Here are two easy, flavorful ways to make roasted or air-fried chicken. I’ll give you a versatile seasoning blend you can use for either method.
🍗 Simple Seasoned Chicken (Works for Both)
Ingredients
- 1½–2 lbs chicken (thighs, drumsticks, breasts, or a whole spatchcocked chicken)
- 1½ tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
- Optional: ½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Pat chicken dry before seasoning — this helps crisp the skin.
🔥 Oven-Roasted Chicken
For pieces (thighs, breasts, etc.)
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss chicken with oil and seasonings.
- Place skin-side up on a lined baking sheet or rack.
- Roast:
- Thighs/drumsticks: 35–45 minutes
- Breasts: 25–35 minutes
- Cook until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest 5–10 minutes before serving.
For extra crispy skin, broil 2–3 minutes at the end.
🌬 Air-Fried Chicken
- Preheat air fryer to 375–380°F (190°C).
- Season chicken as above.
- Arrange in a single layer (don’t overcrowd).
- Cook:
- Thighs/drumsticks: 18–25 minutes
- Breasts: 15–20 minutes
- Flip halfway through.
- Cook until internal temp hits 165°F (74°C).
🔥 Flavor Variations
- Lemon Garlic: Add zest + squeeze of lemon.
- Spicy: Add ½ tsp cayenne or chili powder.
- Honey Glaze: Brush with honey during last 5 minutes.
- BBQ Style: Brush with BBQ sauce in last 5–7 minutes.
If you tell me what cut of chicken you’re using, I can give you a more exact time and seasoning style.
