Name: Air Fryer Fried Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Chicken:; 1 fryer chicken; 1 tsp kosher salt; 1 tsp ground black pepper; 2 cups buttermilk; For Coating:; 2 cups all purpose flour; 1 tbsp seasoned salt; 1 tbsp kosher salt; 1 tsp ground black pepper; 1 tbsp garlic powder; 1 tbsp paprika; spray olive oil

This tantalizing air fryer fried chicken recipe is the perfect combination of crispy exterior and juicy interior. With the use of an air fryer, you can enjoy this classic comfort food with less oil, making it a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.

Photos of Air Fryer Fried Chicken Recipe

The key ingredient here is buttermilk, which may not be a staple in everyone's refrigerator. It's essential to the recipe as it helps tenderize the chicken, while adding a subtle tanginess. If you can't find it in your local supermarket, you can make your own by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a cup of milk and letting it sit for about 10 minutes.

Key Ingredients for Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Fryer chicken: This is a chicken that weighs between 2.5 to 3.5 pounds, perfect for frying due to its size and the tenderness of the meat.

Kosher salt: Used for seasoning, its larger grain size compared to table salt allows for a more even distribution.

Ground black pepper: Adds a touch of heat to your chicken.

Buttermilk: Acts as a marinade, tenderizing the chicken and giving it a pleasant tang.

All-purpose flour: The main ingredient for the breading. It sticks well to the chicken, ensuring a crispy coating.

Seasoned salt: A blend of table salt, herbs, spices, and other flavorings, it enhances the taste of your chicken.

Garlic powder: Adds an extra savory depth to your breading.

Paprika: Gives a sweet-peppery flavor and adds a golden color to your fried chicken.

Olive oil spray: Used to lightly coat the chicken before air frying to help achieve that golden crispy exterior.

One reader, Almeta Miranda says:

This air fryer fried chicken recipe is a game-changer! The chicken turns out crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The buttermilk marinade adds a delicious flavor, and the seasoning is spot on. Plus, the air fryer makes it healthier without sacrificing taste. I'm hooked!

Almeta Miranda

Techniques Required for Perfect Air Fryer Fried Chicken

How to marinate the chicken: Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then place it in a bowl with buttermilk, ensuring the chicken pieces are fully covered. Let it marinate for at least an hour or up to overnight.

How to bread the chicken: Combine flour, seasoned salt, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to create the breading mixture. Dip the marinated chicken pieces in the flour mix, ensuring they are well coated, then transfer them to a clean plate or wire rack to rest.

How to air-fry the chicken: Spray the basket of the air fryer with nonstick spray. Place the chicken pieces in the basket, ensuring they do not touch. Lightly spray the chicken with oil and air fry at 350°F for 14 minutes, then flip the chicken, spray with oil again, and continue cooking for another 10-12 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F for white meat and 175°F for dark meat.

How to serve: Let the fried chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it with your favorite sides such as salad, coleslaw, or mashed potatoes.

How to store and reheat: Cooked fried chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days and reheated in a 300°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes.

How To Make Air Fryer Fried Chicken

If you’re going for fried chicken but want to avoid all the fat that comes along with it, then this air-fried recipe is for you.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 45 minutes

Marinate Time: 1 hour

Total: 2 hours

Serves:

Ingredients

For Chicken:

4lbsfryer chicken,(cut into 10 pieces,2 breasts cut in half, 2 wings, 2 legs, 2 thighs)
1tspkosher salt
1tspground black pepper
2cupsbuttermilk

For Coating:

2cupsall purpose flour
1tbspseasoned salt
1tbspkosher salt
1tspground black pepper
1tbspgarlic powder
1tbsppaprika
spray olive oil,for cooking

Instructions

Season the chicken well with salt and pepper and then add it to a bowl with buttermilk. Chicken pieces should be covered with the buttermilk. Let it sit for at least an hour or up to overnight.
To prepare the breading mixture, stir together flour, seasoned salt, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Remove chicken pieces from buttermilk and shake off any excess; then dip in the flour mix and coat well. Transfer breaded chicken pieces to a clean plate or wire rack to rest.
Spray the basket of air fryer with nonstick spray. Place half of the pieces in the basket of your air fryer. Try to ensure the pieces don’t touch. Air needs to circulate around them.
Spray the chicken pieces lightly with spray oil. Place the basket in the air fryer and turn the air fryer to 350 degrees F. Cook for 14 minutes, then flip the fried chicken with tongs, spray lightly with oil a second time on the bottom side of the chicken, and cook for another 10 to 12 minutes, until white meat reaches 165 degrees F and dark meat reaches 175 degrees F.
When the fried chicken is ready, let it rest on a plate for a few minutes before serving. Serve immediately with salad, coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or your favorite fried chicken sides!

Nutrition

Calories: 884.73kcal
Fat: 51.35g
Saturated Fat: 14.21g
Trans Fat: 0.29g
Monounsaturated Fat: 22.42g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 10.54g
Carbohydrates: 37.99g
Fiber: 1.86g
Sugar: 4.19g
Protein: 63.76g
Cholesterol: 230.06mg
Sodium: 1008.67mg
Calcium: 141.96mg
Potassium: 794.92mg
Iron: 5.13mg
Vitamin A: 163.54µg
Vitamin C: 5.68mg

Essential Technique Tip for Air Fryer Fried Chicken

When working with an air fryer, it's important to remember that not all models heat the same. Some may require a slightly higher temperature or longer cooking time to achieve the desired crispiness on your fried chicken. Therefore, it's always a good idea to check the internal temperature of your chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it's fully cooked. Additionally, spraying a light coat of oil on the chicken not only helps the breading to crisp up, but also prevents it from drying out. Remember, the key to a perfect air fryer fried chicken is a balance between a crispy exterior and a juicy, tender interior.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Marinate the chicken: Marinate the chicken in buttermilk overnight to ensure maximum flavor and tenderness.

Prep the breading: Prepare the breading mixture in advance to streamline the coating process.

Batch cooking: Cook the chicken in batches to ensure even cooking and crispy results.

Use a meat thermometer: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through without overcooking.

Reheating: Cooked fried chicken can be stored in the fridge for 5 days and reheated in a 300°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes for a quick meal.

Substitute Ingredients For Air Fryer Fried Chicken Recipe

Fryer chicken - Substitute with chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, and they work well for frying.
Kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar texture and flavor profile to kosher salt, making it a suitable replacement.
Ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and can be used as a substitute for black pepper in this recipe.
Buttermilk - Substitute with plain yogurt mixed with milk: This combination can mimic the tangy flavor and creamy texture of buttermilk.
All purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour: For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for all-purpose flour.
Seasoned salt - Substitute with garlic salt and onion powder: Create a similar seasoned salt flavor by combining garlic salt and onion powder.
Garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder can provide a similar savory flavor to the dish as garlic powder.
Paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika can add a rich, smoky flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall taste.

Presenting Your Delicious Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Elevate the plating: Arrange the fried chicken pieces on a large platter, ensuring they are evenly spaced and presented in an appealing manner.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the fried chicken with freshly chopped parsley or chives to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Accompany with a dipping sauce: Serve the fried chicken with a side of homemade honey mustard or a tangy barbecue sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Incorporate a variety of textures: Consider adding a side of crunchy pickles or a refreshing slaw to complement the crispy exterior of the fried chicken.
Add a touch of elegance: Place the fried chicken on a bed of vibrant lettuce leaves or edible flowers to enhance the visual appeal of the dish.

Essential Tools for Making Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Air fryer: An air fryer is a kitchen appliance that cooks by circulating hot air around the food, creating a crispy layer similar to frying, but using little to no oil.
Meat thermometer: A meat thermometer is used to measure the internal temperature of meat and poultry, ensuring that it has reached a safe temperature for consumption.
Tongs: Tongs are a versatile kitchen tool used for gripping and lifting foods, particularly when frying or grilling.
Wire rack: A wire rack is used for cooling and draining fried foods, allowing air to circulate around the food to maintain its crispiness.

Storing and Freezing Your Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Here are the detailed storing and freezing guidelines for air fryer fried chicken:

Let the fried chicken cool completely before storing. This will prevent the chicken from becoming soggy due to condensation.
Place the cooled fried chicken in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. If using a container, make sure to line the bottom with a paper towel to absorb any excess moisture.
Store the fried chicken in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When ready to eat, reheat the chicken in a preheated 300°F (150°C) oven for 8-10 minutes or until heated through.
To freeze the fried chicken, place the cooled pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure the pieces are not touching each other to prevent them from freezing together.
Place the baking sheet with the fried chicken in the freezer for 1-2 hours, or until the pieces are frozen solid. This initial freezing step will help prevent the chicken from sticking together when stored in a container or bag.
Once frozen, transfer the fried chicken pieces to a freezer-safe airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
Frozen fried chicken can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, remove the desired number of pieces from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
To reheat frozen fried chicken, place the thawed pieces on a baking sheet and heat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Alternatively, you can reheat the chicken in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

How To Reheat Leftover Air Fryer Fried Chicken

The best way to reheat leftover air fryer fried chicken is to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken pieces on a wire rack set over a baking sheet, ensuring that they are not touching each other. This allows the hot air to circulate around the chicken, helping it to crisp up again.
Bake the fried chicken for about 10-15 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The exact time will depend on the size and thickness of your chicken pieces. Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable way to ensure that your chicken is heated through without drying out.
If you want to add some extra flavor and moisture to your reheated fried chicken, you can brush it lightly with some melted butter or olive oil before placing it in the oven. This will help to revitalize the crispy coating and keep the meat juicy.
Another option is to reheat your fried chicken in the air fryer itself. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and place the chicken pieces in the basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Cook for 4-5 minutes, then flip the pieces over and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
Avoid using the microwave to reheat your fried chicken, as this will make the coating soggy and the meat tough. The oven or air fryer methods are much better at restoring the crispy texture and keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.

Interesting Fact About Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Air fryer fried chicken is a popular dish that offers a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. It is cooked by circulating hot air around the chicken, resulting in a crispy exterior and juicy interior. This cooking method significantly reduces the amount of oil used, making it a healthier option for those who enjoy fried chicken.

Is Making Air Fryer Fried Chicken Economical for Home Cooking?

This air fryer fried chicken recipe is cost-effective for a household. The use of a whole chicken and basic pantry staples keeps the cost low. The versatility of a whole chicken allows for utilizing different cuts, making it a budget-friendly option. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$15, depending on the chicken's size and local ingredient prices. The overall verdict for this recipe is 9/10, considering its affordability, delicious taste, and ease of preparation.

Is Air Fryer Fried Chicken Healthy or Unhealthy?

The air fryer fried chicken recipe, while tasty, is not particularly healthy due to several factors:

The chicken is marinated in buttermilk, which adds calories and fat to the dish
The breading mixture contains a significant amount of salt, which can contribute to high blood pressure and other health issues when consumed in excess
Frying the chicken, even in an air fryer, still requires oil, which adds additional fat and calories to the meal

However, there are some positive aspects to this recipe:

Using an air fryer instead of traditional deep-frying methods reduces the amount of oil needed, making it a slightly healthier option
The recipe includes spices like garlic powder and paprika, which can provide some health benefits and flavor without adding extra calories

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace the buttermilk marinade with a low-fat yogurt or buttermilk alternative to reduce the calorie and fat content
Reduce the amount of salt in the breading mixture by half, and consider replacing some of the salt with other flavorful spices like cumin, chili powder, or herbs
Experiment with using a whole grain flour or a combination of whole grain and all-purpose flour in the breading mixture to increase the fiber content
Spray the chicken with a minimal amount of oil before air frying to further reduce the fat content
Serve the fried chicken with a variety of nutrient-dense side dishes, such as a fresh garden salad, roasted vegetables, or a whole grain like quinoa or brown rice, to create a more balanced meal

Editor's Opinion on This Air Fryer Fried Chicken Recipe

The air fryer fried chicken recipe is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. The buttermilk marinade ensures juicy, flavorful chicken, while the seasoned flour coating adds a satisfying crunch. The air frying method produces a crispy exterior without the need for excessive oil, resulting in a healthier yet still indulgent dish. The step-by-step instructions are clear and easy to follow, making this recipe accessible for home cooks of all skill levels. Whether served with traditional sides or incorporated into a variety of dishes, this air fryer fried chicken is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Enhance Your Air Fryer Fried Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes with a hint of parmesan cheese and chives, served with a dollop of butter on top.

Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw made with a tangy apple cider vinegar dressing, mixed with shredded carrots and red cabbage for a pop of color and flavor.

Salad: Fresh mixed greens tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette, topped with ripe cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for added crunch.

Cornbread: Moist and buttery cornbread muffins, made with a touch of honey for a hint of sweetness and served with a side of whipped honey butter for extra indulgence.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Create a colorful and flavorful dish by grilling a variety of vegetables on skewers, perfect for a summer barbecue or as a side dish for any meal.

Braised Beef Stew: Enjoy a hearty and comforting beef stew that is slow-cooked to perfection, with tender meat and flavorful vegetables in a rich and savory broth.

Mango Coconut Popsicles: Cool off with homemade popsicles made with fresh mango and creamy coconut milk, a refreshing and tropical treat for hot days.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Indulge in a velvety smooth tomato soup infused with aromatic basil, perfect for a cozy and satisfying meal on a chilly day.

Chocolate Lava Cake: Satisfy your sweet tooth with a decadent chocolate lava cake that oozes with molten chocolate, a luxurious dessert for any occasion.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts for Your Air Fryer Fried Chicken Meal

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. They're the perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Indulge in the creamy goodness of this spinach and artichoke dip, served with crispy tortilla chips for dipping. It's a crowd-pleasing appetizer that will leave everyone coming back for more.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This elegant dessert is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner at home.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender baked apples and a crispy oat topping. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate sweet treat.

Why trust this Air Fryer Fried Chicken Recipe:

This air fryer fried chicken recipe is a must-try for any fried chicken enthusiast. The buttermilk marinade ensures tender and juicy meat, while the flavorful coating, featuring seasoned salt, garlic powder, and paprika, guarantees a crispy and delicious finish. The use of an air fryer not only reduces the amount of oil needed but also ensures a healthier cooking method. With clear instructions and helpful tips, this recipe promises a foolproof way to achieve restaurant-quality fried chicken at home. Trust in the combination of traditional techniques and modern cooking technology for a delightful dining experience.

Share your thoughts on this Air Fryer Fried Chicken Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use boneless chicken for this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as boneless chicken tends to cook faster than bone-in chicken.

Can I use a different type of flour for the coating?

Absolutely! You can use alternative flours such as whole wheat flour, almond flour, or even gluten-free flour if you have dietary restrictions. The flavor and texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.

Can I marinate the chicken for longer than overnight?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken for longer than overnight if you prefer. The buttermilk helps to tenderize the chicken, so marinating it for an extended period can enhance the flavor and texture even more.

Can I use a different seasoning for the breading?

Of course! Feel free to customize the seasoning to your preference. You can add herbs like thyme or oregano, or even a bit of cayenne pepper for some heat. Get creative and make it your own!

Can I use a different cooking method if I don't have an air fryer?

Absolutely! If you don't have an air fryer, you can still make delicious fried chicken by using a traditional deep-frying method or even baking it in the oven. Adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly based on the method you choose.