Air Fryer Chicken Necks Recipe

Looking for a unique and budget-friendly protein idea? These Air Fryer Chicken Necks are crispy, juicy, and full of flavor with minimal effort! Whether you’re new to cooking chicken necks or already a fan, this easy air fryer recipe brings out their best with just a few simple seasonings and 20 minutes of cook time.

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Chicken Necks

• Quick and easy to make. With just three ingredients and no prep work besides seasoning, this recipe is ready in under 25 minutes. No need to preheat the air fryer, and cleanup is minimal. It’s the perfect choice for busy weeknights or when you need a tasty snack fast.

• Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside. The air fryer gives the chicken necks beautifully browned, crispy skin. Inside, the meat stays tender and juicy, making every bite irresistible. It’s the perfect contrast of textures you’ll keep coming back for.

• Totally customizable. While this recipe keeps it simple with salt and pepper, you can use any spice blend you like. Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, or chili powder to fit your taste. You’re in full control of the flavor.

• Budget-friendly protein option. Chicken necks are an affordable cut that’s packed with flavor. You can find them at most ethnic supermarkets at a fraction of the cost of other meats. A great way to stretch your grocery budget without sacrificing taste.

• A fun and different dish to try. If you’ve never had chicken necks before, this is the perfect way to try them. Cooking them in the air fryer makes the process foolproof. They make a great conversation starter or appetizer at your next gathering!

Ingredients For Air Fryer Chicken Necks

• Chicken necks – These are the star of the recipe! They’re meaty, flavorful, and cook beautifully in the air fryer.

• Salt – A simple seasoning that enhances the natural flavor of the meat.

• Black pepper – Adds just a touch of spice and depth to balance the salt.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Air Fryer Chicken Necks

• Air fryer – This is the key tool for getting the chicken necks crispy and evenly cooked without oil.

• Tongs – Handy for placing the necks in the basket and taking them out safely after cooking.

How To Make Air Fryer Chicken Necks

• Start by placing your chicken necks in a bowl or on a plate.

• Sprinkle salt and pepper over the top, then rub it in with your hands.

• Flip the necks and season the other side the same way.

• Use tongs to place the seasoned necks in the air fryer basket, arranging them in a single layer.

• Slide the basket into the air fryer and set it to 400°F.

• Cook for 20 minutes until they’re golden brown and crispy.

• Remove the necks from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before enjoying!

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy as a savory snack or appetizer on their own—just pick up and eat!

• Serve with dipping sauces like cheese ranch, sweet & spicy, or green onion dip for extra flavor.

• Pair with roasted mini peppers, fried rice, or a Persian cucumber salad to turn it into a meal.

• Add them to a party platter for something fun and unexpected.

• Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for a bright, tangy finish.

Tips For Success

• Dry the chicken necks before seasoning. Patting them dry with a paper towel helps the seasonings stick better and gives the skin a crispier finish. Excess moisture can cause them to steam instead of crisp, so this little step makes a big difference.

• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Lay the chicken necks in a single layer so the hot air can circulate all around. This ensures even browning and helps every piece come out nice and crispy. If needed, cook in batches for best results.

• Season both sides thoroughly. It’s easy to just sprinkle one side and forget the other, but for even flavor, make sure to season all around. Use your hands to rub it in gently, or shake them in a bowl for quick coating.

• Customize the seasonings. The recipe uses just salt and pepper, but you can spice things up! Try garlic powder, smoked paprika, lemon pepper, or even Cajun seasoning for a flavor twist.

• Let them rest for a couple minutes before eating. After removing from the air fryer, let the necks sit for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle inside and keeps the meat tender and moist.

• Use tongs to handle hot necks safely. The skin gets crispy and hot in the air fryer, so avoid burns by using tongs to take them out. This also helps keep the skin intact for a better presentation.

• Experiment and make it your own. Once you try this simple version, feel free to adjust it each time. It’s a great recipe for exploring different spice blends or pairing with new sauces.

Variations And Substitutions

• Switch up the seasonings. While salt and pepper are deliciously simple, you can totally change the flavor profile with different spices. Try Cajun seasoning for a spicy kick, lemon pepper for a tangy twist, or garlic herb blend for something savory. Smoked paprika, chili powder, or onion powder also add great depth.

• Make it spicy. Want some heat? Add cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, or a spicy seasoning mix. You can even drizzle with hot sauce after cooking if you prefer the spice at the end. This variation works great for fans of bold, spicy flavors.

• Try a dry rub or marinade. A BBQ dry rub can give your chicken necks a smoky, sweet taste. Or let them sit in a soy sauce and garlic marinade for 15–30 minutes before cooking for added umami. Just be sure to dry them slightly before air frying so they still crisp up.

• Add a sweet and savory twist. After air frying, brush the necks with a little honey or maple syrup mixed with soy sauce or mustard. The sweet glaze will caramelize slightly from the heat and create a sticky, flavorful coating. It’s a fun twist when you’re in the mood for something different.

• Make it part of a full meal. While chicken necks are often a snack, they can be served with a variety of sides to make a full plate. Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, steamed veggies, or a crunchy slaw. You can also shred the meat and use it in soups or over salads.

• Accommodate different diets. This recipe is naturally low-carb, keto, and gluten-free. If you’re watching sodium, reduce the salt and boost flavor with herbs or lemon juice. For more variety, try making turkey necks the same way—they’re larger but cook similarly.

• Adjust for different air fryer models. If your air fryer runs hotter or smaller, reduce the time slightly or check halfway through. Every model is a bit different, so keep an eye out the first time you make them. Once you know how yours cooks, it’s easy to repeat.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator storage: Place leftover chicken necks in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Let them cool completely before storing to avoid condensation, which can make them soggy.

• Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze cooked chicken necks in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay good for up to 2 months—just label with the date for easy tracking.

• Reheating in the air fryer: To bring back that crispy texture, reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 5–7 minutes. No need to thaw if frozen—just add a couple extra minutes of cook time.

• Microwave option: You can microwave leftovers for a quick reheat, but they won’t be crispy. Cover with a paper towel and heat in short bursts to avoid overcooking.

• Best results: For the best texture and flavor, the air fryer is your go-to for reheating. It keeps the skin crispy and the inside juicy, just like when they were freshly cooked.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken necks in this recipe?

Yes, you can cook chicken necks from frozen in the air fryer. Just add an extra 5–7 minutes to the cooking time and check for doneness. Make sure they are separated before placing in the basket to ensure even cooking. Season them after they thaw slightly during cooking or use a marinade that sticks well to frozen meat.

Where can I buy chicken necks?

Chicken necks are most commonly found in ethnic grocery stores or butcher shops. Some larger supermarkets may carry them in the meat section or sell them as part of a pack with other chicken parts. If you don’t see them, just ask the butcher—they often have them available even if they’re not out on display.

Do chicken necks have a lot of meat?

Chicken necks are small and bony, but they do have flavorful meat around the bones. They’re best enjoyed as a snack or appetizer where the fun is in nibbling the tasty bites. They may not be super meaty like chicken thighs or breasts, but they’re full of rich flavor.

What do chicken necks taste like?

They taste like a cross between chicken wings and roasted chicken. The skin gets crispy and savory, while the meat stays juicy and has a slightly gamey richness. The flavor is more intense than other parts of the chicken, making them very satisfying to eat.

Are chicken necks healthy?

Chicken necks are a good source of protein and essential nutrients like iron and collagen. They’re naturally low in carbs and work well for keto or low-carb diets. Keep in mind the fat content is higher due to the skin, but they can still be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.

Can I use different seasonings or sauces?

Absolutely! The recipe is super flexible. You can use spice blends like Cajun, taco, or lemon pepper, or brush them with sauces like teriyaki or BBQ after cooking. It’s a fun dish to experiment with and customize to your taste.

What should I serve with air fryer chicken necks?

These are great with dipping sauces like ranch, hot sauce, or honey mustard. For a meal, serve with sides like coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or a fresh garden salad. They also pair well with rice or mashed potatoes if you want something more filling.

Can I cook other chicken parts using this method?

Yes! The same cooking method works great for chicken wings, drumsticks, or even turkey necks. Just adjust the cook time depending on the size and thickness of the meat. The air fryer is super versatile for cooking all kinds of chicken parts.

How do I know when chicken necks are done?

They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F. You can also tell they’re done when the meat easily pulls away from the bone and the skin is nice and crisp.

Why are my chicken necks not crispy?

If they didn’t crisp up, they might have been too wet going into the air fryer. Make sure to pat them dry first and don’t overcrowd the basket. Also, avoid using too much oil or marinade that can prevent the skin from getting crispy.

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More Air Fryer Recipes

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• Trader Joe’s Puff Pastry Pigs in a Blanket in the Air Fryer