Air Fryer Fried Chicken Recipe

Air Fryer Fried Chicken Recipe

by

This recipe delivers crispy, flavorful fried chicken with less oil and hassle than traditional frying.

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (cut into 1-inch pieces)
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for coating)

Instructions:

  1. Marinate: In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Add chicken pieces and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
  2. Prepare the Coating: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
  3. Coat the Chicken: Remove chicken pieces from the marinade and gently shake off excess. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
  4. Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil. Arrange chicken pieces in a single layer in the basket, making sure they don’t overlap.
  5. Cook: Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through cooking.
  6. Check and Adjust: Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Adjust cooking time as needed depending on your air fryer model and the size of the chicken pieces.
  7. Rest: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.  
  8. Serve: Enjoy your crispy air fryer fried chicken with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch.

Tips & Variations:

  • For extra crispy skin, increase the air frying time by a couple of minutes.
  • Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.
  • Try coating the chicken with breadcrumbs instead of flour for a different texture.
  • Experiment with different seasonings, such as Italian seasoning, Cajun seasoning, or lemon pepper.
  • You can also use bone-in chicken pieces, but adjust cooking times accordingly.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy air fryer fried chicken!

Leave a Comment