Crispy and Juicy Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Tags:

air fryer fried chicken, crispy fried chicken recipe, air fryer recipes, healthy fried chicken, quick air fryer meals, juicy chicken in air fryer, easy chicken recipes, family-friendly chicken dishes, no-oil fried chicken, crunchy air fryer chicken

Introduction

Can we all agree that fried chicken holds a special place in our hearts? It’s comfort food at its finest—crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside. But traditional frying? It’s messy, time-consuming, and heavy on the oil. Enter the air fryer: the ultimate game-changer for a healthier, quicker way to enjoy fried chicken without sacrificing flavor or crunch.

In this article, we’re diving into the perfect recipe for Air Fryer Fried Chicken. Get ready for a guilt-free, finger-licking experience that’s just as good as Grandma’s recipe—maybe even better!

What Makes Air Fryer Fried Chicken So Amazing?

Less Oil, Same Crunch: Say goodbye to greasy fingers but keep the satisfying crunch.
Quick and Easy: No need to stand over a hot stove; the air fryer does all the work.
Healthier Option: With minimal oil, this recipe is perfect for indulging without guilt.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

2 lbs chicken drumsticks or thighs (skin-on for extra crispiness)
1 cup buttermilk
1 tsp hot sauce (optional, for a spicy kick)

For the Coating:

1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup cornstarch (for extra crunch)
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp salt

For Cooking:

Olive oil spray

Tools You’ll Need

Air fryer
Mixing bowls
Tongs
Baking sheet or plate

Preparation Tips

Marinate the Chicken: Soaking the chicken in buttermilk makes it incredibly tender and flavorful. Adding hot sauce gives it a subtle heat without overpowering the taste.
Double the Coating: A mix of flour and cornstarch ensures the crispiest crust possible.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they’re fully submerged.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight is even better for deeper flavor).

2. Prepare the Coating

In another bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, and all the spices. Stir well to combine.

3. Coat the Chicken

Remove chicken from the marinade and let excess buttermilk drip off.
Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even, thick coating.
Place the coated chicken on a plate or baking sheet and let it rest for 10 minutes. This helps the coating stick better during cooking.

4. Air Fry the Chicken

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer, leaving space between each piece. Spray the tops lightly with olive oil.
Cook for 15 minutes, then flip the chicken and spray again with oil. Cook for another 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Serving Suggestions

Pair with creamy coleslaw or a fresh green salad for balance.
Serve with classic sides like mashed potatoes or cornbread for a comforting meal.
Add a dipping sauce, like honey mustard or spicy ranch, to elevate the experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air Fryer Fried Chicken isn’t just food—it’s a feeling. It’s the kind of dish that makes you close your eyes with that first bite and smile. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or treating yourself, this recipe is pure joy. And the best part? You can savor it without feeling weighed down by excess oil.

Pro Tips for Success

Don’t overcrowd the air fryer; the hot air needs space to circulate for maximum crispiness.
For extra golden color, add a pinch of turmeric to the flour mixture.
If you want an even thicker crust, double-dip the chicken in the buttermilk and flour mixture.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Fried Chicken is the hero we didn’t know we needed. It’s everything we love about fried chicken—crunchy, juicy, and oh-so-flavorful—without the hassle of deep frying. Try it once, and you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this recipe.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, but keep an eye on the cooking time as boneless pieces cook faster.

2. What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tbsp of vinegar or lemon juice.

3. Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free flour blend and ensure all spices are gluten-free.

4. How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature is 165°F.

5. Can I freeze cooked chicken?
Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to a month. Reheat in the air fryer for the best results.

-->