Homemade Air Fryer Dog Treats Recipe With Chicken & Sweet Potato

Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.

Worried about what’s actually in those store-bought dog treats? It’s tough watching your dog deal with stomach issues or itchy skin, all because of sketchy ingredients you can’t even pronounce.

The good news? Giving your pup healthy, real food is way easier than you think. You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen. Try this quick air fryer dog treats recipe that is simple, wholesome, and your dog’s going to go nuts for it.

Recipe Overview

This homemade chicken and sweet potato air fryer treat recipe is quick, easy, and totally grain-free. It’s perfect for dogs with common allergies or sensitive stomachs because it uses minimal, high-quality ingredients.

• Purpose: High-protein, grain-free dog treats for training or snacking.
• Benefits: Excellent source of fiber, Vitamin A, and lean protein.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes (in batches)
• Serving Size: Makes about 40 small treats

Ingredients List

We use simple, human-grade ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store. Check for sales, and this recipe becomes very cost-effective compared to boutique treats.

• 1 pound ground chicken (90% lean recommended) – $4.50
• 1 medium sweet potato (cooked and mashed, about 1 cup) – $0.75
• 1 large egg (helps bind the mixture) – $0.30
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil (or olive oil, for healthy fats) – $0.20
• 1/4 cup oat flour (use brown rice flour for strict grain-free) – $0.15
• Total Estimated Cost: $5.90

Substitutions: You can swap the ground chicken for ground turkey or lean beef. If your dog needs more fiber, add 1 tablespoon of finely ground flaxseed meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making these treats is fast, especially if you have an air fryer. Keep the mixture manageable and don’t crowd the air fryer basket.

• First, cook your sweet potato until it’s very soft. You can boil it, steam it, or microwave it. Then, mash it thoroughly and let it cool a bit.
• In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, mashed sweet potato, egg, and coconut oil. Mix everything together with a spoon or your hands until it’s evenly distributed.
• Next, sprinkle in the oat flour and continue mixing until the dough holds together and is slightly sticky, but not overly wet. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour.
• Roll the mixture out onto a piece of parchment paper until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. Don’t make them too thick, or they won’t cook all the way through.
• Use a small cookie cutter or a sharp knife to cut the dough into treat shapes. Small squares or circles work best for fast air frying.
• Lightly spray your air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the treats in the basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch.
• Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes. Flip the treats over carefully and cook for another 5 to 10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and firm to the touch.
• Transfer the finished treats to a wire rack immediately so they can cool down and become nice and crispy.

Feeding Guidelines

These treats are meant to be a supplement, not a full meal. Always consider the 10% rule: treats should only make up about 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake.

• Small Dogs (under 20 lbs): 2 to 3 small treats per day.
• Medium Dogs (20-50 lbs): 4 to 6 treats per day.
• Large Dogs (over 50 lbs): 6 to 8 treats per day.
• For puppies, use very small pieces for training rewards. They need dense calories, so don’t overdo the treats.
• If your dog is overweight, cut back on the quantity. If they are very active or underweight, you can offer a few more.
• Always talk to your veterinarian about specific portion sizes, especially if your dog has any health issues or is on a restricted diet.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

Every ingredient here was chosen because it gives your dog something beneficial, not just because it tastes good.

• Chicken: Provides high-quality lean protein, which is essential for muscle development, tissue repair, and energy.
• Sweet Potato: An excellent source of complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. It’s rich in Vitamin A (for vision and immune function) and dietary fiber, supporting colon health.
• Egg: Supplies essential fatty acids, vitamins (like B12 and folate), and provides a complete protein source.
• Coconut Oil: Contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are easily digestible and provide quick energy. Some dogs benefit from improved skin and coat health with regular consumption.
• Oat Flour/Rice Flour: Adds structure and is generally well-tolerated by dogs sensitive to wheat or corn.

Storage and Serving Tips

Making a big batch saves time, so proper storage is key to keeping the treats fresh and safe.

• Refrigeration: Store completely cooled treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the treats. Layer them in a freezer-safe bag or container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They last up to 3 months frozen.
• Reheating: You can feed them cold, but some dogs love them slightly warmed. Reheat frozen treats in the air fryer at 300°F for just a few minutes until warmed through.
• Serving Idea: Use these soft treats as pill pockets, or break them into tiny bits for high-value training rewards.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use raw chicken?

No, you should only use cooked ingredients in this recipe. Feeding cooked chicken ensures all bacteria are killed and makes the protein easier for your dog to digest.

Do I need to add a vitamin supplement to this recipe?

Since these are treats and not a complete meal, a supplement isn’t strictly necessary. However, if you plan to feed homemade food as more than 20% of your dog’s diet, you absolutely must talk to your vet about adding a balanced, canine-specific vitamin and mineral supplement to prevent deficiencies.

Why are my treats crumbly and not holding shape?

This usually happens because the mixture is too dry. Make sure your sweet potato is fully mashed, and add a little bit more binder, like another egg white or a splash of water, until the dough is just sticky enough to roll.

Wrapping Up

Giving your dog these homemade chicken and sweet potato air fryer treats is a simple way to show them love while controlling exactly what goes into their bowl. They are healthy, delicious, and easy to make. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Treat board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!