How long should I air fry chicken to achieve that perfectly golden and crispy exterior while ensuring the interior remains succulent and juicy? It’s a conundrum many culinary enthusiasts face. Different cuts of chicken, such as breasts, thighs, or drumsticks, might necessitate varied cooking durations to reach the ideal level of doneness. What about the thickness of each piece? Might it influence the cooking time substantially? Moreover, could the seasoning or marination technique play a role in how long the chicken needs to be air-fried? It’s fascinating to consider the impact of preheating the air fryer on the cooking process as well. And then there’s the question of whether to cover the chicken or leave it uncovered—a decision that might alter both texture and flavor. As you ponder these multifaceted aspects, what are the best practices to ascertain if your chicken is thoroughly cooked, without resorting to guesswork or cutting into the meat? This culinary inquiry invites a deeper exploration into the art of air frying chicken.