Air Fryer Fried Chicken Crispy Juicy and Easy

Recipe Introduction

Fancy some air fryer fried chicken that's ruddy delicious? You know, the kind that makes your taste buds sing? I remember the first time I tried making fried chicken.

It was a proper disaster! But fear not, this recipe is a game changer.

This air fryer fried chicken recipe gives you that amazing crispy, crunchy texture. It's proper flavorful and juicy on the inside.

It's basically the best air fryer fried chicken you'll ever make. No joke!

Proper Good Fried Chicken: The Air Fryer Way

Fried chicken is the quintessential comfort food. The history goes back centuries and is a big part of Southern USA cooking.

This version is easy peasy, taking about 45 minutes start to finish. It serves 4 hungry people.

Why This Air Fryer Fried Chicken Is Boss

This recipe for crispy fried chicken in air fryer is a healthy air fryer chicken recipe option. It's way less greasy.

It’s brilliant for a casual get together. Or, maybe a Friday night treat. What makes it special? We're using a proper marinade.

Ready for the goodies? Here’s what you'll need to make cracking easy air fryer fried chicken using chicken breast, or chicken thighs -your call.

Don't worry if you want to skip the breading - this air fryer fried chicken without breading works a treat too!

Ingredients & Equipment for Easy Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Let's get down to brass tacks, shall we? To make this best air fryer fried chicken , you won't need a ton of fancy stuff.

I promise! I once tried making something similar without all the spices. Honestly? Disaster! So, stick to the list.

Main Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s what you'll need to whip up a batch of seriously good air fryer fried chicken :

• Chicken: 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts. I prefer thighs for that extra juicy goodness.
• Buttermilk: 1 cup (240ml) . This is key for tender chicken. If you can't find buttermilk, add a tablespoon of lemon juice to regular milk and let it sit for 5 minutes. Works a treat!
• Hot Sauce: 1 tablespoon (15ml) . I like Frank's RedHot, but your favourite works.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon (5ml) .
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) .
• Garlic Powder: ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) .
• Flour: 1 cup (120g) all-purpose.
• Cornstarch: ¼ cup (30g) . This helps with the crisp factor.
• Paprika: 1 tablespoon (15ml) .
• Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon (5ml) .
• Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon (5ml) .
• Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon (5ml) .
• Salt: 1 teaspoon (5ml) .
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) .
• Cayenne Pepper: ¼ teaspoon (1.25ml) (optional, for a kick).
• Eggs: 2 large , beaten.
• Milk: 2 tablespoons (30ml) .
• Cooking Spray: Olive oil or avocado oil.

Seasoning Notes: Let's talk Flavor!

The secret to crispy fried chicken in air fryer perfection is the seasoning. Don't skimp!

• Spice Combo: Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper are your foundation. The cayenne pepper adds a lovely warmth.
• Flavor Enhancers: A little hot sauce in the buttermilk marinade adds a subtle zing.
• Quick Subs: No thyme? Use oregano! Out of onion powder? A bit of grated onion will do in a pinch. Making Air fryer fried chicken without breading , is another story, we keep that for another article, alright?

Equipment Needed: No Fuss Here!

For this fried chicken recipe in air fryer , you really don't need loads of gear.

• Air Fryer: Obviously!
• Shallow Bowls: For your breading station. Plates work just as well.
• Whisk: For the eggs. A fork is fine if you don't have a whisk.
• Tongs: To flip the chicken.
• A meat thermometer

That's it! Now you're all set to make the healthy air fryer chicken recipe of your dreams! Let's make this homemade air fryer fried chicken , shall we? Are you excited about this air-fried boneless chicken breast ?

Air Fryer Fried Chicken: So Easy, It's Bonkers!

Fancy some Easy Air Fryer Fried Chicken ? I know I do! Honestly, I used to think proper fried chicken meant battling a vat of bubbling oil.

But blimey, the air fryer changed everything! This recipe gives you that satisfying crunch without all the guilt. Think Crispy Fried Chicken In Air Fryer , but healthier.

It's a game changer!

Prep Like a Pro

• Mise en place is your best mate here. Get everything chopped, measured, and ready to go. It sounds boring, but makes life so much easier!
• Got boneless chicken breasts or even chicken thighs? Cut them into similar sizes. They will cook evenly, so no one gets stuck with a raw bit!
• For an Air fryer chicken thighs recipe , leave the skin on - extra crispy!
• Remember, raw chicken can be a bit cheeky, so wash your hands well after handling it.
• Marinating the chicken is so important. It adds flavor and keeps it juicy.

The Magic Steps

1. Brine the chicken : Mix one cup of buttermilk with a tablespoon of hot sauce, and spices. Submerge the chicken. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes .
2. Bread Station : Combine one cup of flour with spices. In a separate bowl, whisk two eggs with two tablespoons of milk.
3. Bread the Chicken : Dip chicken in flour, then egg, then flour again. Double dipping is awesome for extra crunch!
4. Preheat: Blast your air fryer to 380° F ( 190° C) for five minutes .
5. Air Fry : Place chicken in a single layer. Don't overcrowd! Spray with cooking spray.
6. Cook : Air fry for 10- 12 minutes , flip, spray again, and cook for another 10- 13 minutes . Make sure the internal temperature hits 165° F ( 74° C) !
7. Rest : Let it rest for a few minutes before scoffing. Patience, young Padawan!

Ace Tips & Tricks

• Double dipping creates the Best air fryer fried chicken , I swear by it!
• Don't skip the preheating. That's crucial for even cooking.
• Use a meat thermometer. Honestly, it's the only way to know your chicken is cooked properly. We want safe and tasty, yeah?
• Thinking about a Healthy air fryer chicken recipe ? Skip the double breading!
• You can absolutely prep the breaded chicken ahead of time. Store in the fridge for a few hours before frying.

Honestly, making air fryer fried chicken is so satisfying. Plus, it's loads healthier than the traditional method. And, if you want a Fried Chicken Recipe In Air Fryer that is dead simple, this is a brilliant option.

Get your Air Fryer Recipes Chicken Breast on and enjoy! You can even make Air fryer fried chicken without breading if you want something lighter.

Enjoy this Homemade air fryer fried chicken tonight! What is stopping you?

Right, let's chat about making the most of your air fryer fried chicken ! I want this Easy Air Fryer Fried Chicken to be a total success for you.

I'm sharing some of my hard won wisdom, so you don't make the same blunders I did!

Recipe Notes

Serving Up Some Brilliance

Honestly, presentation matters, right? For plating, think about height. A wee pile of crispy fried chicken in air fryer looks way better than a flat, sad-looking spread.

I sometimes add a sprig of parsley. Makes it look a bit posh, you know?

Sides? Coleslaw is the classic, of course. Sweet potato fries offer a healthier twist. Corn on the cob? Simple, but it just works .

If you are after the ultimate comfort food, mac and cheese makes you feel like hugging your nan after eating.

Don't forget the BBQ sauce for dipping. It's the bee's knees!

Storage Secrets

If you have any leftovers (unlikely, but hey), refrigerate them ASAP. Put them in an airtight container, and they'll be good for about 3-4 days.

The best air fryer fried chicken is always fresh, but needs must.

Freezing? Yeah, you can. Wrap each piece individually in cling film, then pop them into a freezer bag. They'll keep for about 2-3 months.

When reheating, the air fryer is your friend. It'll help bring back some of that crispiness. About 350° F ( 175° C) for 8- 10 minutes should do the trick.

Variations on a Theme

Fancy a change? For a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. You can even enjoy a healthy air fryer chicken recipe ! Want something dairy-free? Use almond milk or soy milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice instead of buttermilk.

Works a treat.

Seasonal swaps? In the summer, fresh corn on the cob is a must. In the autumn, roasted root vegetables like parsnips and carrots are lush.

Nutrition Nitty Gritty

Each serving of this Fried Chicken Recipe In Air Fryer clocks in around 400-450 calories. You're looking at 40-45g of protein, 15-20g of fat, and 20-25g of carbs.

It's all about balance, innit? Because it's air fryer fried chicken without breading , you slash some of the calories.

I sometimes use air fryer chicken thighs recipe instead of breast.

Also, air-fried boneless chicken breast is packed with protein, which helps keep you feeling full. It's a win-win!

You know what? This homemade air fryer fried chicken is totally doable. Don't be scared to give it a go.

You got this! The air fryer recipes chicken breast is not hard. Get in the kitchen and make some magic!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I really get proper crispy fried chicken in an air fryer? Sounds too good to be true!

Absolutely! Air fryer fried chicken can be incredibly crispy. The key is to avoid overcrowding the basket, preheat your air fryer properly, and give the chicken a generous spray of cooking oil. Think of it as a "fakeaway" that actually delivers on flavour and texture!

How long does air fryer fried chicken last, and what's the best way to store it? I hate soggy leftovers!

Air fryer fried chicken is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, pop it back in the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) to re-crisp it. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain that lovely crunch.

I'm watching my waistline. Is air fryer fried chicken actually healthier than deep fried?

Yes, it is considerably healthier! Air frying uses significantly less oil than deep frying, which reduces the fat content and calorie count. You still get that satisfying crispy coating, but without the guilt. So you can have your chicken and eat it too!

What temperature is best for making air fryer fried chicken that's juicy but definitely not pink inside?

The sweet spot is usually around 380°F (190°C). However, always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). This guarantees it's cooked through properly and safe to eat, while still staying lovely and juicy.

My air fryer fried chicken always comes out a bit bland. Any tips for boosting the flavour?

Flavour is key! Make sure you season both the buttermilk marinade and the flour breading generously. Don't be afraid to experiment with different spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, or even a pinch of cayenne for a bit of a kick.

A little goes a long way to creating that "finger lickin' good" taste!

Can I use different cuts of chicken for this air fryer fried chicken recipe? Does it only work with thighs?

While boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for staying moist and juicy, you can definitely use chicken breasts as well. Just be mindful that chicken breasts tend to dry out more quickly, so you may need to reduce the cooking time slightly and make sure they're not overcooked.

You could even try drumsticks or wings!