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Yes, you can air fry chicken in a convection oven to achieve the same crispy results as an air fryer. In fact, using a convection oven offers the added benefit of its larger cooking capacity, providing you with convenience. It is very easy and time saving.
Both convection ovens and air fryers use a convection fan to circulate hot air around the food, resulting in crispy and delicious chicken. To get started, simply follow the steps for air frying chicken in your specific convection oven model.

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Understanding The Convection Oven
What is a convection oven?
A convection oven is a type of oven that uses a fan to circulate hot air inside the oven cavity. This circulating hot air ensures even cooking and browning of food, making it a popular choice for baking and roasting. Unlike traditional ovens, which rely on radiant heat from the top and bottom heating elements, convection ovens distribute heat more rapidly and evenly throughout the cooking process.
How does a convection oven work?
In a convection oven, the fan located at the back of the oven helps to circulate the hot air uniformly around the food. This circulating air accelerates the cooking process, resulting in quicker and more evenly cooked meals. The fan in the convection oven creates a convection current that allows the food to cook more efficiently and at lower temperatures.
The convection oven also has an additional heating element, usually located near the fan, that helps to maintain a constant temperature and distribute heat evenly. This combination of fan and heating elements ensures that food is cooked evenly from all sides, resulting in crispy textures and delicious flavors.
Benefits of using a convection oven for air frying
- Quicker cooking time: The circulating hot air in a convection oven reduces cooking time, making it a great option for quick and convenient air frying.
- Even cooking: The fan in the convection oven ensures that food is cooked evenly from all sides, resulting in perfectly crispy and uniform results.
- Less oil and healthier results: Air frying in a convection oven requires less oil compared to traditional frying methods, resulting in healthier and lower calorie meals.
- Versatility: Convection ovens can be used for a variety of cooking methods, including baking, roasting, and air frying. This versatility makes it a valuable kitchen appliance for various cooking needs.
- Extra cooking capacity: Convection ovens often have larger cooking capacities, allowing you to cook more food at once. This makes it ideal for preparing meals for larger gatherings or families.
By understanding how a convection oven works and the benefits it offers, you can confidently use it for air frying delicious chicken and enjoy the results of crispy, flavorful meals with less hassle and effort.
Preparing The Chicken
Choosing the right type of chicken
When it comes to air frying chicken in a convection oven, choosing the right type of chicken is crucial for achieving a delicious and crispy result. Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces such as drumsticks, thighs, or wings, as they tend to retain moisture better and result in juicier and more flavorful chicken. You can also use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if that’s your preference. Just keep in mind that bone-in, skin-on chicken is generally more forgiving and less likely to dry out during the air frying process. You must choose the right one.
Preparing the chicken for air frying
Before you start air frying your chicken, it’s essential to properly prepare it to ensure optimal flavor and texture. Start by patting the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture or oil. This step is crucial as it helps the marinade or seasoning adhere better to the chicken and promotes better browning.
If you’re using bone-in, skin-on chicken, it’s recommended to score the skin gently with a sharp knife. This helps release excess fat and allows the skin to crisp up nicely during air frying. However, if you’re using boneless, skinless chicken breasts, you can skip this step.
Seasoning options for flavorful chicken
One of the best things about air frying chicken is the opportunity to experiment with different seasonings and flavors. Here are some seasoning options to consider for flavorful and delicious chicken:
- Classic seasoning: Create a simple yet delicious seasoning blend using salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This combination adds a savory depth of flavor to the chicken.
- Spicy kick: If you prefer a spicier chicken, add chili powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to your seasoning mixture. Adjust the amount of spice according to your taste preferences.
- Herb-infused: Incorporate dried herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano into your seasoning blend for a fragrant and aromatic chicken.
- Marinades: For extra flavor, marinate your chicken pieces in a mixture of your choice, such as buttermilk, lemon juice, soy sauce, or your favorite marinade. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight before air frying.
Remember to evenly coat the chicken pieces with your chosen seasoning or marinade. Massage the seasoning into the chicken to ensure it penetrates the meat for maximum flavor. Let the seasoned chicken rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld before air frying.
With these tips in mind, you’re ready to prepare your chicken for air frying in a convection oven. Follow the cooking instructions specific to your oven model and enjoy a crispy and flavorful chicken dish with a fraction of the oil traditionally used for frying.
Air Frying Process
Setting the temperature and time for air frying
To air fry chicken in a convection oven, it is essential to set the right temperature and cooking time for perfect results. Generally, preheating the convection oven to a temperature of 400°F (200°C) works well for air frying chicken. This high temperature ensures a crispy exterior while maintaining juicy and tender meat on the inside. Adjust the cooking time based on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces. As a guideline, boneless chicken breasts may take around 18-20 minutes, while bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks may require 25-30 minutes.
Placing the chicken in the convection oven
Once the temperature and time are set, it’s time to place the chicken in the convection oven. For even cooking and optimal air circulation, it is recommended to use a wire rack placed on a baking sheet. This setup allows the hot air to circulate around the chicken pieces, resulting in a crispy texture all around. If desired, you can lightly grease the wire rack or line the baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Arrange the chicken pieces on the wire rack, ensuring there is enough space between them for air to flow freely.
Monitoring the cooking process
While the chicken is air frying in the convection oven, it’s crucial to monitor the cooking process to ensure it doesn’t overcook or undercook. Keep an eye on the chicken’s color, checking for a golden brown and crispy exterior. You can also use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For poultry, the safe internal temperature is 165°F (74°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken, avoiding contact with bone for an accurate reading. If the chicken hasn’t reached the desired temperature, continue cooking in increments of a few minutes until it does.
In conclusion, air frying chicken in a convection oven is a convenient and efficient way to achieve crispy and delicious results. By setting the temperature and time appropriately, placing the chicken in the convection oven with the right setup, and closely monitoring the cooking process, you can enjoy perfectly air-fried chicken at home.
Achieving Crispy Results
How to Air Fry Chicken in a Convection Oven
Tips for achieving crispy chicken skin
When it comes to air frying chicken in a convection oven, achieving crispy chicken skin is a top priority for many home cooks. Here are some tips to help you achieve that desirable crunch:
- Pat the chicken skin dry before cooking.
- Brush the chicken with a thin layer of oil to promote browning.
- Preheat your convection oven to a high temperature (around 400°F) to jumpstart the crisping process.
- Place the chicken on a wire rack set on top of a baking sheet to allow air circulation and prevent the chicken from sitting in its own juices.
- For an extra crispy finish, you can lightly coat the chicken with a mixture of flour, cornstarch, or breadcrumbs.
- Don’t overcrowd the chicken in the oven. Leave some space between the pieces to ensure even cooking.
Using different cooking techniques for desired results
Depending on your personal preference, there are different cooking techniques you can employ to achieve the desired level of crispiness:
- If you prefer a lighter, delicate crunch, you can cook the chicken at a lower temperature for a longer time. This allows the skin to slowly crisp up without becoming overly browned.
- For a more golden and crispy skin, you can start by cooking the chicken at a higher temperature for the first few minutes, and then reduce the temperature for the remaining cooking time.
- If you want extra crispy skin, you can finish the chicken under the broiler for a couple of minutes after air frying to add that perfect golden brown color.
Adjustments for different cuts of chicken
Each cut of chicken requires slightly different adjustments to ensure crispy results:
- Bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces generally take longer to cook than boneless, skinless cuts. You may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- If you’re air frying chicken breasts, consider pounding them to an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking and avoid dryness.
- Thicker cuts, such as chicken thighs or drumsticks, may require a lower temperature and longer cooking time to ensure the internal temperature reaches the safe minimum of 165°F while still achieving crispy skin.
- No matter the cut, always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked before serving.
By following these tips and techniques, you can achieve perfectly crispy air-fried chicken in your convection oven. Experiment with different seasonings and flavors to create a delicious and satisfying meal for you and your family to enjoy!
Serving And Enjoying
Now that you’ve mastered the art of air frying chicken in a convection oven, it’s time to enjoy the delicious results. In this section, we’ll cover everything you need to know about serving the chicken safely, as well as some mouthwatering suggestions for accompaniments. Plus, we’ll share tips on how to store any leftovers for future enjoyment.
Handling the cooked chicken safely
When it comes to handling cooked chicken, it’s important to prioritize food safety. Follow these guidelines to ensure that you and your loved ones stay healthy:
- Use clean utensils – When removing the chicken from the oven or preparing it for serving, always use clean utensils to avoid cross-contamination.
- Check the internal temperature – Before serving the chicken, use a food thermometer to check that it has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures that it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Store leftovers promptly – If you have any leftovers, refrigerate them within two hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth.
- Avoid reheating multiple times – Reheat leftovers only once to maintain the chicken’s quality and minimize the risk of foodborne illness.
Serving suggestions and accompaniments
Now that your air-fried chicken is cooked to perfection, it’s time to think about serving it with some delicious accompaniments. Here are a few suggestions to elevate your chicken dish:
- Classic sides – Serve your chicken with traditional sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
- Sauces and dips – Pair your chicken with flavorful sauces and dips, such as barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or creamy ranch dressing.
- Grains and bread – Accompany your chicken with a side of rice pilaf, quinoa, or warm, crusty bread to soak up any delicious juices.
- Refreshing beverages – Complete your meal with a refreshing beverage, like a glass of homemade lemonade, iced tea, or a crisp white wine.
Storing leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, it’s essential to store them properly to maintain their freshness and taste. Here’s how to ensure your leftovers stay delicious:
- Cool the chicken – Allow the cooked chicken to cool down slightly before placing it in an airtight container. This helps retain moisture and prevents condensation.
- Divide into portions – If you have a large amount of leftover chicken, consider dividing it into individual portions. This makes it easier to grab a single serving when you’re ready to enjoy it.
- Label and date – To avoid confusion, label the container with the date and contents of the leftovers. This way, you can keep track of how long they’ve been stored.
- Refrigerate or freeze – Depending on when you plan to consume the leftover chicken, either store it in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze it for future use.
By following these guidelines, you can safely handle, serve, and store your air-fried chicken in a convection oven. Now, it’s time to savor the delicious flavors and enjoy your culinary masterpiece!
Frequently Asked Questions Of How To Air Fry Chicken In A Convection Oven
Can You Air Fry Chicken In A Convection Oven?
Yes, you can air fry chicken in a convection oven. Convection ovens use a fan to circulate hot air, achieving the same crispy results as an air fryer.
What Temperature To Air Fry Chicken In A Convection Oven?
The temperature to air fry chicken in a convection oven is the same as in an air fryer.
How Do I Turn My Convection Oven Into An Airfryer?
To turn your convection oven into an air fryer, follow these tips: 1. Use a crisper basket and place oven racks in adjacent positions for better airflow. 2. Set the included crumb tray on the lower rack to enhance air circulation.
3. Cook your food at the recommended air frying temperature. 4. Enjoy the same crispy results as with a dedicated air fryer, with the added convenience of extra cooking capacity.
Can I Use My Ge Convection Oven As An Air Fryer?
Yes, you can use your GE convection oven as an air fryer to achieve the same results.
Can You Air Fry Chicken In A Convection Oven?
Yes, your convection oven allows you to air fry and still achieve the same results. In fact, there are additional benefits to using your convection oven, such as convenience courtesy of their extra cooking capacity. Both convection ovens and air fryers use a convection fan to circulate hot air around the food.
Conclusion
Air frying chicken in a convection oven is not only possible, but it also yields excellent results. The convection fan in the oven helps to circulate hot air, creating that crispy texture we all love. Plus, using your convection oven for air frying offers additional convenience with its larger cooking capacity.
You can easily achieve that perfect crunch without needing a separate air fryer appliance. To air fry chicken in your convection oven, simply follow the recommended temperature and cooking time guidelines. You can also use a crisper basket to enhance the airflow around the food, resulting in even crispier and more flavorful chicken. You can easily do this things and enjoy the meal.
By utilizing your convection oven as an air fryer, you not only save space but also enjoy the flexibility of having one appliance that can perform multiple cooking functions. So next time you’re craving that delicious air-fried chicken, remember that your trusty convection oven can deliver the same mouthwatering results.
Happy cooking!
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