This air fryer fried chicken recipe delivers crispy, juicy chicken with significantly less oil than traditional frying methods. It’s a healthier alternative that still satisfies your cravings for comfort food.
The recipe is simple and requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. You can customize the seasoning to your taste for a personalized touch.
Preparing the Chicken
To achieve that perfect crispy texture, start by marinating the chicken. A mixture of buttermilk and spices works wonders in tenderizing the meat while adding flavor.
Combine buttermilk with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. This marinade not only infuses the chicken with taste but also helps the breading adhere better during cooking.
Ensure each piece is well-coated and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. For even better results, consider marinating overnight.
Creating the Perfect Breading
Once the chicken has marinated, it’s time to prepare the breading. In a separate bowl, mix all-purpose flour with baking powder. This combination will give the chicken that desired crunch.
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring a thorough coating. This step is key to achieving that golden-brown finish.
Cooking in the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about five minutes. This ensures the chicken starts cooking immediately, promoting even browning.
Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. A light spray of cooking oil will help achieve that crispy exterior. Cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Keep an eye on the internal temperature, aiming for 165°F (74°C) to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
Serving Suggestions
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
Serve your crispy air fryer fried chicken with a small bowl of your favorite dipping sauce. A side of coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch and a pop of color to the plate.
Nutrition and Enjoyment
This dish serves four and is a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken, clocking in at approximately 320 calories per serving. With 25 grams of protein and only 15 grams of fat, it satisfies cravings without the guilt.
Gather your loved ones around the table to enjoy this inviting meal. The combination of crispy chicken, tangy dipping sauce, and vibrant coleslaw creates a delightful dining experience.
Tips for Success
For an extra kick, feel free to customize the seasoning in the marinade or the breading. Adding cayenne pepper or your favorite herbs can elevate the flavor profile.
Experiment with different dipping sauces to find your perfect match. Whether it’s a classic ranch, spicy mayo, or a tangy barbecue sauce, the options are endless.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of air fryer fried chicken, making it a staple in your meal rotation.
Easy Air Fryer Fried Chicken Recipe
This air fryer fried chicken features marinated chicken pieces coated in a seasoned breading, cooked to golden perfection in the air fryer. The recipe takes about 45 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs or drumsticks, skin-on
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Cooking spray or oil for spraying
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
- Prepare the Breading: In another bowl, mix the flour and baking powder. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge each piece in the flour mixture until fully coated.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Arrange the chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Spray lightly with cooking spray or oil. Cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauces or sides.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinating Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 pieces
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
