Air Fryer Buffalo Shredded Chicken

Air Fryer Buffalo Shredded Chicken — Are you looking for an easy, delicious, and healthy way to make buffalo shredded chicken? Look no further! This easy air fryer recipe lets you whip up the perfect meal in minutes.

We’ve cut down on unhealthy fats by using our favorite kitchen appliance instead of deep-frying, all while still getting that wonderful “buffalo” flavor. So crank up the heat and get ready to serve your family a scrumptious dish that will have them licking their chops!

The Best Air-Fried Shredded Buffalo Chicken

Embrace the culinary magic of the air fryer with this delectable Air Fryer Buffalo Shredded Chicken recipe. This modern kitchen gadget promises a healthier cooking approach with minimal oil usage and delivers an impeccable blend of crispy exterior and tender interior in every bite.

Infused with the fiery zest of Buffalo sauce and effortlessly transformed into mouthwatering shredded perfection, this chicken recipe is set to elevate your meal game. Whether you’re a die-hard Buffalo flavor enthusiast or just looking for a quick yet sumptuous dish, this recipe will satiate your cravings and impress your taste buds.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Shredded Buffalo Chicken

Are you looking for a delicious and simple meal? Do you have an air fryer but aren’t sure what to make with it? Then why not try this recipe for air fryer shredded buffalo chicken? It’s packed with flavor, is incredibly easy to make, and will be ready quickly.

In just 30 minutes or less, you can enjoy a savory meal that the whole family will love. We’ll provide all the ingredients needed and step-by-step instructions to whip up something amazing. So prepare your air fryer, because it’s time to create an unforgettable dinner!

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

• Chicken: Preferably boneless, skinless chicken breasts. These are lean and absorb the Buffalo sauce well.
• Buffalo Sauce: A high-quality store-bought Buffalo sauce like Frank’s RedHot Sauce is a favorite among many. Alternatively, you can make your own using hot sauce, butter, vinegar, and garlic powder.
• Olive Oil or Melted Butter: This will keep the chicken moist in the air fryer and help the Buffalo sauce stick to the chicken.
• Garlic Powder: To infuse an aromatic garlic flavor into the chicken.
• Onion Powder: Adds a subtle savory note to complement the Buffalo sauce.
• Kosher Salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the dish’s overall flavor.
• Black Pepper: Introduces a mild heat and piquant touch.

Optional Toppings and Mix-ins:

• Blue Cheese or Feta Crumbles: Introduces a tangy counterpoint to the spicy Buffalo sauce.
• Chopped Fresh Cilantro or Parsley: For a fresh, herby touch.
• Chopped Celery: Adds a refreshing crunch and is a traditional accompaniment to Buffalo flavors.

How To Make Buffalo Shredded Chicken In Air Fryer

Are you searching for a delicious and comforting meal without spending too much time in the kitchen? Look no further! Buffalo shredded chicken cooked in an Air Fryer will surely be your family’s new favorite. With less mess, easier clean-up, and genuinely scrumptious results every single time, you’ll definitely want to try out this mouth-wateringly delicious recipe!

Be sure to keep reading to learn the secret behind making perfect buffalo shredded chicken in an air fryer – think of all the savory dishes you can create!

• Preparation:
  • Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This ensures that the seasoning adheres better to the chicken.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil (or melted butter), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
• Marinate the Chicken:
  • Toss the chicken breasts in the mixture until they are well-coated.
  • Let them marinate for about 15-30 minutes. If you have more time, marinating in the fridge for a few hours can result in deeper flavor.
• Air Fryer Setup:
  • Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees F (190°C). If your air fryer has no preheat setting, run it empty at the mentioned temperature for about 5 minutes.
  • Lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
• Cooking:
  • Place the marinated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they’re not touching or overcrowded. You might need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
  • Cook for about 22-25 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through. Cooking time can vary based on the size of the chicken pieces and specific air fryer models, so adjust accordingly.
• Check for Doneness:
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
• Shredding:
  • Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes.
  • Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
• Sauce Time:
  • In a large mixing bowl, toss the shredded chicken with Buffalo sauce until it’s well-coated.
• Serving:
  • Transfer the Buffalo shredded chicken to a serving dish. Optionally, garnish with blue cheese crumbles, chopped fresh herbs, and celery.
  • Serve hot alongside your favorite dips, or use it as a filling for sandwiches, tacos, salads, and more.

Pro Tips For The Best Shredded Buffalo Chicken Air Fryer

Achieving that perfect balance of spice, moisture, and texture in your Air Fryer Shredded Buffalo Chicken can be a breeze with these pro tips:

• Quality Chicken: Always start with fresh, high-quality chicken. The breast is the most popular choice due to its lean texture, but thighs can yield a juicier result. Make sure your chicken is defrosted thoroughly if you’re using frozen pieces.
• Marinate for Flavor: While a quick toss in seasonings is okay, allowing the chicken to marinate for a few hours (or even overnight) will infuse it with more depth of flavor.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Ensure the chicken pieces don’t touch each other in the air fryer. Overcrowding can cause uneven cooking and prevent the chicken from getting that desired crispy exterior.
• Temperature Check: Invest in a good meat thermometer. Chicken should always be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety. This ensures you have perfectly cooked chicken that’s juicy but not overdone.
• The Right Buffalo Sauce: Not all Buffalo sauces are created equal. Go for a trusted brand that offers your palate the right blend of spice and tanginess.
• Add Butter: Mix some melted butter into your Buffalo sauce before tossing it with the shredded chicken. It adds richness and helps cut some of the sharpness of the hot sauce.
• Shred While Warm: Chicken is easiest to shred when fresh from the air fryer and still warm. Two forks work well; you can use a stand mixer with the paddle attachment for larger quantities.
• Reheating: If you have leftovers, the air fryer is perfect for reheating! A few minutes at a lower temperature (around 300°F or 150°C) can revive the crispy texture and warmth of the chicken without drying it out.
• Versatility: Shredded Buffalo chicken can be used in a variety of dishes – from sandwiches and wraps to pizzas and salads. Consider making a bigger batch for multiple meals throughout the week.
• Personalize: Everyone’s heat tolerance is different. Don’t hesitate to adjust the amount of Buffalo sauce to your liking. You can also add ingredients like honey or brown sugar if you prefer a sweeter heat.

Remember, the beauty of cooking at home is the ability to customize dishes to your liking. Don’t be afraid to experiment a bit with your Air Fryer Shredded Buffalo Chicken to find your perfect blend of flavors and textures.

Why use an air fryer for Buffalo Shredded Chicken?

• The air fryer offers a healthier cooking method by using minimal oil. It gives the chicken a crispy exterior while retaining a juicy interior, enhancing the overall texture.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

• Yes, chicken thighs can be used and might yield a juicier result. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs might take a bit longer than breasts.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out in the air fryer?

• Marinating the chicken, ensuring it’s not overcrowded in the basket, and checking the internal temperature to avoid overcooking will help keep the chicken moist.

Can I use store-bought Buffalo sauce?

• Absolutely. Choose a high-quality Buffalo sauce that you prefer. The amount can be adjusted based on how spicy you want your chicken.

How long can I store leftover Buffalo Shredded Chicken?

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the air fryer or microwave before consuming.

Can I freeze the cooked Buffalo Shredded Chicken?

• Yes, once cooled, place the chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat before eating.

How do I ensure even cooking in the air fryer?

• Make sure chicken pieces are of uniform size and not touching in the air fryer. Cooking in batches might be necessary to avoid overcrowding.

What can I serve with Buffalo Shredded Chicken?

• This chicken pairs well with blue cheese or ranch dressing, celery sticks, carrot sticks, or even atop salads, sandwiches, or tacos.

Is there a vegetarian alternative?

• For a vegetarian twist, you can use jackfruit or tofu as a substitute, marinating and cooking similarly in the air fryer.

How can I adjust the spice level of the dish?

• Control the spice by adjusting the amount of Buffalo sauce or by blending it with ingredients like honey or melted butter for a milder flavor.

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