Buffalo Chicken Jerky Sticks Cooked in an Air Fryer
If you're craving a spicy, protein-packed snack, these Buffalo Chicken Jerky Sticks are a perfect choice. Made quickly in the air fryer, they’re flavorful, tender, and great for on-the-go munching.
Prep Time10 min
Cook Time2 hr 30 min
Total Time2 hr 40 min
Difficulty
Hard
Chef's Cooking Tips
Make sure to slice the chicken evenly for consistent cooking.
Preheat the air fryer for a few minutes to help the jerky cook evenly.
Check the jerky halfway through cooking and rotate if needed to avoid uneven crisping.
Ingredients
0/8
Why This Recipe Is A Favorite
These spicy and savory jerky sticks are a perfect high-protein snack that packs a flavorful punch. Cooking them in the air fryer makes the process quick and easy, giving you a crispy texture without extra oil. They are great for on-the-go snacking or a game day treat.
Step 1
Stir the ground chicken with 1/4 cup of cayenne pepper sauce, sea salt, pepper, celery seed, garlic powder, onion powder, and pink curing salt in a big bowl until everything is well combined. Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 8 hours, or overnight if you can.
Step 2
When you’re ready to cook, use a jerky gun to squeeze the mixture into sticks right onto your air fryer racks. Preheat your air fryer to 160°F (70°C).
Step 3
Place the racks inside the air fryer and cook the sticks for about 2 hours. Halfway through, flip them over with a fork, then brush the tops with the remaining 2 tablespoons of cayenne pepper sauce.
Step 4
Finish cooking for another 30 minutes until they’re nicely dried out. Let the jerky sticks cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.
268
people cooked this recipe
ByDavid Brown
David shares approachable recipes, helpful cooking tips, and simple meal ideas.
Serving Variations
Serve these spicy sticks with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing to balance the heat. They also pair well with fresh celery sticks or carrot sticks for a crunchy, refreshing contrast. Perfect for snacking anytime or adding to a party platter.
Storing Food Safely
Allow the jerky sticks to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. Keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for longer storage. Reheat briefly in the air fryer or microwave to restore some crispness before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular ground chicken instead of ground chicken breast?
Yes, regular ground chicken works fine, but ground chicken breast is leaner and better for jerky texture.
What can I use if I don’t have a jerky gun?
You can shape the mixture into thin sticks by hand or use a piping bag with a large round tip.
Is it safe to use pink curing salt in homemade jerky?
Yes, when used in small amounts as directed, pink curing salt helps prevent bacterial growth and preserves color.
Can I cook the jerky sticks at a higher temperature to reduce cooking time?
Cooking at higher temperatures may dry them out unevenly; 160°F (70°C) is recommended for best results.
How long will the jerky sticks keep once stored?
Stored in an airtight container, they can last up to 1-2 weeks at room temperature or longer in the fridge.
Can I substitute the cayenne pepper sauce with another hot sauce?
Yes, you can use any hot sauce with a similar heat level for flavor.
Do I need to flip the jerky sticks halfway through cooking?
Yes, flipping ensures even drying and prevents sticking.
Can I freeze the jerky sticks after cooking?
Yes, freezing helps extend shelf life; thaw before eating for best texture.
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