air fryer fried chicken
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.
