Air fryer chicken recipes can seriously simplify healthy cooking without compromising on flavor. 

These dishes use minimal oil and pack plenty of taste while keeping calories low. They’re perfect for anyone trying to shed a few pounds while still enjoying a hearty meal.

Besides this, each recipe uses common ingredients and easy techniques to create a satisfying, nutrient-rich dish that supports weight loss.

Below are 25 carefully chosen air fryer chicken recipes that have been designed for weight loss. 

1. Air Fryer Herb-Roasted Chicken Breast

This classic recipe is all about simplicity. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts get a boost of flavor from a blend of dried herbs, garlic powder, and a splash of olive oil.

Ingredients

• 1 chicken breast (about 6 oz)
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
2. Brush the chicken with olive oil and sprinkle evenly with rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken in the air fryer basket and cook for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through until cooked through.

This dish is lean, flavorful, and pairs well with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

 

2. Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken

A zesty twist on chicken, this recipe uses lemon juice and cracked pepper to brighten up the lean protein. Perfect for a light yet tasty dinner!

Ingredients

• 1 chicken breast (6 oz)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1/4 tsp cracked black pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp olive oil

Directions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
2. Marinate the chicken with lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and cracked pepper.
3. Cook in the air fryer for 15 minutes until the chicken is tender and juicy.

Serve with a side of roasted asparagus or a simple quinoa salad for extra fiber.

 

3. Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

These chicken tenders are lightly coated with whole-wheat breadcrumbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra crunch without too many calories.

Ingredients

• 8 oz chicken tenderloins
• 1/2 cup whole-wheat breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp olive oil spray

Directions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
2. Combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Coat the chicken tenders in the mixture and lightly spray with olive oil.
4. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through until golden and crisp.

These tenders work great as a snack or alongside a crisp green salad.

 

4. Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Thighs

Chicken thighs are flavorful and juicy. This air fryer version uses a simple spice rub for a crispy exterior without deep frying.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F.
2. Rub the chicken thighs with olive oil and season with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook for 14 minutes, flipping halfway, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

This recipe is rich in flavor and pairs well with roasted Brussels sprouts or a side of brown rice.

 

5. Air Fryer Spicy Buffalo Chicken

Turn up the heat with this spicy buffalo chicken recipe that packs a tangy kick. A low-calorie alternative to classic wings, perfect for a lighter take on game day.

Ingredients

• 1 chicken breast (6 oz) cut into strips
• 1 tbsp hot sauce
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Salt to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
2. Toss the chicken strips with hot sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, and salt.
3. Place in the air fryer and cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Pair with a side of celery sticks and a light yogurt dip for extra crunch.

 

6. Air Fryer Chicken Fajitas

Chicken fajitas are a favorite for a reason. This recipe uses lean chicken breast, bell peppers, and onions for a satisfying, low-calorie meal that’s ready in minutes.

Ingredients

• 1 chicken breast (6 oz), sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Toss the chicken, peppers, and onions with olive oil and spices.
2. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
3. Air fry the mixture for 10 minutes, stirring halfway through until the chicken is cooked and vegetables are tender.

Serve with whole-grain tortillas or a side of brown rice.

 

7. Air Fryer Chicken Kebabs

Skewered chicken is not only fun to eat but also super versatile. Marinated in a light mix of lemon and herbs, these kebabs are both lean and delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 chicken breast (6 oz), cut into cubes
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1/4 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Combine chicken cubes, bell pepper, and zucchini with lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Thread the chicken and vegetables onto skewers.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F and cook the kebabs for 10-12 minutes, rotating halfway through.

These kebabs are great on their own or with a side of a light salad.

 

8. Air Fryer Cajun Chicken Drumsticks

For a spicy twist, Cajun chicken drumsticks are seasoned with a blend of spices that add heat without extra calories. Drumsticks are versatile and juicy when cooked right.

Ingredients

• 2 chicken drumsticks
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Salt to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 390°F.
2. Rub the drumsticks with olive oil and coat with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and salt.
3. Air fry for 15 minutes, turning halfway until the skin is crispy and meat is fully cooked.

Serve these with a side of steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad.

 

9. Air Fryer Honey Mustard Chicken

Honey mustard chicken is a perfect balance of tangy and sweet. This recipe uses a light drizzle of honey mixed with mustard to keep things interesting yet low in calories.

Ingredients

• 1 chicken breast (6 oz)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp honey
• 1 tsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
2. Mix Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Coat the chicken breast with the mixture and air fry for 15 minutes, flipping once.

This dish goes well with steamed broccoli or a fresh cucumber salad.

 

10. Air Fryer Balsamic Chicken

Balsamic vinegar adds a rich depth of flavor without extra calories. This recipe is quick, easy, and uses a light marinade to create a tender, flavorful chicken dish.

Ingredients

• 1 chicken breast (6 oz)
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1/4 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
2. Marinate the chicken in balsamic vinegar, olive oil, basil, salt, and pepper for 10 minutes.
3. Air fry for 15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Serve with a side of mixed greens or roasted cherry tomatoes.

 

11. Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan (Light Version)

Enjoy a lighter twist on a classic Italian favorite. This version of chicken Parmesan uses a modest amount of cheese and a whole-wheat breadcrumb coating for a guilt-free delight.

Ingredients

• 1 chicken breast (6 oz)
• 1/2 cup whole-wheat breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup marinara sauce
• 1/4 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp olive oil spray

Directions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
2. Coat the chicken with whole-wheat breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, then top with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
4. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the cheese melts.

This dish works well with a side of steamed spinach or a light salad.

 

12. Air Fryer Chicken Satay

Chicken satay skewers get a low-calorie makeover with a marinade that infuses a rich flavor profile. Serve these with a light peanut dipping sauce for extra taste.

Ingredients

• 1 chicken breast (6 oz), cut into strips
• 1 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium)
• 1 tsp lime juice
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped green onions for garnish

Directions

1. Toss the chicken strips in soy sauce, lime juice, ground ginger, salt, and pepper.
2. Thread onto skewers.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F and cook for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4. Garnish with green onions before serving.

Pair with a light cucumber salad or steamed snap peas.

 

13. Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Teriyaki chicken skewers offer a blend of sweet and savory flavors with minimal calories. The lean chicken absorbs the teriyaki marinade beautifully in the air fryer.

Ingredients

• 1 chicken breast (6 oz), cubed
• 2 tbsp low-sodium teriyaki sauce
• 1 small bell pepper, cubed
• 1 small onion, cubed
• 1 tsp olive oil
• Sesame seeds for garnish

Directions

1. Marinate the chicken cubes in teriyaki sauce for 10 minutes.
2. Alternate chicken, bell pepper, and onion on skewers.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F and cook for 10-12 minutes, rotating once.
4. Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.

These skewers work well with steamed brown rice or a side of edamame.

 

14. Air Fryer Chicken and Broccoli

A one-bowl meal that combines lean chicken with nutrient-rich broccoli. The simple seasoning ensures a well-balanced dish that supports weight loss.

Ingredients

• 1 chicken breast (6 oz), diced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Toss the diced chicken and broccoli with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
3. Air fry for 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through until the chicken is cooked and the broccoli is crisp-tender.

Enjoy as a hearty meal on its own or serve over a small portion of quinoa.

 

15. Air Fryer Mediterranean Chicken

Infuse the flavors of the Mediterranean into your meal with this lightly seasoned chicken dish. Fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon bring brightness to every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 chicken breast (6 oz)
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1/4 tsp dried oregano
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped olives for garnish

Directions

1. Marinate the chicken in olive oil, oregano, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for 10 minutes.
2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
3. Air fry for 15 minutes, flipping once until the chicken is juicy and well cooked.
4. Garnish with chopped olives if desired.

This recipe pairs nicely with a side of tabbouleh or steamed green beans.

 

16. Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Breast

For those craving a hint of smoky sweetness, this BBQ chicken breast is a winner. Use a light brushing of your favorite sugar-free BBQ sauce to keep calories low.

Ingredients

• 1 chicken breast (6 oz)
• 1 tbsp sugar-free BBQ sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tsp olive oil

Directions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
2. Rub the chicken breast with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then brush with BBQ sauce.
3. Air fry for 15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and has a caramelized finish.

Pair with a side of coleslaw or grilled corn for a satisfying meal.

 

17. Air Fryer Chicken Quesadilla

A lighter take on a quesadilla that uses grilled chicken and a whole-wheat tortilla. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch that doesn’t pack on extra calories.

Ingredients

• 1 small whole-wheat tortilla
• 1 chicken breast (6 oz), thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup shredded part-skim cheese
• Sliced bell peppers and onions
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Season the chicken slices with salt and pepper and grill in the air fryer at 400°F for 8 minutes.
2. Layer the tortilla with chicken, cheese, and veggies.
3. Return to the air fryer for 3-4 minutes until the cheese melts and the tortilla is crispy.

Cut into wedges and serve with a dollop of salsa or Greek yogurt.

 

18. Air Fryer Chicken with Avocado Salsa

Combine lean protein with a burst of healthy fats in this chicken dish topped with avocado salsa. The light, zesty salsa adds freshness and creaminess without extra calories.

Ingredients

• 1 chicken breast (6 oz)
• 1 tsp olive oil
• Salt, pepper, and a pinch of cumin
• For the salsa: 1/2 avocado (diced), 1 small tomato (diced), lime juice, salt, and chopped cilantro

Directions

1. Season the chicken with olive oil, salt, pepper, and cumin.
2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F and cook the chicken for 15 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, combine avocado, tomato, lime juice, salt, and cilantro in a bowl.
4. Top the cooked chicken with the avocado salsa before serving.

A refreshing meal ideal for lunch or dinner.

 

19. Air Fryer Thai Chicken

Inspired by Thai flavors, this recipe uses a light marinade of lime, garlic, and a hint of chili to create a flavorful dish that won’t derail weight loss goals.

Ingredients

• 1 chicken breast (6 oz)
• 1 tsp fish sauce
• Juice of 1/2 lime
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp chili flakes
• Salt to taste

Directions

1. Marinate the chicken in fish sauce, lime juice, garlic powder, chili flakes, and a pinch of salt for 10 minutes.
2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F.
3. Air fry for 15 minutes, flipping halfway, until the chicken is fully cooked.

This dish goes well with a side of steamed rice or a crisp green salad.

 

20. Air Fryer Chicken Piccata

A lighter version of the classic piccata, this chicken recipe is flavored with capers and lemon for a tangy twist that aids in weight loss.

Ingredients

• 1 chicken breast (6 oz)
• 1 tsp olive oil
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• 1 tbsp capers, drained
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F and cook for 15 minutes until golden.
3. Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle capers on top before serving.

Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a small portion of whole-grain pasta.

 

21. Air Fryer Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Light and crunchy, these lettuce wraps use shredded chicken combined with fresh vegetables for a meal that is both low in calories and high in flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 chicken breast (6 oz), shredded
• 1/4 cup diced carrots
• 1/4 cup diced celery
• 1/4 cup chopped bell peppers
• A few leaves of crisp lettuce
• 1 tsp low-sodium soy sauce
• A splash of rice vinegar

Directions

1. Toss the shredded chicken with carrots, celery, bell peppers, soy sauce, and rice vinegar.
2. Spoon the mixture onto lettuce leaves.
3. Serve immediately as a quick and fresh meal.

 

22. Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Wings (Baked Style)

Enjoy the crunch of chicken wings without deep frying. This recipe uses a dry rub and minimal oil to produce crispy wings that fit into a weight loss plan.

Ingredients

• 6 small chicken wings
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
2. Toss the wings in olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange in the air fryer basket and cook for 12-15 minutes until crispy, shaking halfway through.

These wings are great for a snack or paired with a side of crunchy veggies.

 

23. Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma

Inspired by Middle Eastern flavors, this chicken shawarma is marinated in a blend of spices that create a warm, aromatic dish with low calories.

Ingredients

• 1 chicken breast (6 oz), thinly sliced
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp ground coriander
• 1/4 tsp turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of 1/2 lemon

Directions

1. Marinate the chicken slices in olive oil, cumin, coriander, turmeric, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for 10 minutes.
2. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F and cook for 10-12 minutes until the chicken is tender and aromatic.
3. Serve in a pita or wrapped in lettuce leaves.

 

24. Air Fryer Chicken Stir Fry

A quick stir-fry that combines lean chicken with mixed vegetables. This recipe uses minimal oil and plenty of spices for a flavor-packed meal.

Ingredients

• 1 chicken breast (6 oz), sliced thin
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (snap peas, carrots, bell peppers)
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp soy sauce (low sodium)
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Toss chicken and vegetables in olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F and stir fry for 10 minutes, stirring halfway through until the chicken is cooked and the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Serve with a side of brown rice for a complete meal.

 

25. Air Fryer Chicken with Sweet Potato

This recipe pairs lean chicken with sweet potato for a balanced meal rich in protein and complex carbs. The natural sweetness of the potato complements the savory chicken perfectly.

Ingredients

• 1 chicken breast (6 oz)
• 1 small sweet potato, cut into fries
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Toss the sweet potato fries in olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
3. Cook the sweet potato for 5 minutes first, then add the seasoned chicken breast.
4. Air fry for an additional 10 minutes, checking that both the chicken and fries are cooked through.

This meal is filling and nutrient-dense, ideal for a balanced diet that supports weight loss.

 

Quick Recap

These 25 air fryer chicken recipes focus on lean protein, vibrant spices, and fresh ingredients to create delicious meals that help support weight loss. 

Each dish is designed to be made quickly and with minimal added fat, allowing healthy eating without sacrificing taste.

These recipes can be paired with simple sides like steamed veggies, salads, or whole grains. 

So, enjoy experimenting with these recipes and find the ones that work best for your routine!