Easy Air Fryer Chicken Recipes

Introduction to Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Air fryer fried chicken offers the same irresistible crunch and succulent juiciness as traditional fried chicken but with significantly less oil, making it a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste. When it comes to indulging in the crispy, flavorful goodness of fried chicken, the air fryer has revolutionized the game.

What is air fryer fried chicken?

Air fryer fried chicken is a cooking method that utilizes hot air circulation to create a crispy outer layer while locking in the natural juices of the chicken. This is achieved by coating the chicken with a light layer of oil and then air frying it at a high temperature, resulting in a deliciously crunchy texture reminiscent of deep-fried chicken.

Benefits of using an air fryer for fried chicken

Using an air fryer for fried chicken offers several advantages. Firstly, it significantly reduces the amount of oil needed for frying, making it a healthier option.

Additionally, air fryers are convenient and efficient, requiring less time and effort compared to traditional frying methods. Moreover, air fryer fried chicken produces less mess and is generally safer to prepare, as there is no risk of hot oil splattering.

Why perfecting air fryer fried chicken is worth it

Perfecting air fryer fried chicken is worth the effort because it allows you to enjoy a beloved comfort food with a healthier twist. By mastering the art of air frying chicken, you can savor the satisfaction of achieving a crispy, golden-brown exterior while relishing the tender, juicy meat inside.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or entertaining guests, mastering the art of air fryer fried chicken is sure to impress and satisfy.

Choosing the Right Chicken Cuts for Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Best chicken cuts for air fryer fried chicken

When it comes to air fryer fried chicken, bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces such as thighs, drumsticks, and wings are ideal choices. The bone and skin help retain moisture and flavor during the air frying process, resulting in juicier and more flavorful chicken.

Tips for preparing the chicken cuts for optimal results

Before air frying, it’s essential to pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the seasoning and coating adhere better to the chicken, resulting in a crispier exterior.

Additionally, allowing the chicken to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before air frying promotes more even cooking.

Tips for Preparing the Perfect Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Importance of marinating the chicken

Marinating the chicken before air frying not only infuses it with flavor but also helps tenderize the meat. A buttermilk marinade, for example, can work wonders in adding richness and tanginess to the chicken while keeping it moist and tender.

Seasoning tips for flavorful air fryer fried chicken

To achieve flavorful air fryer fried chicken, generously season the chicken with a blend of spices such as paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This creates a well-rounded flavor profile that complements the crispy exterior.

Coating techniques for achieving crispy perfection

For a crispy coating, dredge the seasoned chicken in a mixture of flour and cornstarch before air frying. This combination creates a light and crunchy crust that crisps up beautifully in the air fryer.

Cooking Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Setting the right temperature and time for air frying chicken

Preheat the air fryer to around 370°F (185°C) before adding the chicken. Depending on the cut and size of the chicken pieces, air fry for approximately 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time for even browning.

Flipping and shaking the chicken for even cooking

To ensure uniform crispiness, flip the chicken pieces halfway through the cooking time. Additionally, gently shake the air fryer basket to promote even browning on all sides of the chicken.

Using oil spray for enhanced crispiness

Lightly spritzing the chicken with oil spray before air frying can enhance the crispiness of the exterior, resulting in a delectably crunchy texture.

Mouthwatering Air Fryer Fried Chicken Recipes

Classic Buttermilk Fried Chicken

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• Oil spray

1. In a bowl, combine buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the flour and cornstarch.
4. Dredge the marinated chicken thighs in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
5. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the chicken thighs with oil and place them in the air fryer basket.
6. Air fry for 25 minutes, flipping the chicken thighs halfway through the cooking time for even browning.

Spicy Nashville Hot Chicken

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Oil spray

1. In a bowl, combine buttermilk and hot sauce.
2. Add the chicken drumsticks to the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the flour, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
4. Dredge the marinated chicken drumsticks in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
5. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the chicken drumsticks with oil and place them in the air fryer basket.
6. Air fry for 20 minutes, flipping the chicken drumsticks halfway through the cooking time for even browning.

Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

• 1 lb chicken tenders
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 eggs, beaten
• Oil spray

1. In a bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dredge the chicken tenders in the beaten eggs, then coat them in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the chicken tenders with oil and place them in the air fryer basket.
4. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping the chicken tenders halfway through the cooking time for even browning.

Serving and Pairing Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Best side dishes to serve with air fryer fried chicken

Air fryer fried chicken pairs wonderfully with classic sides such as coleslaw, macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes, and cornbread. For a lighter option, consider serving it with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables.

Beverage pairing recommendations for a complete meal

To complement the savory flavors of air fryer fried chicken, consider serving it with a refreshing beverage such as iced tea, lemonade, or a crisp lager. For those who prefer a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a splash of citrus can provide a delightful contrast to the richness of the chicken.

Conclusion

Perfecting air fryer fried chicken is a rewarding culinary endeavor that allows you to savor the crispy, flavorful delight of southern fried chicken with a healthier twist. By choosing the right chicken cuts, mastering the preparation and cooking techniques, and exploring mouthwatering recipes, you can elevate your air fryer fried chicken game to new heights.

Whether you’re a fan of classic buttermilk fried chicken, crave the fiery heat of Nashville hot chicken, or prefer the crunch of garlic parmesan chicken tenders, the air fryer offers endless possibilities for creating crispy perfection.

So, roll up your sleeves, fire up your air fryer, and embark on a journey to achieve irresistibly crispy and flavorful fried chicken that will have everyone asking for seconds.