Place the 8 large eggs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Set the air fryer to 250°F.
Cook the eggs for 15–16 minutes, depending on your air fryer. If you’re unsure how your model cooks, try one egg first to check doneness before cooking a full batch.
When the eggs are done, remove them from the air fryer and run them under cold running water until cool, about 5 minutes.
Finely chop the 1 tablespoon chives or scallions; set aside a small amount of the chopped chives for garnish.
Peel the cooled eggs and chop them into small pieces.
In a bowl, combine 4 tablespoons mayonnaise, 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, and fresh black pepper to taste. Add the chopped chives (except the reserved garnish) and stir to combine.
Add the chopped eggs to the mayonnaise mixture and gently stir until well combined.
Transfer the egg salad to a serving bowl or assemble as desired. Sprinkle 1/8 teaspoon sweet paprika and the reserved chopped chives over the top for garnish.
Serve on bread, crackers, or lettuce leaves, or use to make a sandwich.