Air Fryer Chicken Jerky is a healthy, high-protein snack that’s incredibly easy to make and perfect for meal prepping. The air fryer makes the process quicker and more convenient than traditional dehydrating or oven-baking methods, allowing you to enjoy homemade jerky without the long wait. By using lean chicken breast, a simple marinade of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and a few spices, you can create a delicious and satisfying snack that’s packed with flavor. Whether you’re craving a savory snack between meals, need something to take on the go, or are looking for a protein boost, this homemade jerky is an excellent choice.
One of the biggest advantages of making your own chicken jerky in the air fryer is that you can control the ingredients. Unlike store-bought jerky, which is often packed with preservatives, artificial flavorings, and added sugars, homemade jerky is free from any unnecessary additives. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can create a flavorful and nutritious snack that supports your health goals. The air fryer also helps you achieve the perfect texture—chewy and tender, without being overly dry or tough—making it the ideal way to prepare jerky without the need for complicated equipment.
Another great thing about air fryer chicken jerky is its versatility. The marinade can be easily adjusted to suit your taste preferences. If you like your jerky on the spicier side, you can add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. For a sweet twist, try adding a bit of honey or a sugar substitute to balance out the savory flavors. You can also experiment with different spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, or even a little ginger for a unique, personalized flavor profile. This makes chicken jerky a customizable snack that can be tailored to your liking.
Perfect for on-the-go, air fryer chicken jerky is ideal for meal prep and long-lasting storage. After cooking, the jerky can be kept in an airtight container for up to two weeks, making it a great option for busy days when you need a quick, protein-rich snack. You can even freeze it for longer storage, ensuring you always have a healthy snack ready when you need it. Whether you’re hiking, traveling, or just need a quick snack at home, this homemade jerky provides a filling and nutritious option that is far superior to processed snacks.
Air Fryer Chicken Jerky Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast (skinless and boneless)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp honey or a sugar substitute (like stevia or erythritol, for a low-carb option)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for extra tenderness)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. You can place the chicken in the freezer for 30-45 minutes before slicing to make it easier to cut. For even slices, it’s important to cut against the grain of the meat.
- Make the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, honey (or sugar substitute), smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). The honey will help give the jerky a slight sweetness, but you can adjust the sweetness depending on your preference. Add the chicken strips to the marinade, making sure they are all fully coated. Let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour or up to 4 hours to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 160°F (71°C). Most air fryers have a low-temperature setting, but if yours doesn’t go that low, aim for the closest setting to 160°F.
- Arrange the Chicken in the Air Fryer: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Lay the marinated chicken strips in a single layer inside the basket, making sure the strips aren’t overlapping. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Air Fry the Chicken Jerky: Cook the chicken for 2-3 hours, flipping the pieces halfway through the cooking time. The jerky is done when it is firm to the touch, with a slightly dry texture, but still a little chewy. The cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your chicken slices and the model of your air fryer, so keep an eye on it. Check every 30 minutes after the first hour to prevent overcooking.
- Cool and Store: Once the chicken jerky is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and let it cool completely. The jerky will continue to dry out as it cools. Once cooled, store it in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks at room temperature, or you can refrigerate it for longer shelf life.
Nutrition Information (per serving – makes 6 servings):
- Calories: 140
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Net Carbs: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Sugar: 2g
- WW Points: 2 SmartPoints per serving (depending on the specific brands of ingredients used)
Why Air Fryer Chicken Jerky Works:
- Low in Fat and High in Protein: Chicken jerky is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps with muscle recovery and curbing hunger. It’s also low in fat, making it a perfect snack for those following a high-protein or low-fat diet. The air fryer method reduces the fat content by cooking the chicken without the need for added oils, while still delivering a tender yet chewy texture.
- Customizable Flavors: One of the best parts about making your own chicken jerky is that you can adjust the flavor to your liking. Add more or less honey for sweetness, ramp up the heat with more red pepper flakes, or play around with other spices like cumin, chili powder, or black pepper. You can also swap the soy sauce for coconut aminos if you’re following a low-sodium or Paleo diet.
- Preservative-Free: Unlike store-bought jerky, which can be loaded with preservatives and artificial ingredients, homemade air fryer chicken jerky is made with wholesome, real ingredients. The marinade is simple and clean, ensuring you’re getting a snack that’s as healthy as it is tasty.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Air fryer chicken jerky is an ideal snack to prepare in advance for busy weeks. It’s easy to make in bulk, and once it’s made, it can be stored for up to 2 weeks (or longer if refrigerated). Whether you pack it in your lunch, take it on a hike, or enjoy it as an afternoon snack, it’s a portable and nutritious option.
- Air Fryer Convenience: The air fryer is the perfect appliance for making jerky because it circulates hot air around the food, helping it dry out evenly and quickly without the need for a dehydrator or oven. This saves time while still giving you that classic jerky texture and flavor.
Tips for Success:
- Thickness of Chicken: The key to making perfect jerky is slicing the chicken thinly and uniformly. If the slices are too thick, they won’t dry out properly. If they’re too thin, they may become overly crispy and lose their chewy texture. A consistent thickness of about 1/8 inch works best.
- Patience Is Key: Making jerky is a slow process, and the air fryer requires patience. Cooking times can vary depending on the thickness of the chicken and your air fryer model, so check the jerky periodically to ensure it doesn’t overcook. You want it firm yet flexible, not completely dry and brittle.
- Flavor Variations: Get creative with your marinades! You can experiment with different spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, or even a little honey mustard for a unique twist. You can also add a splash of lime juice or vinegar for a tangy flavor.
- Storing: Once the jerky has cooled, store it in an airtight container. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, you can vacuum seal the jerky and store it in the freezer for a few months.
