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Craving takeout-style chicken but don’t want the extra oil? This Chinese Air Fryer Chicken Recipe is your new weeknight hero!
It’s crispy on the outside, juicy inside, and packed with bold Chinese flavors like soy, garlic, and chili. The best part? You can whip this up in your air fryer with hardly any fuss. Healthier than deep-fried and faster than oven-baked, this dish is made for busy nights when you need something tasty and comforting.
Why This Recipe Works
After testing countless marinades in my kitchen, I can confidently say this one hits all the marks: salty, savory, with a touch of sweetness and heat. It’s inspired by classic Chinese flavors you already know, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chili flakes, but simplified for home cooks.
Instead of deep-frying, the air fryer gives you that irresistible crispy skin without the mess of oil. That means less cleanup and fewer calories, but all the crunch you love.
And don’t worry if you’re new to cooking, this recipe is beginner-friendly. With clear steps and a short ingredient list, you’ll feel like a pro in no time. Just remember: always check that your chicken legs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving for food safety.
Ingredients & Equipment
Here’s what you’ll need for this easy Chinese air fryer chicken recipe:
Ingredients
- 4 chicken legs (drumstick + thigh attached)
- 2 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce – for deep color
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp vinegar (rice vinegar works best)
- 1 tbsp cooking oil (vegetable or sesame oil)
- 2 tbsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp sugar (brown or white)
💡 Beginner Tip: If you prefer a milder flavor, cut the chili flakes in half. Want it sweeter? Add an extra teaspoon of sugar.
Equipment
- Air fryer (any brand works — just adjust the basket size)
- Mixing bowl for marinade
- Tongs or spoon for flipping
- Meat thermometer (optional but recommended)
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps for perfectly crispy, juicy Chinese Air Fryer Chicken Recipe legs:
- Score the Chicken
Lightly cut slits on both sides of the chicken legs. This helps the marinade soak in and makes the skin extra crispy. - Make the Marinade
In a bowl, mix together soy sauces, oyster sauce, vinegar, cooking oil, chili flakes, and sugar. Stir until smooth. - Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken legs to the bowl and coat well. Use your hands or tongs to rub the marinade into the cuts.
👉 Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight in the fridge for maximum flavor. - Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 180°C / 375°F for 3 minutes. Preheating helps the skin crisp up. - Air Fry the Chicken
Place the chicken legs in a single layer in the basket. Air fry at 180°C / 375°F for 15 minutes. - Flip & Finish Cooking
Open the basket, flip the chicken, and air fry for another 10 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. - Check for Doneness
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, pierce near the bone — the juices should run clear. - Serve & Enjoy
Brush with a little extra oil for shine, then serve hot with steamed rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: Leave space between chicken pieces for even airflow.
- Want extra crispy skin? Brush on a tiny bit of oil before the second cooking round.
- Meal prep friendly: Marinate chicken in advance, store in a sealed bag, and cook fresh in the air fryer when ready.
FAQ – Chinese Air Fryer Chicken Recipe:
1. Do I need to preheat my air fryer?
Yes, preheating helps achieve crispier skin.
2. Can I use chicken thighs or wings instead?
Absolutely! Adjust cook time slightly — wings take less (about 18 minutes), thighs are similar to legs.
3. How do I keep the chicken crispy after cooking?
Serve immediately, or keep in the air fryer (turned off) for up to 5 minutes to hold the crunch.
4. Can I cook this recipe from frozen?
Yes, but add an extra 5–7 minutes to the cook time. Marinating from fresh gives better flavor, though.
5. What sides go well with this recipe?
Steamed jasmine rice, stir-fried bok choy, or simple fried noodles pair perfectly.
6. How should I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 180°C / 375°F for 5 minutes to restore crispiness.
Final Thoughts
This Chinese Air Fryer Chicken Recipe is proof that delicious doesn’t have to mean complicated. With a simple marinade and a trusty air fryer, you’ll get restaurant-quality chicken at home, crispy skin, juicy meat, and mouthwatering Chinese flavors.
Even if you’re brand new to cooking, this recipe is foolproof. So grab your air fryer, whip up that marinade, and let’s bring Chinese takeout vibes straight to your kitchen, minus the extra oil.
👉 If you try this recipe, drop a comment below, share it on social, or pin it for later. And if you’re looking for more quick air fryer meals, check out my TikTok account.
