This air fryer fried chicken gives you that crispy, crunchy exterior with tender, juicy meat inside, all without the mess of deep frying. A healthier yet delicious alternative!
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs (or drumsticks)
- 1 cup buttermilk (or regular milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or cooking spray
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, mix buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken thighs (or drumsticks) to the bowl, ensuring they’re fully coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for more flavor.
2. Prepare the Breading:
- In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, baking powder, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure a good coat.
3. Air Fry the Chicken:
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil or cooking spray.
- Place the breaded chicken pieces in the basket in a single layer, leaving some space between them.
- Spray the top of the chicken with a little more olive oil for extra crispiness.
- Air fry the chicken at 380°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Serve:
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for Crispy Chicken:
✅ Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation.
✅ For an extra crispy coating, lightly spray the chicken with oil before and halfway through cooking.
✅ Adjust the cooking time depending on the size of the chicken pieces. Larger pieces may need more time.
Serving Suggestions:
🍚 Serve with mashed potatoes and gravy
🥗 Pair with a fresh salad or coleslaw
🍞 Enjoy with a side of cornbread
Enjoy your crispy, juicy air fryer fried chicken! 🍗✨