This air fryer fried chicken recipe delivers the crispy and juicy goodness you crave without the hassle of deep frying! It’s a healthier and equally delicious alternative to KFC-style chicken. Air fryers work their magic by reducing the fat and calories in traditionally calorie-dense dishes.
We’ve revamped several classic dishes using the air fryer, from chicken nuggets to turkey bacon, chicken wings, and even grilled cheese. Now, it’s time for the beloved fried chicken to join the lineup!
Why this recipe is a hit:
- Easy prep: No need to go through a lot of hassle with these straightforward steps.
- Quick: Dip, fry, coat, and air fry; it all comes together in mere minutes!
- Healthy: Traditional fried chicken can be loaded with extra fat and calories, but this version trims both down significantly.
- Fuss-free: Fried chicken (or any fried food) can make a mess in the kitchen, but using the air fryer eliminates that entirely!
What I love most about this air fryer fried chicken recipe is that each piece of chicken boasts a crispy exterior and tender, juicy meat inside. Much like oven-fried chicken, this recipe is easy to make and so delicious that it disguises the fact that it’s a healthier version.
Ingredients Needed:
If you’ve ever made fried chicken before, you’ll notice the ingredients are nearly identical, except for all the oil used in deep frying. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Marinade:
- Chicken pieces: Opt for bone-in and skin-on chicken, including a mix of thighs, drumsticks, and breasts.
- Buttermilk: A crucial ingredient in fried chicken, it helps the batter adhere to the chicken.
- Spices: Salt, garlic powder, and pepper.
For the Breading:
- Flour: Either all-purpose flour or wheat flour.
- Cornstarch: It thickens the batter.
- Spices: Salt, pepper, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder.
- Olive Oil spray: For coating the air fryer basket.
How to Make Air Fryer Fried Chicken:
This recipe is quite simple, and the air fryer takes care of the heavy lifting! Ready to whip up some delicious chicken?
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- Combine the spices and buttermilk in a large bowl, along with the chicken.
- Let it sit for at least 10 minutes to thicken.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Mixture
- Whisk together the breading ingredients.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken with the Flour Mixture
- Using tongs, remove chicken pieces from the buttermilk mixture, shaking off excess.
- Quickly dredge the chicken in the flour mixture to ensure both sides are well coated.
Step 4: Air Fry the Fried Chicken
- Generously spray the chicken with cooking spray and place them in a single layer in a greased air fryer basket.
- Air fry at 180°C/350°F for 15 minutes, flip the chicken, spray them again with cooking spray, and cook for another 10 minutes.
- Once the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, it’s ready to serve.
Tips for the Best Recipe:
- Pat the chicken dry before coating it with the marinade and breading mixture to ensure extra crispiness and juiciness.
- Use an instant thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature to prevent overcooking.
- Only add cornstarch as needed to avoid the coating becoming too thick.
- Add a dash of hot sauce to the batter if you want to replicate the spice from our spicy or hot honey chicken sandwiches.
Storage Instructions:
- To store: Use airtight containers to store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To freeze: Place the cooked chicken in freezer-safe bags and freeze for up to 6 months.
- Reheating: You can reheat fried chicken in the air fryer or a preheated oven.
Recommended Tools for this Recipe:
- Air fryer: A reliable one that air fries everything to perfection.
- Tongs: Handy for flipping the chicken.
- Mixing bowls: One for each of the dredging stations.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other cuts of chicken?
- Yes, you can use any chicken cut you prefer, but fattier cuts like thighs, legs, and drumsticks are recommended for juicier results.
- Are air fryers good for frying chicken?
- Air fryers are excellent for frying chicken as they evenly circulate hot air, resulting in juicy and tender meat.
- Is air fryer fried chicken healthy?
- Yes, air fryer fried chicken is a healthier option compared to traditional deep-fried chicken, with significantly fewer fat and calories, while maintaining flavor and texture.
