Air fryers have completely revolutionized how we cook, turning once greasy delights into healthier, guilt-free versions. And let’s be honest, few things are as satisfying as perfectly crispy air fryer chicken. But achieving that golden, crunchy exterior and juicy interior isn’t just about tossing chicken into the basket. The right ingredients make all the difference, and perhaps none are as crucial as the best oil for air fryer chicken.
Choosing the right oil isn’t just about flavor; it’s about smoke point, even cooking, and ensuring your chicken doesn’t stick. Beyond oil, certain mixes and accessories can elevate your air frying game from good to absolutely amazing. We’ve rounded up 7 top products that can help you master the art of air-fried chicken, ensuring every bite is a winner. Let’s dive in!
1. Louisiana Fish Fry Air Fryer Chicken Seasoned Coating Mix
This isn’t an oil, but it’s a game-changer if you’re looking to get that deep-fried crispiness without all the excess grease. The Louisiana Fish Fry Air Fryer Chicken Seasoned Coating Mix is specifically designed to work wonders in your air fryer, providing a beautiful, golden-brown crust and plenty of flavor. It’s perfect for achieving maximum crunch with minimal effort, allowing you to enjoy healthier fried chicken that tastes incredibly indulgent.
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Key Features:
- 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
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Pros:
- Delivers exceptional crispiness in an air fryer
- Pre-seasoned for convenient flavor
- Reduces the need for excessive oil
- Easy to use for beginners and pros alike
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Cons:
- May contain allergens (wheat, etc.)
- Some users might prefer a milder seasoning
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User Impressions: Customers rave about how this mix finally helps them achieve that “fried” texture in their air fryer without the mess. They particularly love the seasoning, finding it strikes a good balance for chicken. Many highlight its ease of use and the consistent results it delivers.
See it on Amazon here
2. Mantova Air Fryer Spray 450F Smoke Point – All-Natural
When it comes to the best oil for air fryer chicken, a good quality spray is often top of the list. The Mantova Air Fryer Spray is an all-natural choice that stands out due to its high smoke point of 450°F, making it incredibly versatile and perfect for the high temperatures of air frying. A quick spritz ensures even coating for a golden finish and helps prevent sticking without drenching your food in unnecessary oil. It’s a fantastic staple for any air fryer enthusiast.
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Key Features:
- All-Natural Ingredients: Made with pure oil, free of additives and artificial flavors.
- High Smoke Point: Stands up to temperatures as high as 450°F, perfect for high-heat cooking.
- Versatile: Great for air fryers, roasting, grilling, baking, and more.
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Pros:
- High smoke point prevents burning and keeps food tasting fresh
- All-natural ingredients for healthier cooking
- Convenient spray bottle for even application
- Prevents sticking effectively
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Cons:
- A little pricier than generic cooking sprays
- Some users might go through it quickly
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User Impressions: Many users praise its clean taste and effectiveness in preventing food from sticking. The high smoke point is a frequent highlight, ensuring no burnt oil taste. It’s often described as a “must-have” for air fryer owners looking for a reliable and healthy oil option.
See it on Amazon here
3. Chicken Fry Mix – 100% Natural Crispy Wing Mix
This Chicken Fry Mix is another excellent contender for achieving that coveted crispy coating for your air-fried chicken wings, thighs, or breasts. While not an oil itself, it’s designed to deliver a perfectly golden and crunchy texture, mimicking traditional fried chicken but with significantly less oil when used in an air fryer. Its all-natural ingredients mean you’re getting great flavor without artificial additives, making it a healthier alternative for your family’s favorite chicken dishes.
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Key Features:
- 🍗 Crispy Perfection – Turn every meal into a crispy masterpiece with our fried chicken mix, which is specially crafted to deliver that golden, crispy coating every time you fry, making it effortless to achieve restaurant-quality fried chicken in your own kitchen!
- 🌿 Natural Ingredients – Crafted from a blend of carefully selected all-natural ingredients, our fried chicken seasoning mix is free from artificial additives, preservatives, and MSG. Enjoy peace of mind knowing you’re serving a healthier option without compromising on flavor!
- 📹 EFFORTLESS COOKING – With our instructional videos, you’ll master restaurant-quality results in no time. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, our simple, step-by-step guidance helps you create perfectly crispy, flavorful dishes every time with this chicken fry seasoning mix!
- 📦 GENEROUS SERVINGS – One cup of breaded chicken mix coats about 24 chicken wings, while the full package handles approximately 288 wings.
- 🎛️ Versatility Use – Not just for chicken! This chicken coating mix works wonders on fish, pork, and even vegetables, making it a versatile addition to your pantry. Compatible with all frying methods, including air frying, deep frying, pan frying, or turkey frying, it adapts to your preferences effortlessly!
- 🥗 Ultimate Combo Pack – Pair crispy wings with the perfect dip! Our combo pack includes a ranch dressing packet that’s creamy and tangy, designed to complement the crunchy coating of your wings.
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Pros:
- Delivers an incredibly crispy, golden coating
- Made with 100% natural ingredients, no artificial additives
- Versatile for various meats and vegetables
- Includes a bonus ranch dressing packet for a complete meal experience
- Generous servings, great for families or parties
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Cons:
- Specifically designed for frying (including air frying), not regular oven baking
- May require watching instructional videos for best results
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User Impressions: Users are thrilled with the restaurant-quality crispiness this mix provides, especially for wings. The natural ingredients are a big plus, and many appreciate the versatility beyond just chicken. The included ranch seasoning is a pleasant bonus, completing the meal.
See it on Amazon here
4. The Essential Air Fryer Cookbook for Two: Perfectly Sized Recipes for Your Favorite Appliance
While not an oil or mix, “The Essential Air Fryer Cookbook for Two” is an invaluable resource for anyone looking to perfect their air fryer skills, especially when it comes to chicken. This cookbook offers perfectly sized recipes, which often include specific guidance on how and when to use the best oil for air fryer chicken (or other ingredients) to achieve optimal results. It takes the guesswork out of air frying, helping you create delicious, healthier meals with ease.
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Key Features:
- Perfectly sized recipes for smaller households
- Comprehensive guide to using your air fryer effectively
- Features a variety of dishes, including many chicken recipes
- Offers tips for achieving crispy textures and even cooking
- Simplifies healthy eating with air fryer convenience
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Pros:
- Tailored for smaller servings, reducing food waste
- Provides clear, easy-to-follow instructions
- Inspires creativity with a wide range of recipes
- Helps users understand optimal air frying techniques, including oil usage
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Cons:
- May not be suitable for larger families needing bigger batches
- Focuses on recipes rather than general air fryer maintenance
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User Impressions: Home cooks love this cookbook for its practical, well-tested recipes and portion sizes. Many highlight how it helped them get the most out of their air fryer, particularly for perfectly cooked chicken and other meats. The clarity of instructions and helpful tips are frequently praised.
See it on Amazon here
5. PAM Air Fryer No-Stick Cooking Spray, 6 oz.
PAM is a household name, and their Air Fryer No-Stick Cooking Spray is specifically formulated to meet the unique demands of air frying. This spray is fantastic for ensuring your chicken doesn’t stick to the basket, leading to easier cleanup and perfectly intact crispy coatings. It’s made with no artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors, offering a clean and convenient way to lightly coat your food for that golden, non-stick finish. It’s definitely a solid choice for the best oil for air fryer chicken in a convenient spray form.
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Key Features:
- One 6 oz. can of PAM Air Fryer No-Stick Cooking Spray
- Non-stick spray provides easy cleanup after your favorite air fried meals
- Air fryer spray made with no artificial preservatives, colors or flavors
- Formulated for the high temperatures and cooking conditions of an air fryer
- Stock up on PAM cooking spray for superior no-stick performance
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Pros:
- Excellent non-stick performance
- Specifically designed for high air fryer temperatures
- No artificial additives for a healthier option
- Easy to use and provides even coverage
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Cons:
- Some users prefer non-aerosol sprays
- Can accumulate residue if not cleaned properly
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User Impressions: Users frequently commend PAM Air Fryer spray for its effectiveness in preventing sticking and making cleanup a breeze. Many appreciate that it’s designed for air fryers specifically, preventing issues like residue build-up that can occur with general cooking sprays. It’s seen as a reliable and convenient product.
See it on Amazon here
6. Ninja Air Fryer, Roast, Bake, Air Fry, Roast, Broil
Of course, to make great air fryer chicken, you need a great air fryer! The Ninja Air Fryer is a versatile powerhouse that allows you to air fry with up to 75% less fat than traditional frying methods, making healthy eating delicious. With a wide temperature range and a family-sized capacity, this appliance isn’t just for air frying; it can also roast, reheat, and dehydrate, making it an all-in-one kitchen essential. It’s the vessel that brings all your “best oil for air fryer chicken” efforts to fruition.
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Key Features:
- LESS FAT: Now enjoy guilt-free food. Air fry with up to 75% less fat than traditional frying methods. Tested against hand-cut, deep-fried French fries.
- WIDE TEMPERATURE RANGE: 105°F-400°F allows you to gently remove moisture from foods or quickly cook and crisp foods with convection heat.
- FAMILY-SIZED CAPACITY: 4-quart ceramic-coated nonstick basket and crisper plate fit 2 lbs of French fries.
- 4-IN-1 VERSATILITY: Includes 4 versatile cooking programs: Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate.
- EASY-TO-CLEAN: Dishwasher safe parts including the basket, and crisper plate. Wipe to clean machine exterior.
- WHAT’S INCLUDED: Shark Air Fryer, 4 Quart Nonstick Basket, Crisper Plate, and 20 Recipe Booklet.
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Pros:
- Significantly reduces fat compared to deep frying
- Versatile with multiple cooking functions
- Generous capacity for family meals
- Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe parts
- Delivers consistently crispy results
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Cons:
- Can be noisy during operation
- Takes up counter space
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User Impressions: Owners absolutely adore their Ninja Air Fryers, praising its ability to make food crispy and delicious with minimal oil. The ease of use and quick cooking times are frequently mentioned. Many find it replaces several other kitchen appliances due to its versatility.
See it on Amazon here
7. Ninja Dual Air Fryer Accessories – Stackable Rack, 304 Stainless Steel
To maximize your air frying efficiency and ensure even more fantastic results for your chicken, accessories like these Ninja Dual Air Fryer Stackable Racks are a must-have. These clever racks increase your air fryer’s cooking space, allowing you to cook multiple food items (like different chicken pieces or sides) simultaneously without them touching. The grid design promotes better air circulation, leading to crispier and more evenly cooked chicken, helping you get the most out of your choice of the best oil for air fryer chicken by ensuring consistent heating.
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Key Features:
- [BAKING MULTIPLE FOOD ONE TIME & MORE EVEN COOKING]: Three stackable air fryer racks can increase air fryer cooking space, allow you cook multiple food one time without touching each other. And grid design can achieve the better air circulation to make food crispier and cooking more even.
- [STACKABLE AIR FRYER RACKS WITH SIDE DESIGN]: No need installation required, easy to use. And the shelf is surrounded to make sure food won’t drop when frying or take out.
- [PREMIUM FOOD GRADE MATERIAL]: Made of high quality food grade 304 stainless steel, sturdy, rust-proof and high heat resistant, dishwasher safe, 100% safe for daily use.
- [PERFECT NINJA DUAL AIR FRYER ACCESSORIES]: Compatible with ninja dual air fryer DZ201 /DZ090, Instant Vortex Dualzone, Chefman dual air fryer and most double zone air fryers on the market, adding more versatility to them.
- [MULTI-FUNCTIONAL DEHYDRATOR RACK]: Not only can be used for grilling bacon or chicken wings, but also great for using as dehydrator rack to make various of dehydrated fruit or meat, lock in the nutrients. Suitable for air fryer, oven, microwave, pot, steamer and more.
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Pros:
- Dramatically increases cooking capacity
- Promotes even cooking and crispier results
- Made from high-quality, food-grade stainless steel
- Easy to use and clean (dishwasher safe)
- Versatile for dehydrating and other uses
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Cons:
- Specific compatibility with dual air fryers (check model)
- Might reduce space for larger items if all three tiers are used
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User Impressions: Customers love the added versatility and capacity these racks bring to their dual air fryers. They frequently mention how it makes cooking for larger groups or preparing full meals much easier. The improved airflow leading to crispier food is a consistent highlight.
See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What exactly makes an oil “best” for air frying chicken?
A1: The “best oil for air fryer chicken” primarily refers to an oil with a high smoke point (above 400°F). This prevents the oil from burning and imparting a bitter taste, ensuring your chicken gets crispy without tasting greasy or charred. Oils like avocado, grapeseed, or specific air fryer sprays are excellent choices due to their high smoke points.
Q2: Can I air fry chicken without any oil at all?
A2: While you can air fry chicken without oil, you’ll likely miss out on that desirable crispy skin and golden-brown exterior. A light coating of oil helps the seasoning stick, promotes browning, and ensures a truly satisfying crunch. For the juiciest, crispiest results, a little oil goes a long way.
Q3: How much oil should I use for air fryer chicken?
A3: Generally, you only need a very small amount—just enough to lightly coat the chicken pieces. For raw chicken, about 1-2 teaspoons of oil per pound of chicken is usually sufficient, or a few sprays if using a cooking spray. The goal is a thin, even layer, not saturation.
Q4: Is olive oil good for air frying chicken?
A4: Extra virgin olive oil has a relatively low smoke point (around 375°F), which might be too low for many air fryer recipes that call for 375-400°F. Regular or light olive oil has a higher smoke point, making it a better option than extra virgin, but still not as ideal as avocado or grapeseed oil for high-heat air frying.
Q5: What are some good alternatives to oil for achieving crispiness?
A5: Beyond oils, coating mixes like the Louisiana Fish Fry and Chicken Fry Mixes mentioned above are fantastic for creating a crispy exterior with minimal added oil. Some recipes also use a light dusting of cornstarch or baking powder mixed with spices to enhance crispiness.
Q6: How do I prevent my air-fried chicken from drying out?
A6: To prevent dry chicken, make sure not to overcrowd your air fryer basket, as this traps steam and prevents crisping. Also, avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and then remove it promptly. A light coating of oil also helps seal in moisture.
Q7: Can I marinate chicken before air frying, and how does that affect oil usage?
A7: Yes, marinating chicken before air frying adds incredible flavor and can help keep it juicy. If your marinade contains oil, you might not need to add much, if any, extra oil before air frying. If it’s an oil-free marinade, a light spray of a high smoke point oil can still help with browning and crispiness.