Indulge in guilt-free fried chicken: try this healthy air fryer recipe today

Indulge in the irresistible crunch and juicy tenderness of homemade fried chicken, without the guilt and mess of deep-frying. Our air fryer fried chicken recipe is a game-changer, offering a healthier and more convenient way to enjoy this classic comfort food.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup buttermilk
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Create the Batter: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg.
3. Bread the Chicken: Dip the coated chicken pieces into the buttermilk mixture, then roll them in the panko breadcrumbs.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
5. Cook the Chicken: Place the breaded chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Flip and Cook: Flip the chicken pieces and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until crispy on both sides.
7. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Success

• Use boneless, skinless chicken: This will ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior.
• Cut the chicken into uniform pieces: This will help them cook evenly.
• Double-coat the chicken: The first coat of flour will help the batter adhere, while the second coat of breadcrumbs will create a crunchy exterior.
• Preheat the air fryer: This will help the chicken cook evenly and prevent sogginess.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Leave some space between the chicken pieces to allow for air circulation.
• Flip the chicken halfway through cooking: This will ensure even browning and crispiness.
• Check for doneness with a meat thermometer: The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).

Marinating the Chicken

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in buttermilk or a mixture of buttermilk and your favorite spices for at least 30 minutes before breading and cooking.

Variations

• Spicy Fried Chicken: Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.
• Lemon-Herb Fried Chicken: Add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest and 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano to the flour mixture.
• BBQ Fried Chicken: Brush the cooked chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your air fryer fried chicken with your favorite sides, such as:

• Mashed potatoes
• Coleslaw
• French fries
• Gravy

“Frying” without the Guilt

Compared to traditional deep-frying, air frying uses significantly less oil, reducing the fat and calorie content of your fried chicken. This makes it a healthier option without sacrificing taste or texture.

FAQ

Q: Can I use other types of breading?

A: Yes, you can use crushed crackers, cornflakes, or even grated Parmesan cheese as breading.

Q: What if I don’t have an air fryer?

A: You can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 425°F (218°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.

Q: Can I freeze the cooked chicken?

A: Yes, let the chicken cool completely, then place it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the air fryer or oven before serving.