Air Fryer Southern Fried Chicken Crispy Juicy and Guiltfree

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever get that craving for some down home cookin'? Well, I have! Are you dreaming of crispy, juicy air fryer southern fried chicken ? This recipe brings all the flavour without all the fuss.

It's seriously like a warm hug for your taste buds!

Brief Overview

Southern fried chicken is a true American classic. It's usually deep fried, but we're making it healthier. This air fryer fried chicken recipe is rated medium in difficulty and takes about 2 hours 40 minutes.

It makes about 4 servings.

Main Benefits

This recipe is lower in fat than traditional fried chicken, okay? You can enjoy your cravings without the guilt. Serve this crispy air fryer chicken at a family gathering or a casual dinner.

Honestly, what makes this southern fried chicken air fryer recipe special is how easily you can have this food without a big deep fried mess!

Okay, let's get this Southern fried party started, y'all!

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Ingredients: What You'll Need

Ready to gather your supplies? Here is a detailed list of ingredients! Don't worry, you probably have most of this stuff already.

If not, a quick trip to the shop will solve it!

For the Brine/Marinade: Buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (optional).

For the Chicken: 2 pounds of bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or wings)

For the Breading: All-purpose flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano.

For Air Frying: Cooking spray (avocado or canola oil)

Honestly, the secret ingredient is the love you put into it. Trust me.

Ingredients & Equipment for Air Fryer Southern Fried Chicken

Okay, let's get this Southern fried party started, y'all! We're about to make some seriously tasty air fryer southern fried chicken .

This isn't your average air fryer fried chicken recipe . Forget soggy imitations, this crispy air fryer chicken is the real deal.

I even managed to use my air fryer chicken thighs and it was divine! I even have a friend claiming it's a copycat KFC air fryer chicken.

I am no expert on this, so let's see!

Main Ingredients

For this healthy fried chicken recipe , you'll need:

• Buttermilk Brine: 4 cups (950ml) buttermilk, 2 tablespoons (30ml) hot sauce. The buttermilk is essential! Use a good quality one, not the super thin stuff. You want that tang.
• Chicken: 2 pounds (900g) bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces. Thighs and drumsticks are my fave; they stay juicy. The air fryer chicken drumsticks are incredible.
• Breading: 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons (30ml) cornstarch. Cornstarch is a secret weapon for extra crispiness.

Seasoning Notes

Spice is your friend! A good combo is:

• Essential: Salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder. Don’t skimp!
• Flavor Boosters: Onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano. These add a lovely savory depth.
• Spice It Up: Cayenne pepper, for a kick. Honestly, a little goes a long way! I like to add it at the end for a more even coating.
• Substitution Option: Italian seasoning for the thyme and oregano.

Equipment Needed

Keep it simple:

• Essential: Air fryer. Obviously!
• Bowls: Large bowl for the brine, shallow dishes for breading.
• Household Alternatives: You can use a resealable bag for the brine if you don't have a bowl. Pie plates work great for breading. No need for fancy equipment.

Let's talk air fryers. Not all are created equal. I've got a basket style one, but the oven types are cool too.

Experiment with yours to find the best air fryer chicken settings. If you have a hard time in finding a recipe, then you can start with this easy air fryer chicken recipe .

I promise, once you nail southern fried chicken air fryer style, you'll never look back!

Alright, let's dust off the apron and get this Southern classic ready for the air fryer! We're aiming for that comforting, crispy goodness without the deep fried guilt.

Think Colonel Sanders, but with a healthier twist. Let's get this Southern fried party started, y'all! Here's how to make it.

Cooking Method: Air Fryer Southern Fried Chicken Magic

Craving that classic Southern Fried Chicken flavor but want to skip the deep fryer? This recipe delivers unbelievably crispy air fryer chicken and juicy chicken with all the comforting spices and textures you love, all thanks to the magic of the air fryer.

Forget the oil slick this is Southern comfort food you can feel good about. Honestly, my family practically inhales this stuff!

Prep Steps: Mise en Place Like a Pro

First, gather your ingredients. Essential mise en place includes mixing your wet and dry ingredients in separate bowls. It makes life SO much easier.

I swear, it's like having a sous chef. Safety wise, always wash your hands after handling raw chicken. You know? Simple stuff, but important.

step-by-step Process: Golden Goodness

1. Brine Time: Combine 4 cups buttermilk , 2 tablespoons hot sauce, and the spices. Submerge chicken.
2. Marinate: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours , or overnight for best flavor.
3. Breading Station: Mix 2 cups flour , 2 tablespoons cornstarch and spices in a shallow dish.
4. Dredge: Coat the chicken thoroughly in the flour mixture. Double dredging makes it extra crispy.
5. Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 375° F ( 190° C) . Spray the basket with cooking spray.
6. Cook and Flip: Air fry for 10- 12 minutes , flip, spray again, and cook for another 10- 12 minutes .
7. Check Temperature: Ensure internal temperature reaches 165° F ( 74° C) using a meat thermometer. This is super important for safety.
8. Rest: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips: Secrets to Success

• Don't overcrowd the air fryer! Work in batches for the best air fryer fried chicken recipe .
• A little trick? Pat the chicken dry before breading. The breading will stick better.
• Common mistake to avoid: Don't skip the brine! Buttermilk tenderizes the chicken beautifully.

make-ahead options: You can marinate the chicken overnight. That's a lifesaver on busy weeknights.

This air fryer southern fried chicken is perfect for a weeknight meal. This easy air fryer chicken recipe gives you the best air fryer chicken you can get! Enjoy that crispy goodness! Honestly, try out the recipe and see how good it is!

Recipe Notes for the best Air Fryer Southern Fried Chicken

Okay, let's get this Southern fried party started, y'all! This air fryer southern fried chicken is more than just a recipe; it's a darn good way to get that crispy, juicy copycat KFC air fryer goodness.

I swear, it almost tastes like the real deal but it is healthy fried chicken recipe !

Serving Suggestions That'll Knock Your Socks Off

Let's talk presentation. Plating this crispy air fryer chicken can be super fun. I like to serve it on a wooden board with some paper towels gives it that rustic, Southern vibe, you know?

For sides, classic coleslaw is a must. Mac and cheese? Yes, please! And don't forget some the best mashed potatoes.

To drink, Iced tea or a cold beer, simple as that. Honestly, sometimes I just grab a pickle and call it a day.

Storage Tips: Keeping That Chicken Magic Alive

Got leftovers? Lucky you! To keep your air fryer fried chicken recipe tasting great, pop it in the fridge in an airtight container.

It'll last for about 3-4 days. Freezing? Sure, why not! Wrap each piece individually and they'll stay good for up to 2 months.

Reheating is easy. Throw it back in the air fryer at 350° F ( 175° C) for about 5- 7 minutes, until it's heated through and crispy again.

Don't microwave it unless you want rubber chicken. Honestly, nobody wants that.

Variations: Your Chicken, Your Way

Want to mix things up? You got it! For a dietary twist, you can make a gluten-free version using almond flour.

It changes the flavor a bit, but it’s still tasty. For seasonal fun, try adding some smoked paprika in the fall or lemon pepper in the spring.

Need to make it dairy-free? Use almond milk in your marinade. You know, little tweaks can make a big difference.

Nutrition Basics: A Little Something About the Good Stuff

Let's face it, southern fried chicken air fryer is a treat. But this air fryer version is way better for you than the traditional stuff! It is the easy air fryer chicken recipe of your dreams.

Less fat, fewer calories, still plenty of protein. It's a win-win.

Each serving has about 450-550 calories. Also, with lots of protein from the chicken and that's about it. Remember, you should eat in moderation.

So there you have it! Making air fryer chicken thighs (or drumsticks) has never been easier. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own.

You got this! And your family will think you're a kitchen whiz. 😉

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken for this air fryer southern fried chicken recipe?

While you can use frozen chicken, it's highly recommended to thaw it completely first. Thawing ensures even cooking and allows the buttermilk brine to penetrate the meat, resulting in juicier and more flavorful air fryer southern fried chicken.

Nobody wants chicken that's raw in the middle that's a proper kitchen nightmare!

My air fryer southern fried chicken isn't crispy enough. What am I doing wrong?

Crispiness is key! First, make sure you're not overcrowding the air fryer basket; cook in batches. Generously spray the chicken with cooking oil before and halfway through cooking this helps it brown.

Also, don't skip the cornstarch in the breading; it's like a secret weapon for achieving that satisfying crunch, almost as good as finding a tenner in your old coat!

How do I store leftover air fryer southern fried chicken, and how long will it last?

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for 3-4 days. For the best results, reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to re-crisp the skin. Microwaving tends to make it soggy, and nobody wants that it's like a soggy biscuit with your cuppa!

Can I make this air fryer southern fried chicken recipe spicier?

Absolutely! For extra heat, add more cayenne pepper to both the buttermilk brine and the breading. You could also incorporate a pinch of chipotle powder or some hot paprika into the breading mixture.

Or, for a real kick, use your favorite hot sauce in the buttermilk just like Gordon Ramsay, don't be shy with the flavor!

Is air fryer southern fried chicken actually healthier than deep fried chicken?

Yes, significantly so! Air frying uses far less oil than traditional deep frying. This results in a lower fat and calorie content, making it a lighter and healthier option. You get to enjoy the same great taste of crispy fried chicken without feeling like you've completely blown your diet it's a win-win, almost as good as getting a free upgrade on your flight!

What's the best way to keep my air fryer southern fried chicken warm if I'm cooking in batches?

To keep your cooked chicken warm while you finish cooking the rest, preheat your oven to a low temperature (around 200°F or 95°C). Place the cooked chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet in the warm oven.

This will help maintain its crispiness and temperature until you're ready to serve everything it's like giving your chicken a little spa day before the big show!