Air fryer fried chicken recipe: crispy and juicy without the guilt!

Indulge in the crispy, succulent goodness of fried chicken without the guilt or mess of deep frying. Our air fryer fried chicken recipe empowers you to create restaurant-quality fried chicken in the comfort of your own kitchen. With just a few simple steps and the magic of your air fryer, you’ll savor every bite of this mouthwatering dish.

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (3-4 pounds), cut into 8 pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

• Rinse the chicken pieces thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels.
• Remove any excess fat or skin.

2. Create the Seasoning Mix

• In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
• Mix well to evenly distribute the seasonings.

3. Bread the Chicken

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg.
• Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk mixture, ensuring it is fully coated.
• Dredge the buttermilk-coated chicken in the seasoning mix, pressing gently to adhere the breading.

4. Air Fry the Chicken

• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
• Place the breaded chicken pieces in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between them.
• Air fry for 15 minutes, then flip the chicken and air fry for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

5. Check for Doneness

• Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken.
• The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

6. Rest and Serve

• Remove the cooked chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
• This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.

7. Enjoy

• Serve your air fryer fried chicken with your favorite dipping sauces and sides.
• Savor the crispy exterior and juicy interior, knowing you’ve created a restaurant-worthy meal in your own kitchen.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Fried Chicken

• Use a good quality air fryer for optimal results.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary.
• Adjust the cooking time and temperature slightly based on the size and thickness of your chicken pieces.
• If desired, you can double the recipe to make a larger batch.
• Experiment with different seasonings to create your own unique flavor profiles.

Variations

• Spicy Fried Chicken: Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix.
• Buttermilk Fried Chicken: Use all buttermilk instead of half buttermilk and half egg in the breading.
• Gluten-Free Fried Chicken: Substitute gluten-free flour for the all-purpose flour in the breading.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair your air fryer fried chicken with classic sides like mashed potatoes, gravy, and coleslaw.
• Serve it on a sandwich with your favorite toppings.
• Enjoy it as a main course with roasted vegetables or a salad.

Final Thoughts: A Finger-Licking Good Experience

With our air fryer fried chicken recipe, you can relish the crispy, juicy goodness of fried chicken without the guilt or hassle of deep frying. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a comforting meal, this recipe will surely satisfy your taste buds. So, gather your ingredients, dust off your air fryer, and embark on a culinary adventure that will leave you licking your fingers and yearning for more.

Answers to Your Questions

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. However, it’s important to thaw it completely before breading and air frying.

2. How do I make sure the chicken is cooked through?

Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

3. Can I use different seasonings?

Absolutely! Experiment with different herbs, spices, and seasonings to create your own unique flavor combinations.

4. How long can I store leftover fried chicken?

Leftover fried chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the air fryer or oven before serving.

5. What are some dipping sauce ideas?

Try classic dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce. You can also create your own dipping sauces by combining different flavors and ingredients.