Say goodbye to greasy frying: buttermilk fried chicken in air fryer, guilt-free delight

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of buttermilk fried chicken, now made effortlessly in the convenience of your air fryer. This recipe will guide you through every step, from the secret to a perfectly crispy crust to the juicy, tender meat that will leave you craving more.

Ingredients

For the Buttermilk Marinade:

• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Chicken and Coating:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Vegetable oil spray

Instructions

Prepare the Buttermilk Marinade:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together all the ingredients for the buttermilk marinade.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and stir to coat.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.

Prepare the Coating:

1. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Remove the chicken pieces from the marinade and dredge them in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.

Air Fry the Chicken:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the chicken pieces in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching.
3. Spray the chicken with vegetable oil spray.
4. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Flip the chicken halfway through cooking for even browning.

Serve and Enjoy:

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

Tips for Crispy Perfection

• Use buttermilk: Buttermilk is the key to tender, flavorful chicken. It breaks down the proteins in the chicken, resulting in a juicy interior and crispy exterior.
• Marinate for at least 4 hours: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be.
• Double-coat the chicken: Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture twice for a thicker, crispier crust.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Leave space between the chicken pieces to allow for even air circulation and crispiness.
• Spray with oil: Spraying the chicken with oil before air frying helps achieve a golden brown crust.

Variations

• Spicy buttermilk fried chicken: Add more cayenne pepper or chili powder to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.
• Herb-infused buttermilk fried chicken: Add dried herbs to the buttermilk marinade, such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano.
• Cheesy buttermilk fried chicken: Top the cooked chicken with shredded cheese and return to the air fryer for a few minutes until melted.

Serving Suggestions

• Dipping sauces: Serve the buttermilk fried chicken with a variety of dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing.
• Sides: Pair the chicken with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or green beans for a complete meal.
• Sandwiches: Use the buttermilk fried chicken to make delicious sandwiches with your favorite toppings.

Healthier Buttermilk Fried Chicken

• Use low-fat buttermilk: Replace regular buttermilk with low-fat or nonfat buttermilk for a healthier option.
• Bake instead of air fry: Bake the chicken in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes for a healthier alternative.
• Reduce the oil: Spray the chicken lightly with oil or use a cooking spray specifically designed for air fryers.

Takeaways: Buttermilk Fried Chicken Perfection

This buttermilk fried chicken recipe in air fryer is a culinary masterpiece that will satisfy any craving. With its crispy exterior, juicy interior, and effortless preparation, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Experiment with variations and serving suggestions to create your own unique and delectable creations.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

A: Yes, you can substitute regular milk for buttermilk, but the chicken will not be as tender or flavorful.

Q: How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

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

Q: Can I reheat buttermilk fried chicken in the air fryer?

A: Yes, you can reheat the chicken in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.