If you have been craving that perfect combination of crispy crust and juicy, tender chicken without the guilt of deep frying, then this Air Fryer Fried Chicken Recipe is going to become your new best friend in the kitchen. It uses the magic of the air fryer to deliver all the crunchy goodness you expect from fried chicken but with a fraction of the oil. The secret is in the buttermilk marinade and the perfectly seasoned flour coating that crisps up to golden perfection, making every bite an absolute delight. Whether you’re feeding the family or impressing guests, this recipe hits all the right notes of comfort food done right.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting these ingredients together is simple, and each one plays a crucial role in creating that authentic fried chicken flavor and texture. From the tangy buttermilk which tenderizes the chicken, to the blend of spices that give it that irresistible aroma and color, every component is essential.
- 2 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces: Choose drumsticks, thighs, or breasts for variety and juicy meat.
- 1 cup buttermilk: This tenderizes the chicken and adds a subtle tang that makes the coating stick perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional): Adds a gentle kick to the marinade for those who love a little heat.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the coating that turns crispy in the air fryer.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds smokiness and beautiful color to the crust.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses savory flavor every time you bite.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Balances the garlic and deepens the aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a peppery bite essential for seasoning.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Gives just a touch of warmth without overpowering.
- Olive oil spray: Helps everything crisp up nicely without extra grease.
How to Make Air Fryer Fried Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
First, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce in a large bowl for a marinade that tenderizes and warms up the flavor profile. Toss your chicken pieces in the mixture, making sure each piece gets fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour, though leaving it overnight will let the flavors soak in deeply, making the chicken even juicier.
Step 2: Prepare the Seasoned Flour Coating
While your chicken is marinating, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a shallow dish. This blend adds that restaurant-quality seasoning and crispness to the chicken’s outer shell.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Remove each piece of chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off so the coating sticks just right without becoming soggy. Dredge the chicken thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture until every nook and cranny is covered in that flavorful, crispy batter. For an extra crunchy crust, you can double dip by returning the coated chicken to the buttermilk, then flour again.
Step 4: Preheat and Prepare the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and let it preheat for about five minutes. Lightly spray the basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking and promote a golden, crunchy exterior on your fried chicken.
Step 5: Cook the Chicken
Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer in the basket, keeping the skin side down if using skin-on pieces for optimal crispiness. Spray the tops of the chicken lightly with olive oil spray as well. Air fry for 12 minutes, then carefully flip each piece, spray again, and continue cooking for another 10 to 15 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit and has a beautiful golden crust.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, let your chicken rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute and the crust to set. This resting step makes every bite flavorful and moist.
How to Serve Air Fryer Fried Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or green onions instantly brightens the look and adds a subtle fresh flavor that balances the richness of fried chicken beautifully. Lemon wedges are also fantastic if you like a zesty twist just before digging in.
Side Dishes
This crispy fried chicken pairs wonderfully with classic sides such as creamy coleslaw, buttery mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a wholesome, satisfying meal. Don’t forget a warm biscuit or cornbread to soak up any extra goodness!
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, consider serving your Air Fryer Fried Chicken Recipe on a bed of waffle fries topped with a drizzle of spicy honey mustard or alongside a crunchy cabbage slaw for a Southern-inspired twist. Even slicing the chicken pieces and making sliders with pickles and aioli makes for an irresistible party snack.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping the chicken slightly elevated on a wire rack inside the container helps maintain its crispiness and prevents sogginess.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked Air Fryer Fried Chicken Recipe pieces for up to one month. Wrap them individually in foil or plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag to lock in flavor and texture for later enjoyment.
Reheating
The best way to reheat leftover fried chicken is back in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 to 8 minutes. This method revives the crisp exterior without drying out the tender meat inside, unlike a microwave.
FAQs
Can I use skinless chicken for this Air Fryer Fried Chicken Recipe?
Yes, skinless chicken can be used if you prefer, but it won’t be quite as crispy. The skin adds a wonderful crunch and helps lock in the juices, so keep that in mind when choosing your pieces.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute by adding one tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to one cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes before using it in the marinade.
How spicy is this recipe?
The recipe calls for just a 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, which gives a subtle warmth without overwhelming heat. If you like it spicier, feel free to increase the cayenne or hot sauce according to your taste.
Can I cook this chicken in a regular oven instead of an air fryer?
You can, but the texture will be different. Baking at a high temperature (around 425°F) on a wire rack can get you close, but the air fryer excels at delivering that distinct crispiness with less oil.
Is it necessary to preheat the air fryer?
Preheating ensures that cooking starts at the right temperature and helps the chicken develop a crisp exterior faster. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in the final texture.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Fried Chicken Recipe has everything you want in a meal: flavor, texture, and ease, all wrapped up in one crave-worthy dish. The air fryer makes it possible to enjoy your favorite comfort food with less mess and less fat but all the fun. I strongly encourage you to give this recipe a try and watch how it quickly becomes a staple in your dinner rotation!
Print
Air Fryer Fried Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus at least 1 hour marinating)
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Dairy-Free option available
Description
This Air Fryer Fried Chicken recipe offers a healthier twist on the classic fried chicken by using an air fryer for a crispy, golden crust without deep frying. Marinated in buttermilk and seasoned flour, the chicken is tender, juicy, and full of flavor with a perfect crunch.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, or breasts)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
Dry Coating
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Additional
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce (if using). Add the chicken pieces and toss to fully coat. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to tenderize the chicken and infuse flavor.
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, mix together the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to create a well-seasoned flour mixture for coating.
- Coat the Chicken: Remove each piece of chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Dredge the chicken thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture until well coated on all sides.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for about 5 minutes to ensure it is hot and ready for cooking.
- Arrange and Oil the Basket: Spray the air fryer basket lightly with olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated chicken pieces in a single layer in the basket, skin side down if using skin-on pieces. Spray the tops of the chicken lightly with olive oil spray to help achieve a crispy exterior.
- Air Fry the Chicken: Cook the chicken for 12 minutes at 375°F. After 12 minutes, carefully flip the chicken pieces, spray them again with olive oil spray, then continue cooking for an additional 10–15 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring moist and flavorful pieces.
Notes
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure the chicken cooks evenly and becomes crispy.
- For an extra crunchy coating, consider double-dipping the chicken back into the buttermilk and then into the flour mixture again before cooking.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper according to your preferred spice level.
- You can use skinless chicken, but keep in mind it will produce a less crispy texture.
