Air Fryer Fried Chicken Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of homemade fried chicken that’s shatteringly crisp but without all the kitchen mess and buckets of oil, Air Fryer Fried Chicken is about to become your new obsession. This recipe brings you classic, juicy-on-the-inside, crunchy-on-the-outside chicken with the bonus of a much lighter, healthier spin. Trust me, once you taste that golden crust and realize how easy (and nearly mess-free) it is, you’ll wonder why you ever heated up a deep fryer.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Air Fryer Fried Chicken is carefully chosen to pack in flavor, achieve the perfect crispiness, and keep things blissfully easy. Here’s what you’ll need, along with why each is a must:

• Chicken pieces: Bone-in, skin-on drumsticks, thighs, or breasts deliver the best combo of flavor and juicy texture.
• Buttermilk: This classic tenderizer keeps chicken moist and infuses it with rich, tangy flavor.
• Hot sauce (optional): Just a teaspoon adds a subtle complexity and kick to the marinade, but you can skip if you prefer mild.
• All-purpose flour: Essential for creating that crispy outer coating we all crave.
• Cornstarch: A little bit of this in the flour mix makes the crust light and extra crunchy.
• Paprika: Adds color and a gentle smoky warmth to every bite.
• Garlic powder: Gives savoriness that boosts the overall flavor profile.
• Onion powder: Layers in more depth and a slight sweetness.
• Salt: Brings all the flavors together so the chicken isn’t bland.
• Black pepper: For a touch of underlying heat and aromatic depth.
• Olive oil spray or cooking spray: Helps create that irresistible golden crust without deep frying.

How to Make Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by getting your chicken as flavorful and juicy as possible. In a large bowl or zip-top bag, combine your chicken pieces with buttermilk and that optional hot sauce. Give everything a good toss or stir, making sure every nook and cranny is coated. Cover it up and let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least an hour—overnight if you really want the magic to happen. This step is where the tenderness begins!

Step 2: Mix the Coating

Grab another bowl and whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This isn’t just your standard breading—the added cornstarch makes for next-level crisp. Give it a quick stir and get ready for dredging action.

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken

With one hand (to avoid a coating catastrophe), lift each piece of chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Drop it straight into your seasoned flour blend. Press the chicken gently into the mixture, ensuring every surface is well covered and the coating will cling through the air fry. Shake off any excess and set each piece aside on a plate.

Step 4: Prep the Air Fryer

For proper crisping, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes. A quick preheat helps seal in the chicken’s juices. Lightly spray your air fryer basket with olive oil spray or any neutral cooking spray—just enough to prevent sticking and encourage browning without soaking it.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Arrange your breaded chicken pieces in the basket, skin side down, careful not to overcrowd (work in batches if you must). Spray the tops with a bit more oil to jumpstart that perfect crust. Air fry for 12–15 minutes, then flip each piece, spray again, and continue cooking for another 10–12 minutes. The best Air Fryer Fried Chicken is done when it’s golden brown and registers 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part. Let your chicken rest for a few minutes—it helps the juices settle, so every bite is spectacular.

How to Serve Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the power of a quick garnish! A scatter of chopped fresh parsley or chives on top not only brightens up the plate but also adds a fresh contrast to the rich, crispy chicken. If you love a pop of zing, try a squeeze of fresh lemon over the top right before serving.

Side Dishes

Air Fryer Fried Chicken pairs beautifully with so many sides. Classic choices like creamy coleslaw, buttery mashed potatoes, or fluffy biscuits make for a down-home feast. Want to keep things lighter? A vibrant mixed green salad or some simply roasted vegetables are a perfect match for all that crispy goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving your chicken as sliders with a dollop of tangy slaw on tiny buns, or slice the chicken and pile it onto waffles with a drizzle of hot honey for the ultimate brunch treat. The golden crust looks especially inviting on a big platter surrounded by bright garnishes—a surefire conversation starter!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Air Fryer Fried Chicken (lucky you!), let it cool completely before storing to help retain that irresistible crunch. Place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, separating layers with parchment if needed to prevent sticking.

Freezing

Air Fryer Fried Chicken freezes surprisingly well. Arrange the cooled pieces on a baking sheet and pop them in the freezer until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container—this keeps the coating from getting soggy. The chicken will keep well for up to two months.

Reheating

To bring back that just-fried crispiness, reheat chicken in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method revives the crust beautifully, far better than the microwave, and ensures the chicken heats evenly all the way through.

FAQs

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken for this Air Fryer Fried Chicken?

You can, but keep in mind the bone and skin provide extra juiciness and flavor. If you use boneless pieces, reduce the cook time by several minutes and check for doneness to avoid drying out the chicken.

Do I have to use buttermilk for the marinade?

If you’re out of buttermilk, you can easily make your own by stirring a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar into a cup of milk (or non-dairy alternative). Let it sit for a minute, and you’re good to go—the goal is to get that same tang and tenderizing magic.

How do I get the coating super crispy in the air fryer?

The real secret is a combo of flour and cornstarch, a preheated air fryer, and a generous but not heavy mist of oil spray. Don’t overcrowd the basket, and make sure to flip and spray halfway through for the best crunch.

Can I double this Air Fryer Fried Chicken recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to cook in batches so each piece gets plenty of air circulation. Overcrowding results in steaming instead of crisping, so patience pays off here.

Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes, with a couple of swaps! Use your favorite gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour and double-check that your cornstarch and spices are certified gluten-free. The coating comes out deliciously crisp, even without wheat flour.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing like the joy of biting into a piece of homemade Air Fryer Fried Chicken—crisp, juicy, and so rewarding without the hassle of deep frying. If you try this recipe, get ready to wow your family and friends, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself making it again (and again!) for any occasion.

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