Get ready for the best buttermilk fried chicken you’ve ever tasted: air fryer edition

Indulge in the tantalizing taste of authentic buttermilk fried chicken without the hassle of deep-frying. Our air fryer buttermilk fried chicken recipe offers a healthier and equally delectable alternative, delivering crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside perfection.

Ingredients:

• 1 large boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 8 ounces)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces.
• Place the chicken in a bowl and pour the buttermilk over it.
• Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.

2. Create the Coating Mixture:

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.

3. Dredge the Chicken:

• Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and shake off any excess.
• Dredge the chicken pieces in the coating mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.

4. Preheat the Air Fryer:

• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.

5. Cook the Chicken:

• Place the coated chicken pieces in the air fryer basket.
• Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
• Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.

6. Check the Internal Temperature:

• To ensure the chicken is cooked through, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of a chicken piece.
• The internal temperature should read 165°F (74°C).

7. Serve and Enjoy:

• Remove the cooked chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
• Serve with your favorite dipping sauces and sides.

Tips for Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken:

• Use cold buttermilk for marinating the chicken. This helps the coating adhere better.
• Don’t overmix the coating mixture. Overmixing can result in a tough crust.
• Preheat your air fryer before cooking to ensure even cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. This can prevent the chicken from cooking evenly.
• Shake the basket halfway through cooking to promote even browning.
• Check the internal temperature of the chicken before serving to ensure it is cooked through.

Variations:

• Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken: Add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the coating mixture.
• Herbed Buttermilk Fried Chicken: Add 1 tablespoon of your favorite dried herbs to the coating mixture.
• Parmesan Buttermilk Fried Chicken: Add 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese to the coating mixture.

Serving Suggestions:

• Buttermilk fried chicken pairs perfectly with classic sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and biscuits.
• Serve with dipping sauces such as honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing.
• Top with chopped green onions or cilantro for a fresh twist.

Why Use an Air Fryer for Buttermilk Fried Chicken?

• Healthier Alternative: Air frying uses significantly less oil than deep-frying, resulting in a healthier dish.
• Crispy Exterior: The air fryer circulates hot air, creating a crispy and golden-brown exterior.
• Juicy Interior: The buttermilk marinade keeps the chicken moist and juicy on the inside.
• Convenience: Air fryers are easy to use and clean, making them a convenient option for busy home cooks.

Final Thoughts:

Our buttermilk fried chicken recipe air fryer is a culinary masterpiece that delivers the irresistible flavors of Southern comfort food with the convenience and health benefits of air frying. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe will empower you to create mouthwatering buttermilk fried chicken that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

What You Need to Learn

1. Can I use other types of milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, you can use plain yogurt, kefir, or even sour milk as a substitute for buttermilk.

2. How long can I marinate the chicken in buttermilk?

You can marinate the chicken in buttermilk for as little as 4 hours or as long as overnight. Longer marinating times will result in more flavorful chicken.

3. Can I cook the chicken in a regular oven instead of an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.