Top picks right now: COSORI TurboBlaze 6-Qt and Ninja AF141 make chicken crisp and juicy.
I live in the US, in Austin, Texas, where weeknights are fast and football weekends scream for wings. I wanted fried-style chicken without a greasy kitchen, hot oil, or a long cleanup. An air fryer fixed all that for me. It cooks thighs, wings, and tenders with less oil, less smoke, and far less mess. If you want a model that nails crisp skin and keeps meat moist, you’re in the right place. Below I tested and compared the Best air fryer for chicken options in 2025, from compact basket units to big oven-style machines for family feasts.
COSORI TurboBlaze 6-Qt Air Fryer (9‑in‑1)
The COSORI TurboBlaze 6-Qt stands out for chicken. It has a wide 90°–450°F range and a premium ceramic-coated basket. That high top end helps render fat under the skin fast. I get glassy, shattering skin on wings without overcooking the meat. The 6-quart size fits four to five thighs, a pound of tenders, or up to two pounds of wings in one even layer. It tackles weeknight drumsticks, Saturday wing platters, and meal-prep chicken breasts with ease. Preheat is quick. The airflow is strong. Clean-up is simple thanks to the smooth ceramic surface.
This is a true 9-in-1. It air fries, roasts, bakes, broils, dehydrates, reheats, and more. I like Proof and Keep Warm for dough and holding dinner. For chicken, I use 400°F for 22–25 minutes on bone-in thighs, and 375°F for 18–20 minutes on breasts. I always confirm 165°F with a thermometer. The unit runs on standard 120V. It is a sweet spot for size and power. If you ask me today which model is the Best air fryer for chicken for most kitchens, this COSORI is right at the top of my list.
Pros:
- Up to 450°F for faster, crisper chicken skin
- Premium ceramic coating cleans fast and resists sticking
- 6-qt basket fits family-size batches in one layer
- 9-in-1 modes add real everyday value
- Quick preheat and even heat across the basket
Cons:
- Single basket means no double-zone cooking
- No viewing window to watch food without opening
- Takes a bit of counter space for small apartments
My Recommendation
If you want crisp skin and juicy meat with low fuss, this is for you. It is ideal for small to mid-size families, meal-prep fans, and anyone who wants one tool for wings, thighs, and tenders. The ceramic basket helps reduce sticking and cleanup time. I call it a top candidate for the Best air fryer for chicken because it balances power, size, and features at a fair price. Stock varies, so check availability.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Weeknight drumsticks | 450°F top end crisps skin fast |
| Quick wing nights | Strong airflow and even browning |
| Meal-prep breasts | Precise heat control keeps meat juicy |
Chefman TurboFry Touch 8‑Qt Air Fryer
The Chefman TurboFry Touch 8-Qt is a family-size workhorse. The extra capacity helps a lot on game day or when you cook for a crowd. I can spread out 3 pounds of wings or 6–7 bone-in thighs in a single layer. The one-touch presets are handy, and there’s a dedicated chicken preset to start fast. Auto shutoff adds peace of mind. The basket and other parts are nonstick and dishwasher-safe, which is great after saucy buffalo runs. Stainless steel accents give it a clean, modern look on the counter.
Heat is strong and even. I use 400°F for wings for 20–22 minutes. I shake halfway for an even crunch. For bone-in thighs, I set 400°F for 22–26 minutes. For cutlets or tenders, 380–390°F for 10–12 minutes works well. The big basket is the #1 reason I like this for chicken. You avoid crowding and the soggy spots that come with it. If you need the Best air fryer for chicken for large families or party trays, this Chefman is an easy pick in 2025.
Pros:
- 8-quart capacity fits big chicken batches
- Chicken preset and simple touch controls
- Dishwasher-safe parts for quick cleanup
- Strong heat for crisp skin and even color
- Good value for the size and features
Cons:
- No viewing window to check doneness
- Larger footprint needs counter space
- Nonstick needs gentle care to last
My Recommendation
Pick this if you cook for a family or host often. It shines with big wing nights and mixed batches. You get space, speed, and easy use. It’s a smart choice for anyone who needs the Best air fryer for chicken and wants a large basket without a big learning curve. Check stock and sales, since the 8-qt size sells fast during sports season.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Big family dinners | 8-qt basket reduces crowding |
| Game-day wings | Even browning across large batches |
| Quick cleanup | Dishwasher-safe basket and tray |
Ninja 5‑Qt 4‑in‑1 Air Fryer (AF141)
The Ninja 5-Qt AF141 is a compact, reliable pick. It hits 400°F and uses a crisper plate to boost airflow under the food. That small design detail helps a lot with chicken. Skin renders well, and juices stay put. I like it for 1–2 people. You can cook two to three thighs or a pound of wings in a single layer. It does air fry, roast, reheat, and dehydrate. It is simple to learn in minutes, and the results are steady. If you want the Best air fryer for chicken for a small home, start here.
For wings, I use 400°F for 18–20 minutes and shake once. For thighs, I set 400°F for 22 minutes, then check temp. For tenders, I set 380°F for 10–12 minutes. The basket is nonstick and easy to wipe. It slides in and out smoothly. I like that Ninja baskets tend to feel solid over time. This model is a great match for apartments, dorms, and light meal prep. It is also a strong backup air fryer if your kitchen already runs hot with other gear.
Pros:
- Compact footprint but strong airflow
- Crisper plate improves browning and texture
- Simple, fast controls for daily use
- Good durability for the price
- Great for singles and couples
Cons:
- Max temperature is 400°F, not 450°F
- 5-qt capacity is limited for big parties
- No window to watch the cook
My Recommendation
If you cook small batches most days, this Ninja hits the sweet spot. It is quiet, quick, and easy to love. I call it one of the Best air fryer for chicken picks for singles, couples, and students. It’s also perfect if you want to save counter space. Availability is strong year-round, and prices are steady.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Small kitchens | Compact size with solid power |
| Everyday wings | Crisper plate boosts airflow |
| Simple operation | Clear controls and quick preheat |
Chefman 10L Air Fryer Oven + Rotisserie
If you love rotisserie chicken, this Chefman oven-style unit is a winner. It includes a rotisserie accessory so you can roast a whole bird that turns and self-bastes. The 10L capacity easily handles family meals. The large viewing window lets you watch skin turn golden without opening the door. There are 17 presets. You can fry, roast, bake, dehydrate, and more. The racks let you cook wings on two levels, which helps on game days. It brings the air fryer, toaster oven, and rotisserie into one box.
Oven-style air fryers do have a slight learning curve. Preheating can take a bit longer than basket units. Cleaning means more parts, but the trays and tools help organize the cook. For a whole chicken, I go 360–375°F for 45–60 minutes depending on size, then rest the bird for 10 minutes. For wings on two racks, use 390–400°F and rotate the trays halfway. If you want the Best air fryer for chicken with rotisserie power, this Chefman should be at the top of your list.
Pros:
- Rotisserie accessory for juicy whole chicken
- Two-rack capacity for large wing batches
- Clear window to view progress
- 17 presets for wide versatility
- Good all-in-one oven alternative
Cons:
- Takes more counter space than a basket unit
- More parts to clean after big cooks
- Preheat can be slower than smaller models
My Recommendation
Choose this if rotisserie is your dream. It is great for families and anyone who wants to cook two trays at once. Whole birds come out tender with crisp skin. For those who want the Best air fryer for chicken with a viewing window and multiple racks, this is a smart buy. Check availability, as oven-style models can sell out before holidays.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Whole rotisserie chicken | Turning spit keeps meat juicy |
| Party wings | Two racks double your output |
| Hands-off cooking | Presets and window make it easy |
Emeril Lagasse 26‑Qt French Door Air Fryer
This Emeril Lagasse 26-Qt French Door Air Fryer is a full countertop oven with air fry power. The capacity is huge. You can air-fry two trays of wings, roast a big chicken, and still have room for sides. The French doors open wide, so you can slide in racks with one hand. There are 24 functions and 7 included accessories. That gives you a ton of ways to cook chicken: air fry, roast, rotisserie (with accessories), bake, broil, and more. It is a showpiece for busy kitchens.
With big ovens like this, heat management matters. Preheat to 400°F for wings and use the convection fan on high. Rotate trays halfway for even color. For a whole chicken, go 360–375°F and monitor with a thermometer until 165°F in the thickest part. Rest the meat to keep juices in. If you need the Best air fryer for chicken and also want a general-purpose oven, this model is tough to beat. It takes space, but it can replace several other appliances in one go.
Pros:
- Very large 26-qt capacity for family or party cooking
- French doors make loading and unloading easy
- 24 functions and 7 accessories for many tasks
- Even convection airflow across multiple trays
- Strong choice as a secondary or primary oven
Cons:
- Big footprint and heavy to move
- Higher price than compact units
- Learning curve to master all functions
My Recommendation
Pick this for big households, weekend hosts, or serious meal preppers. It handles party wings, sheet pan meals, and whole roasts. It’s a great Best air fryer for chicken if you want maximum space and features with a premium feel. Keep an eye on seasonal promos. Large-capacity ovens often get holiday discounts.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Large families | Massive 26-qt space and multiple trays |
| Entertaining | French doors and accessories add control |
| All-in-one oven | Replaces several appliances in one box |
Nutrichef 5.8‑Qt Clear‑Bowl Air Fryer
The Nutrichef 5.8-Qt Clear-Bowl Air Fryer brings something cool: a transparent fry bowl. You can watch chicken crisp up in real time without opening the unit. That helps prevent heat loss and undercooked spots. It has 8 preset modes and precise control for time and temperature. The 5.8-qt size suits two to three people well. I like it for wings, boneless thighs, and tenders. The visibility makes it easy to stop when the skin looks perfect. For new air fryer users, that confidence matters.
For wings, I use 390–400°F for 18–20 minutes and check color through the window. For thighs, 400°F for about 22 minutes does the job. For breasts, 375°F with a quick mist of oil yields moist meat. This model is also a nice teaching tool for kids learning to cook with supervision. If you want the Best air fryer for chicken and value a clear view, Nutrichef deserves a spot on your list. Just plan for a quick wipe after saucy cooks to keep the bowl looking new.
Pros:
- Transparent bowl shows doneness without opening
- 5.8-qt capacity suits small families
- Simple presets with precise time and temp
- Even airflow for crisp results
- Great for beginners and visual cooks
Cons:
- Clear bowl may show stains after heavy sauces
- Shape can be a bit bulky on some counters
- Fewer advanced modes than premium models
My Recommendation
Choose this if you want to watch the cook. It is friendly for new users and families who like to see food progress. The see-through design helps you nail the exact color on skin. It’s a fun choice for the Best air fryer for chicken if you value visual control and simple presets. Check for stock color options if looks matter to you.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Visual cooking | See-through bowl prevents guesswork |
| Learning the basics | Presets and clear view build confidence |
| Small families | 5.8-qt size fits daily portions |
FAQs Of Best air fryer for chicken
What size air fryer do I need for chicken?
For 1–2 people, 4–5 quarts works. For families and wing nights, go 6–8 quarts or an oven-style unit. Bigger space reduces crowding and helps crisp skin.
What temperature is best for crispy chicken skin?
Use 390–400°F for most cuts. For faster browning, models that reach 450°F can crisp skin even quicker. Always cook to 165°F internal temperature.
Can I cook a whole chicken in an air fryer?
Yes. Use a rotisserie oven-style model or a large basket if it fits. Cook at 360–375°F until the thickest part hits 165°F. Rest 10 minutes before carving.
How do I keep chicken juicy in an air fryer?
Do not overcook. Use a light oil mist. Brine or marinate if you can. Let meat rest a few minutes. Check temp with a thermometer.
Is a ceramic-coated basket better?
Ceramic coatings release food well and clean fast. They can last longer with gentle care. Avoid metal tools and harsh scrubbers.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
If you want the Best air fryer for chicken for most homes, get the COSORI TurboBlaze 6-Qt. It hits 450°F, cooks even, and cleans fast.
Need space for parties? The Chefman 8-Qt or the Emeril 26-Qt oven is great. For small kitchens, the Ninja AF141 is perfect. Any of these can be your Best air fryer for chicken in 2025.
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