This Easy Air Fryer Shake and Bake Chicken is the ultimate quick and crispy dinner recipe. Using simple pantry staples like breadcrumbs and seasoning, this dish transforms chicken thighs and drumsticks into golden, crunchy, flavor-packed perfection. The air fryer ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy—plus a drizzle of honey butter adds a mouthwatering sweet finish. A crowd-pleasing favorite for busy weeknights!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
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4 chicken quarters, cut into thighs and drumsticks
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½ cup breadcrumbs
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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1 tsp oregano
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1 tsp salt
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1 tsp black pepper
Butter Mixture:
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½ cup melted butter
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½ tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp onion powder
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½ tsp smoked paprika
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½ tsp black pepper
Honey Butter (for drizzle):
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½ cup melted butter
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1 tbsp honey (or hot honey)
Garnish:
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Fresh chopped parsley
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Extra honey butter for serving
Directions
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Prep the Chicken: Rinse and pat dry chicken pieces. Separate quarters into thighs and drumsticks.
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Make the Breadcrumb Coating: In a shallow dish, combine breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
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Prepare Butter Mixture: Melt butter and mix with seasonings in a bowl.
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Coat the Chicken: Dip each piece in the butter mixture, then press into the breadcrumb mixture to fully coat.
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Air Fry: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place chicken pieces in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
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Prepare Honey Butter: Mix melted butter and honey in a bowl. Adjust sweetness to taste.
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Serve: Drizzle cooked chicken with honey butter and garnish with parsley. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Nutrients (per serving) (Estimated for 4 servings)
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Calories: 610 kcal
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Protein: 35g
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Fat: 45g
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Saturated Fat: 17g
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Carbohydrates: 10g
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Sugar: 6g
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Sodium: 820mg
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Cholesterol: 140mg