Crispy & Fiery Dave’s Hot Chicken in Air Fryer

Dave’s Hot Chicken has taken the culinary world by storm with its Nashville-style fried chicken. Now you can recreate those famous fiery flavors at home using your air fryer.

This cooking method delivers the perfect crispy exterior without the mess of traditional deep frying. Air frying Dave’s Hot Chicken copycat recipes offers several advantages.

You’ll achieve that signature crunch with less oil. The circulating hot air creates an even golden coating. Plus, cleanup becomes much simpler than stovetop frying.

The key lies in proper seasoning and technique. Start with quality chicken pieces and the right spice blend. Temperature control matters for achieving that authentic Dave’s experience. Your air fryer transforms ordinary chicken into restaurant-quality results.

Get ready to master the art of air fryer Dave’s Hot Chicken. Soon you’ll be serving up Nashville heat from your own kitchen. The crispy, spicy satisfaction awaits.

What is Dave’s Hot Chicken?

Dave’s Hot Chicken is a fast-casual restaurant chain that has known for its spicy, crispy chicken tenders and sliders, Dave’s offers a range of heat levels from “No Spice” to “Reaper,” catering to all palates.

The secret lies in its:

• Buttermilk-brined chicken
• Spicy cayenne-infused oil
• Crunchy, golden crust
• Signature pickles and creamy slaw

Recreating this flavor profile at home may seem daunting, but with an air fryer, it becomes both achievable and healthier.

Why Use an Air Fryer?

The air fryer has revolutionized home cooking by offering a healthier alternative to deep frying. It uses hot air circulation to mimic the crispy texture of fried foods without the excess oil.

Benefits of Using an Air Fryer:

• Healthier Cooking: Up to 80% less oil than traditional frying
• Faster Cooking Time: Perfect for weeknight meals
• Crispy Texture: Achieves golden-brown perfection
• Easy Cleanup: Less mess and fewer dishes

Using an air fryer for this Dave’s Hot Chicken recipe ensures a guilt-free indulgence without sacrificing flavor or crunch.

Ingredients for the Recipe

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or tenders
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Breading:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Spicy Oil:

• 1/4 cup neutral oil (e.g., canola or vegetable)
• 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Optional Toppings:

• Dill pickles
• Brioche buns or white bread slices
• Creamy coleslaw

How to Make Air Fryer Dave’s Hot Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken and coat well.
3. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Pro Tip: Marinating overnight enhances flavor and tenderness.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading

1. In a shallow dish, mix flour, cornstarch, cayenne, paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
2. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off.
3. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing to adhere.

Step 3: Air Fry the Chicken

1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes.
2. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil.
3. Place chicken pieces in a single layer. Do not overcrowd.
4. Spray the tops of the chicken with oil.
5. Cook for 10 minutes, flip, spray again, and cook for another 8–10 minutes until golden and crispy.

Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Step 4: Make the Spicy Oil

1. In a small saucepan, heat oil over medium heat.
2. Add cayenne, brown sugar, chili powder, paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Stir for 30 seconds, then remove from heat.

Be cautious: this oil is potent and spicy!

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

1. Brush spicy oil generously over the cooked chicken.
2. Serve on a slice of white bread or brioche bun.
3. Top with pickles and coleslaw for the full Dave’s experience.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Hot Chicken

Achieve Maximum Crispiness:

• Use cornstarch in the breading for extra crunch.
• Spray oil generously on both sides.
• Avoid overcrowding the basket.

Control the Heat Level:

• Mild: Use less cayenne and more brown sugar.
• Medium: Stick to the recipe.
• Hot: Double the cayenne in the spicy oil.
• Reaper: Add ghost pepper powder (at your own risk!).

Best Chicken Cuts to Use:

• Chicken tenders: Quick and easy
• Chicken thighs: Juicy and flavorful
• Chicken breasts: Leaner option

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

For a lighter version, skip the bun and serve over a salad.

Variations and Add-Ons

Gluten-Free Option:

• Use gluten-free flour and cornstarch
• Ensure all spices are certified gluten-free

Keto-Friendly Version:

• Replace flour with almond flour
• Skip the bun and serve with keto slaw

Vegetarian Twist:

• Use tofu or cauliflower florets
• Marinate and bread the same way
• Reduce air frying time to 12–15 minutes

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Combo: Chicken + pickles + white bread
• Slider Style: Mini brioche buns + coleslaw
• Southern Plate: Mashed potatoes + collard greens
• Brunch Option: Chicken and waffles with spicy syrup

Storage and Reheating

How to Store:

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days

Reheating Tips:

• Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes
• Avoid microwaving to preserve crispiness

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Dave’s Hot Chicken without buttermilk?

Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with a mixture of milk and vinegar or lemon juice. Use 1 cup of milk + 1 tablespoon of vinegar, let sit for 5 minutes before using.

2. What’s the best air fryer for this recipe?

Look for models with at least a 5-quart capacity and a basket-style design. Brands like Ninja and Cosori are highly recommended.

3. How spicy is Dave’s Hot Chicken?

It ranges from mild to extremely hot. This recipe is customizable. Adjust the cayenne and chili powders to your preference.

4. Can I freeze the cooked chicken?

Yes. Freeze after air frying and cooling. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 10–12 minutes.

5. Is this recipe healthier than the original?

Absolutely. Using an air fryer significantly reduces oil content, making it a lighter alternative without compromising on flavor.