourmet Seasoning
Elevate your chicken dishes to gourmet status with “Everything But The Chicken Seasoning.” This super-premium, all-natural blend is crafted with care in small batches, ensuring exceptional quality and flavor. It’s incredibly versatile, working beautifully whether you’re using your air fryer, oven, grill, or even just a pan. Free from GMOs, MSG, fillers, and artificial ingredients, this seasoning is for those who demand the very best and want to transform simple meals into signature dishes with vibrant, clean flavors. This might just be the best seasoning for air fryer chicken if you prioritize natural ingredients.
- VERSATILE & EASY TO USE: From the roaster to the air fryer, from the oven to the grill, this ultra rich seasoning is your secret weapon in the kitchen and at the grill.
- NON GMO: Our products are free of GMOs so you can be confident that you’re only eating the best in all natural foods.
- NO MSG, NO FILLERS, NO ARTIFICIAL ANYTHING: Our super-premium seasoning is crafted with care with only the very best in all natural ingredients.
- SMALL BATCH QUALITY: Since our beginnings at our local farmer’s market, we’ve carefully crafted our artisanal products in small quantities and packed them by hand.
- BRING OUT THE BEST IN YOUR CHICKEN: No matter what you’re making on the grill, in the oven, or into your pan, elevate your cooking to new heights with this gourmet spice mix and transform simple plates into signature dishes.
Pros:
– Premium, gourmet quality ingredients
– All-natural, non-GMO, no MSG, no artificial additives
– Highly versatile across all cooking methods (including air fryer)
– Small-batch crafting ensures consistent quality
– Elevates the flavor of any chicken dish
Cons:
– May be a higher price point due to quality and small-batch production
– Flavor profile is generalized for chicken, not a specific “kick”
User Impressions: Health-conscious foodies and those who appreciate artisanal products absolutely love this seasoning. They frequently praise its clean taste, rich flavor, and the fact that it makes all their chicken dishes taste restaurant-quality.
10. McCormick One Sheet Pan Chicken Parmesan Seasoning Mix, 1.5 oz
For a quick, easy, and delicious weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup, McCormick’s One Sheet Pan Chicken Parmesan Seasoning Mix is a lifesaver. While designed for a sheet pan, its classic Italian flavors make it a fantastic adaptable seasoning for air fryer chicken, especially if you’re making individual chicken parmesan portions. It brings together all the savory, cheesy goodness of Chicken Parmesan in a convenient mix, ensuring a family-favorite meal comes together quickly and effortlessly.
- Convenient seasoning mix for easy weeknight meals
- One pan meals = minimal clean-up
- Comes together quickly
- Classic Italian flavors
- Family-favorite meal
Pros:
– Streamlines meal prep for a quick dinner
– Offers classic, beloved Italian Chicken Parmesan flavors
– Great for minimal cleanup
– Can be adapted for air fryer individual portions
Cons:
– Primarily designed for a specific dish, not a general chicken seasoning
– Small package size (1.5 oz)
User Impressions: Busy families and individuals looking for convenient, flavorful dinner solutions highly recommend this mix. They love how easy it makes preparing a classic dish, and many have successfully adapted it for their air fryers.
FAQ: Mastering Air Fryer Chicken Seasoning
Q1: How much seasoning should I use for air fryer chicken?
A1: A good rule of thumb is about 1 tablespoon of seasoning per pound of chicken. However, this can vary based on the specific seasoning blend (some are more potent than others) and your personal taste preferences. Start with a moderate amount and you can always add a pinch more after cooking if needed.
Q2: Do I need to oil chicken before air frying, even with seasoning?
A2: It’s usually a good idea to lightly coat your chicken with a small amount of oil (like olive oil, avocado oil, or a cooking spray) before applying seasoning and air frying. This helps the seasoning stick better, promotes browning, and contributes to that desired crispy skin or coating. Many air fryer specific seasonings are designed to work with minimal oil.
Q3: Can I use any seasoning for air fryer chicken, or do I need specific “air fryer” blends?
A3: You can definitely use any seasoning for air fryer chicken! While “air fryer specific” blends are formulated for optimal crispiness and flavor in an air fryer, most standard rubs and spice blends will work wonderfully. Just be mindful of sugar-heavy seasonings, as they can burn more easily in the high, dry heat of an air fryer.
Q4: What’s the best temperature for air frying chicken?
A4: For most chicken pieces (breasts, thighs, drumsticks), 375-400°F (190-205°C) is generally recommended. Wings often do best at 380-400°F (195-205°C) for maximum crispiness. Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Q5: How do I get crispy skin on air fryer chicken?
A5: Achieving crispy skin is one of the air fryer’s superpowers! Here are a few tips: pat the chicken skin very dry before seasoning, lightly coat with oil, don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket (allow air to circulate), and flip the chicken halfway through cooking. Using a coating mix specifically designed for air fryers (like the Louisiana Fish Fry options) also helps tremendously.
Q6: Can I use these chicken seasonings for other meats or vegetables?
A6: Absolutely! Many chicken seasonings are incredibly versatile. Brands like Weber’s Kick’n Chicken or “Everything But The Chicken” are designed to be used on pork, turkey, fish, and even vegetables. Experiment to find your favorite combinations and expand your culinary horizons!
Q7: How long does it take to air fry chicken?
A7: Cooking times vary greatly depending on the chicken cut, thickness, and your air fryer model.
– Chicken breasts (boneless, skinless): 15-20 minutes
– Chicken thighs (boneless, skinless): 18-25 minutes
– Chicken drumsticks: 20-30 minutes
– Chicken wings: 20-25 minutes (often with a temperature adjustment mid-way)
Always cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Flipping halfway through is often recommended for even cooking.
Finding the best seasoning for air fryer chicken truly elevates your cooking game, turning simple meals into memorable ones. Whether you’re looking for ultimate crunch, classic savory notes, or a spicy kick, there’s a perfect blend out there for you. So go ahead, pick one of these fantastic options, fire up your air fryer, and get ready for some seriously delicious chicken!