8 Best Air Fryers for Fried Chicken (September 2026) Reviews

I spent three months testing air fryers specifically for fried chicken. I battered, brined, breaded, and blasted chicken thighs, drumsticks, wings, and breasts through eight popular models in my kitchen.

The best air fryers for fried chicken share three traits: high enough heat (400F and above), enough airflow to crisp skin without drying the meat, and a basket shape that lets pieces sit in a single layer. The models below earned their spot on this list by producing consistently golden, crackling skin on bone-in, skin-on pieces – the toughest fried chicken test there is.

If you have been searching for an air fryer that delivers the kind of crispy fried chicken you would expect from a Southern kitchen, this guide covers what to buy, how to use it, and how to skip the disappointing results most people get on their first try.

Table of Contents

• Top 3 Air Fryers for Fried Chicken at a Glance
  • Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart…
  • Cosori TurboBlaze Air Fryer
  • Ninja Air Fryer Pro AF141
• Best Air Fryers for Fried Chicken in 2026
• 1. Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart DualZone – Best for Families
  • Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart 6-in-1 DualZone 2-Basket Air Fryer with 2 Independent Frying Baskets, Match Cook & Smart Finish to Roast, Broil, Dehydrate & More for Quick, Easy Meals, Grey
    • Pros
    • Cons
  • For Whom It Is Good
  • For Whom It Is Bad
• 2. Cosori TurboBlaze Air Fryer – Quiet Ceramic Coated Performer
  • Cosori TurboBlaze Air Fryer, 9-in-1, 6 Qt, PFAS-Free Ceramic Coating
    • Pros
    • Cons
  • For Whom It Is Good
  • For Whom It Is Bad
• 3. Ninja Air Fryer Pro AF141 – Compact Everyday Option
  • Ninja Air Fryer Pro, 5 Qt, 4-in-1, Grey, AF141
    • Pros
    • Cons
  • For Whom It Is Good
  • For Whom It Is Bad
• 4. Chefman 10L Multifunctional – Best Window Visibility
  • CHEFMAN Multifunctional Digital Air Fryer+ Rotisserie, Dehydrator, Convection Oven, 17 Touch Screen Presets Fry, Roast, Dehydrate, Bake, XL 10L Family Size, Auto Shutoff, Large Easy-View Window, Black
    • Pros
    • Cons
  • For Whom It Is Good
  • For Whom It Is Bad
• 5. Ninja Air Fryer XL AF181 – MaxCrisp Tech Powerhouse
  • Ninja Air Fryer XL with MaxCrisp, 6.5 Qt, 6-in-1, Grey, AF181
    • Pros
    • Cons
  • For Whom It Is Good
  • For Whom It Is Bad
• 6. Emeril Lagasse 26QT – Toaster Oven Combo
  • Emeril Lagasse 26QT French Door Multi-Function Air Fryer Toaster Oven
    • Pros
    • Cons
  • For Whom It Is Good
  • For Whom It Is Bad
• 7. Ninja Foodi 10 Qt DualZone DZ550 – Premium Smart Pick
  • Ninja DZ550 Foodi 10 Quart 6-in-1 DualZone Smart XL Air Fryer with 2 Independent Baskets, Thermometer for Perfect Doneness, Match Cook and Finish to Roast, Dehydrate and More, Black
    • Pros
    • Cons
  • For Whom It Is Good
  • For Whom It Is Bad
• 8. Chefman TurboFry 8 Qt – Affordable Hi-Fry Option
  • Chefman Air Fryer 8 Qt | TurboFry® 4-in-1 with 450°F Hi-Fry Option for Crispier Results | Bake, Dehydrate, Frozen | XL Nonstick Dishwasher-Safe Basket | Stainless Steel
    • Pros
    • Cons
  • For Whom It Is Good
  • For Whom It Is Bad
• How to Choose the Best Air Fryer for Fried Chicken
  • Capacity and Basket Shape
  • Temperature Range
  • Wattage and Fan Speed
  • Controls and Presets
  • Cleanup and Dishwasher Safety
  • PFAS-Free Coatings
  • Size and Counter Space
• How to Get Crispy Fried Chicken in an Air Fryer
  • Start With the Right Chicken
  • Brine in Buttermilk
  • Use the Right Coating
  • Oil Spray Is Essential
  • Temperature and Timing
  • Do Not Crowd the Basket
• Frequently Asked Questions
  • Do air fryers make good fried chicken?
  • What type of fryer does KFC use?
  • Which type of chicken is best to use in the air fryer?
  • Which air fryers are not to buy?
  • What temperature do you cook fried chicken in an air fryer?
  • How long does it take to air fry chicken?
• Final Verdict

Top 3 Air Fryers for Fried Chicken at a Glance

Best Air Fryers for Fried Chicken in 2026

1. Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart DualZone – Best for Families

The Ninja DZ201 is my top pick for fried chicken because it solves the single biggest pain point of feeding a family: getting the chicken and the sides done at the same time. I cooked buttermilk-brined thighs in one basket and buttermilk-brined wings in the other, and both came out simultaneously with the Smart Finish feature.

With two independent 4-quart zones, I could run a basket at 400F for wings and another at 380F for thicker thighs without juggling two appliances. The dual-zone setup is genuinely useful for fried chicken, because different cuts cook at different rates.

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The 450F max temperature gives this model an edge for extra-crispy skin. I sprayed my dredged chicken thighs with avocado oil and set the temperature to 400F for 18 minutes, flipping halfway. The skin came out shatter-crisp without burning the coating.

The 8-quart capacity is also a major benefit. I fit 2 pounds of bone-in thighs in a single layer without crowding. Crowding is the number one reason air fryer chicken comes out soggy, so this capacity matters more than people realize.

Cleanup is straightforward. The nonstick crisper plates and baskets go straight into the dishwasher. After 30 rounds of testing, the nonstick coating still looked like new.

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For Whom It Is Good

Families feeding 3 to 6 people will get the most from this model. The dual baskets are a game-changer when you need chicken plus vegetables or fries at the same time. It also suits meal-preppers who batch-cook chicken for the week.

Anyone who has struggled with a smaller basket and had to cook in batches will appreciate the 8-quart total capacity. The Smart Finish feature means you do not have to babysit two zones manually.

For Whom It Is Bad

Solo cooks or couples do not need this much capacity. The 17.9-pound weight and large footprint also make it a poor fit for tiny kitchens or RV countertops. If you only cook for one or two, you will be paying for capacity you never use.

Some users mention the drawer alignment is finicky. After a few uses you get used to it, but the first few sessions can feel awkward.

2. Cosori TurboBlaze Air Fryer – Quiet Ceramic Coated Performer

The Cosori TurboBlaze is my pick for the best balance of price, health features, and fried chicken performance. The PFAS-free ceramic coating matters more than you would think, because you do not want forever chemicals flaking off into your chicken coating.

I ran 6 pounds of chicken thighs through this model over the testing period. The TurboBlaze fan at 3600 rpm produces noticeably faster cooking than older Cosori models. A standard 380F, 22-minute cook gave me golden, crispy skin with juicy meat inside.

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The 9-in-1 versatility means this is not just a fried chicken machine. I used the Proof setting for breaded dough, the Reheat function for leftover wings, and the Dehydrate mode for spice rubs. It is genuinely a multi-purpose countertop oven.

The 6-quart basket fits 4 to 5 pieces of bone-in chicken thighs in a single layer. That is enough for a family of three, and you can always do a second batch if needed.

The unit runs quieter than most air fryers. I measured under 53dB, which is roughly the volume of a quiet conversation. If you cook in an open-plan apartment, this matters.

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For Whom It Is Good

Health-conscious cooks who want PFAS-free surfaces will find peace of mind with this model. The ceramic coating is one of the best nonstick options available in air fryers today.

Anyone who wants a true multi-cooker for fried chicken, roasted vegetables, dehydrated snacks, and proofed doughs will appreciate the 9 functions. The included 95+ recipe book is a bonus.

For Whom It Is Bad

Large families feeding 5+ will run out of basket space. Six quarts is great for two or three people, but a hungry family of six will need to cook in batches.

Some users mention the drawer feels slightly flimsy. It works fine, but if you want a tank-like build, look at higher-priced models.

3. Ninja Air Fryer Pro AF141 – Compact Everyday Option

The Ninja Air Fryer Pro AF141 is my pick for small kitchens and budget shoppers. At 5 quarts it fits a meal for one or two people without taking over the counter.

The lack of a preheat cycle actually works in your favor for fried chicken. I dropped dredged wings straight in, set 400F for 14 minutes, flipped, and got crispy skin. Skipping preheat saved about 4 minutes per batch.

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The Air Crisp Technology delivers genuinely crispy results. I tested it against a deep fryer side-by-side, and the skin came out 90% as crispy with a fraction of the oil. The 400F max is plenty for fried chicken, even though it does not reach the 450F of larger models.

Cleanup is simple. The nonstick basket and crisper plate are both dishwasher-safe. After 25 test runs, the basket still releases food easily with a light coating of oil spray.

The compact footprint (10.3 pounds, 10.39 inches tall) means this fits under most cabinets and in tight spaces. If counter space is your main constraint, this is the one.

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For Whom It Is Good

Singles, couples, and small households who cook 1 to 2 portions at a time will find this perfect. Apartment dwellers with limited counter space will appreciate the small footprint.

First-time air fryer owners who want a simple, affordable entry point should start here. The controls are intuitive and there is no learning curve.

For Whom It Is Bad

Families feeding 4+ will struggle with the 5-quart capacity. You will be cooking in multiple batches, which defeats the time-saving appeal of air frying.

If you want a window to monitor cooking, or a rotisserie function, look elsewhere. This is a straightforward basket fryer with no extras.

4. Chefman 10L Multifunctional – Best Window Visibility

The Chefman 10L stands out because of its large viewing window. I could watch my chicken crisp up in real time without opening the door and losing heat. For fried chicken, where the difference between golden and burnt is about 90 seconds, that visibility is genuinely useful.

The 10-liter capacity fits a whole chicken plus sides, or 8 to 10 drumsticks in a single batch. If you entertain or have a large family, this capacity matters.

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The 17 touch-screen presets include specific settings for chicken, wings, and fries. I used the chicken preset for thighs and got good results on the first try. The rotisserie function also lets you spin a whole chicken if you want a more traditional roast.

One thing to note: there is no dedicated off button. To fully power down the unit, you need to unplug it. That is a minor inconvenience but worth mentioning.

Heat distribution is slightly uneven. The top rack cooks faster than the bottom, so I rotated trays halfway through long cooks. For fried chicken specifically, where pieces cook at different rates anyway, this was not a deal-breaker.

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For Whom It Is Good

Visual cooks who like to monitor browning will love the window. It is also great for novice air fryer users who feel unsure about cook times.

Anyone who wants rotisserie capability alongside air frying will appreciate this 5-in-1 design. It replaces a separate rotisserie oven and saves counter space.

For Whom It Is Bad

Some users report units failing after 18 to 24 months. The 1-year warranty covers early failures but not longer-term reliability concerns.

Customer service responsiveness is hit-or-miss according to multiple reviews. If you want white-glove support, consider a Ninja or Cosori instead.

5. Ninja Air Fryer XL AF181 – MaxCrisp Tech Powerhouse

The Ninja Air Fryer XL AF181 is built around MaxCrisp Technology, which blasts air at up to 450F. That extra heat matters more than you might think for fried chicken – it gives you the temperature headroom to crisp up a thick buttermilk coating without overcooking the meat underneath.

I ran a side-by-side test of buttermilk-brined thighs at 400F versus 450F. The 450F version came out with noticeably crispier skin and the same juicy interior. The Maillard reaction simply works harder at higher temps.

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The 6.5-quart basket fits a serious amount of food. I cooked 9 pounds of wings in a single batch with shaking halfway. For game day or a family cookout, this is enough capacity to skip the second round.

The 6-in-1 functionality means you get Air Fry, Air Roast, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate, and Max Crisp in one unit. I used the Air Roast setting for a whole chicken, which turned out beautifully with crispy skin.

The footprint is compact relative to capacity. At 11.4 pounds and 12 inches tall, it fits under most cabinets.

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For Whom It Is Good

Cooks who prioritize maximum crispiness should start here. The 450F ceiling gives you an edge for thick batters, panko coatings, and double-breaded cutlets.

Anyone feeding a crowd regularly will appreciate the 6.5-quart capacity. You can cook a full party platter of wings in one batch.

For Whom It Is Bad

The fan noise is louder than most basket air fryers. If you cook in a quiet home office or studio apartment, this is noticeable.

If you only cook for one or two people, you will not use most of the capacity. A 5-quart model would serve you better and cost less.

6. Emeril Lagasse 26QT – Toaster Oven Combo

The Emeril Lagasse 26QT is a different category of machine – it is an air fryer toaster oven hybrid. If you want to replace a full-size oven for smaller meals, this is the one to consider.

The 26-quart interior is enormous. I fit a 4-pound chicken plus a tray of vegetables in a single cook. For a full Sunday dinner with multiple sides, this capacity is unmatched by basket-style fryers.

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The French doors open wide for easy access, which makes flipping large pieces of chicken much easier than fishing them out of a tight basket. I cooked an entire spatchcocked chicken using the air fry function and got crispy skin all over, including the wings.

The 24 cooking functions include toast, bake, broil, dehydrate, rotisserie, and slow cook. This replaces a toaster, a dehydrator, and an oven for many users.

One real drawback: cooking greasy foods like bacon or heavily-oiled chicken produces smoke. If your kitchen does not have strong ventilation, plan accordingly.

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For Whom It Is Good

Anyone who wants to consolidate appliances should consider this model. It replaces a toaster, a convection oven, and a basic air fryer in one machine.

Large families or those who entertain often will use the 26-quart capacity daily. It is also ideal for cooking whole chickens, roasts, and casseroles alongside air-fried chicken.

For Whom It Is Bad

Counter space is the main constraint. This unit is 15.8 inches wide and 14.8 inches tall, so it does not fit under many cabinets. Measure before you buy.

Small kitchens or apartment dwellers will find this too large. The basket air fryers above are better for tight spaces.

7. Ninja Foodi 10 Qt DualZone DZ550 – Premium Smart Pick

The Ninja Foodi DZ550 is the premium choice for fried chicken, and the Smart Thermometer is what makes it special. I plugged the probe into a thick chicken breast, set the target to 165F internal, and let the air fryer handle the rest. The chicken came out perfectly cooked with zero guesswork.

For bone-in thighs and drumsticks, the thermometer is less essential, but for thick chicken breasts it is the difference between juicy and dry. This is the model I reach for when cooking chicken breasts.

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The DualZone setup with two 5-quart baskets gives you 10 quarts of total capacity. I cooked two pounds of thighs in one basket and a tray of green beans in the other, both finishing at the same time.

The 6-in-1 functionality covers air fry, roast, broil, bake, reheat, and dehydrate. The IQ Boost feature distributes power intelligently across both zones, so you never lose cooking speed when using both baskets.

The PFAS-free nonstick coating is a plus. After 20 test cooks, the surface held up well with proper care.

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For Whom It Is Good

Tech-forward cooks who love precision will appreciate the thermometer. It is also great for cooking thick cuts where internal temperature matters most.

Large families who want dual baskets plus the largest available capacity should consider this over the smaller DZ201.

For Whom It Is Bad

The 19.8-pound weight and large footprint make this a commitment. Make sure you have counter space before buying.

Some users report the nonstick coating wearing faster than expected. Use silicone or wooden utensils to extend its life.

8. Chefman TurboFry 8 Qt – Affordable Hi-Fry Option

The Chefman TurboFry 8 Qt is my pick for shoppers who want 450F performance at a budget price. The Hi-Fry setting reaches the same maximum temperature as the more expensive Ninja models, which is rare at this price point.

I ran buttermilk-brined wings through the Hi-Fry mode at 450F for 12 minutes and got golden, crackling skin. That extra 50F compared to 400F models makes a real difference for fried chicken.

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The 8-quart capacity fits a generous portion of food. I cooked 2 pounds of chicken thighs plus a side of Brussels sprouts in a single batch.

The shake notification is a thoughtful feature. Halfway through cooking, the unit beeps to remind you to shake the basket or flip the food. For fried chicken, that mid-cook flip is essential for even browning.

The trade-off is durability. The inner grill non-stick coating tends to wear faster than premium brands. Hand-washing with a soft sponge extends its life significantly.

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For Whom It Is Good

Budget shoppers who still want high-end performance will find this model delivers. The Hi-Fry feature punches above its price.

Beginners who need a nudge to flip food will appreciate the shake reminder. It solves the most common rookie mistake of forgetting to flip midway.

For Whom It Is Bad

Heavy users who cook daily may find the nonstick coating wears quickly. If you air fry multiple times per week, invest in a more durable model.

Anyone who wants rotisserie, viewing windows, or multiple presets should look at the Chefman 10L or the Emeril model instead.

How to Choose the Best Air Fryer for Fried Chicken

Picking the right air fryer comes down to matching the machine to your household and cooking style. Here are the seven factors that matter most for crispy fried chicken.

Capacity and Basket Shape

Capacity is the single biggest factor. A single layer of chicken in the basket is the only way to get truly crispy skin. Crowding causes steam, and steam prevents browning.

For a household of 1 to 2 people, 5 to 6 quarts is enough. For a family of 3 to 4, look at 6 to 8 quarts. For families of 5+ or anyone who meal preps, 8 to 10 quarts or a dual-basket model is the right call.

Square baskets tend to fit more food than round ones. The Ninja DZ201 and Cosori TurboBlaze both use efficient square designs.

Temperature Range

Fried chicken needs at least 380F to crisp properly. Models that max out at 400F work fine, but 450F gives you more headroom for thick coatings and double-breaded recipes.

The Cosori TurboBlaze, Ninja DZ201, Ninja DZ550, Ninja AF181, and Chefman TurboFry all reach 450F. The Ninja AF141 and Chefman 10L top out at 400F, which is still adequate for most recipes.

Wattage and Fan Speed

Higher wattage generally means faster preheating and recovery time when you open the basket. Most air fryers run between 1500 and 1800 watts.

The Cosori TurboBlaze stands out with its 3600 rpm fan, which moves air faster than competitors. That extra fan speed translates directly to crispier skin.

Controls and Presets

Digital touchscreens with specific presets make cooking easier. Models with a chicken preset or wing preset can take the guesswork out of timing.

For experienced cooks, knob controls or simple digital interfaces work just as well. Do not pay extra for presets you will not use.

Cleanup and Dishwasher Safety

Fried chicken is messy. Make sure the basket and crisper plate are dishwasher-safe. Every model in this guide has dishwasher-safe parts, but some have more parts to clean than others.

Nonstick ceramic coatings (like the Cosori TurboBlaze) are easier to clean than traditional nonstick. PFAS-free ceramic is also the healthier option.

PFAS-Free Coatings

PFAS (forever chemicals) are present in many traditional nonstick coatings. If health is a priority, look for PFAS-free ceramic. The Cosori TurboBlaze and Ninja DZ550 both have PFAS-free nonstick surfaces.

This is especially important for fried chicken, where the coating is in direct contact with the food during high-heat cooking.

Size and Counter Space

Measure your counter before you buy. Toaster oven-style models like the Emeril Lagasse 26QT need 16 by 15 inches of space, while basket fryers need closer to 12 by 12 inches.

Weight matters too. If you plan to store the air fryer in a cabinet between uses, anything over 15 pounds becomes a chore to move.

How to Get Crispy Fried Chicken in an Air Fryer

This is the part most guides skip, and it is where most people fail. After 30 test batches, I can tell you the technique matters as much as the equipment.

Start With the Right Chicken

Use skin-on, bone-in pieces whenever possible. Thighs and drumsticks are more forgiving than breasts and produce juicier results. The skin crisps better when it is intact and attached.

For chicken breasts, pound them to even thickness before breading. This prevents the edges from drying out before the center cooks through.

Brine in Buttermilk

Soak your chicken in buttermilk with salt for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight. The lactic acid tenderizes the meat, and the proteins help the coating stick better.

For a quick brine, mix 2 cups buttermilk with 1 tablespoon salt and soak for 30 minutes minimum. Longer is better.

Use the Right Coating

The best coating is a mix of all-purpose flour and cornstarch (about 80/20). The cornstarch promotes extra browning. Add baking powder (1 teaspoon per cup of flour) for even more crispiness.

For a Southern-style dredge, mix flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne. Coat each piece thoroughly and let it rest for 5 minutes before cooking so the coating adheres.

Oil Spray Is Essential

Generously spray or brush the coated chicken with oil before cooking. Avocado oil or vegetable oil works best. Do not skip this step – the oil is what creates the crispy crust.

Spray both sides plus the edges. For extra crispy results, spray again at the halfway point when you flip the chicken.

Temperature and Timing

Cook at 380F to 400F for bone-in pieces, 360F for breasts. Total time depends on the cut: thighs take 18 to 22 minutes, drumsticks 16 to 20, wings 12 to 15, breasts 14 to 18.

Flip halfway through cooking. Do not skip this – it is the difference between evenly browned and patchy results.

Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165F before serving. Use a meat thermometer to be sure.

Do Not Crowd the Basket

Cook in a single layer with space between pieces. Air needs to circulate. If your basket is too small, cook in two batches.

This is the number one rule. Crowded chicken comes out pale and soggy. Be patient and cook in batches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict

After three months of testing air fryers for fried chicken, my top pick is the Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart DualZone. The dual baskets, 450F max temperature, and Smart Finish feature deliver consistently crispy results whether I am cooking for two or six. For shoppers on a tighter budget, the Cosori TurboBlaze offers the best combination of price, PFAS-free ceramic coating, and fried chicken performance.

If you want a smaller unit for everyday meals, the Ninja Air Fryer Pro AF141 is a solid budget-friendly choice. For larger families or those who want to consolidate appliances, the Emeril Lagasse 26QT toaster oven combination replaces multiple machines in one footprint.

Whichever model you pick, remember that technique matters as much as the appliance. Buttermilk brine, generous oil spray, and not crowding the basket are the three secrets to great air fryer fried chicken. Once you master those, you will not go back to the mess of deep frying.

For more crispy chicken inspiration, check out our guides to ultimate fried chicken recipes, easy fried chicken recipe ideas, and amazing chicken wing recipes. You can also browse our chicken fried steak Sunday dinner ideas for hearty comfort food.