Air Fryer Shredded Chicken

Crispy and flavorful Air Fryer Shredded Chicken recipe. Quick, healthy, and versatile. Perfect for tacos, salads, sandwiches, and more.

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Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Prep Time: 5

Cook Time: 15

Cooling: 5

Total Time: 25

Servings:

Author: Jennifer Stewart

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Brush both sides of the chicken breasts with olive oil or spray with cooking spray.
In a small mixing bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (180°C) for 3-5 minutes, and then brush the air fryer basket with oil or spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Cook the chicken for 12-15 minutes at 360°F (180°C), flipping halfway through, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a cutting board or mixing bowl and let them cool for about 5 minutes.
Using two forks or a hand mixer, shred the tender chicken into small, bite-sized shreds.

Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with oil and seasoning so it gets on all the chicken when it's shredded.
You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs but you will need to adjust the cook time.
Preheat the air fryer so the chicken cooks evenly and also reduces cooking time.
This is a simple seasoning mix but you can use your favorite one. I love a simple garlic and onion powder mix.
Adjust the temperature and time based on the specific model of air fryer you have. Different air fryers cook differently.
Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket. The chicken won't cook evenly or crispy.
Flip the chicken halfway through cooking to make sure they get evenly browned.
Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking so the juices can be reabsorbed. This keeps the chicken tender and juicy.