How To: Easy Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Crispy easy air fryer fried chicken on a plate

Are you craving the crispy, golden goodness of fried chicken but dreading the mess and calories of traditional deep-frying? Enter the air fryer, your new best friend in the kitchen. With this easy air fryer fried chicken recipe, you can enjoy the classic taste and texture of fried chicken without the guilt or hassle. Let's dive in and discover how simple and satisfying healthy fried chicken can be!

Why Choose Air Fryer Fried Chicken?

Imagine biting into a piece of fried chicken that's perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, all without the excess oil and calories. That's the magic of air fryer fried chicken. This kitchen gadget uses hot air to cook food, mimicking the crispiness of deep-frying with a fraction of the oil. It's a game-changer for anyone looking for a healthier, quicker alternative to traditional fried chicken.

Ingredients for Easy Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Before we get started, let's gather our ingredients. You'll need:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1/2 cup buttermilk
1 egg
Cooking spray

Step-by-Step Guide to Crispy Air Fryer Chicken

Preparing the Chicken

First, pat your chicken dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy exterior. Think of it like painting a wall—you need a dry surface for the best results.

Seasoning the Flour

In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to ensure all the flavors are evenly distributed.

Creating the Buttermilk Mixture

In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg. This mixture will help the flour coating stick to the chicken, creating a delicious, crispy crust.

Coating the Chicken

Dip each piece of chicken into the buttermilk mixture, making sure it's fully coated. Then, dredge the chicken in the seasoned flour, pressing gently to ensure the flour adheres. Shake off any excess flour and place the coated chicken on a plate.

Preheating the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the chicken starts cooking immediately, which helps achieve that perfect crispiness.

Cooking the Chicken

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated chicken pieces in the basket, making sure they don't overlap. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and crispy.

Checking for Doneness

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This is the safe temperature for cooked chicken, ensuring it's both delicious and safe to eat.

Air Fryer Tips for Perfect Fried Chicken

Don't Overcrowd the Basket: Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and less crispiness. Give each piece of chicken enough space to cook evenly.
Shake the Basket: Gently shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even crispiness on all sides.
Use Cooking Spray: A light coating of cooking spray helps achieve that golden, crispy exterior without adding too much oil.

Serving Your Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Your crispy air fryer chicken is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh salad. The possibilities are endless, and you can customize your meal to suit your tastes.

Health Benefits of Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Air fryer fried chicken is not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried chicken. By using less oil, you reduce the calorie and fat content, making it a more nutritious option. Plus, the air fryer retains the chicken's natural juices, keeping it tender and flavorful.

Conclusion

With this easy air fryer fried chicken recipe, you can enjoy the classic taste of fried chicken without the guilt or hassle. The air fryer makes it simple to achieve crispy, golden perfection with minimal effort. So, why not give it a try and elevate your fried chicken game? Your taste buds (and your waistline) will thank you!

FAQs

Can I use chicken with bones for this recipe? Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure it's fully cooked.
What if I don't have buttermilk? You can make a buttermilk substitute by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Can I reheat air fryer fried chicken? Yes, you can reheat it in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
How do I store leftover air fryer fried chicken? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze air fryer fried chicken? Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Now that you have all the tips and tricks, it's time to get cooking! Enjoy your crispy, delicious air fryer fried chicken.