Craving that crunchy, juicy fried chicken from KFC without the guilt? This air fryer version brings the same delightful taste right to your kitchen, minus the excess oil. It’s a game changer for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends and family. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a crispy outer layer while keeping the chicken succulent and tender inside.
This recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy fried chicken with a healthier twist. The air fryer utilizes hot air circulation to achieve that golden-brown color and satisfying crunch that we all love. Plus, it’s so easy that even beginner cooks can whip up a batch effortlessly!
Imagine biting into a piece of chicken that’s perfectly seasoned and has that signature KFC flavor. Whether you’re serving it at a backyard barbecue or enjoying it on a cozy movie night, this recipe guarantees to impress.
The Appeal of Air Fryer Fried Chicken
When it comes to comfort food, fried chicken always holds a special place. The irresistible combination of crispy skin and juicy meat is a beloved favorite in many households.
With the air fryer, you can achieve that same crunchy exterior without deep frying. This method not only cuts down on oil but also makes the chicken healthier while retaining its signature flavor. The golden brown finish and satisfying crunch make it a delightful treat.
Key Ingredients for Success
The magic of crispy air fryer fried chicken lies in a few simple ingredients. Buttermilk serves as a perfect marinade, infusing the chicken with moisture and flavor.
A carefully crafted blend of spices, including paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper, elevates the taste profile, offering a nod to the classic KFC flavor. The use of all-purpose flour for coating provides that sought-after crunch when cooked in the air fryer.
Preparation and Marination
Preparing the chicken is a straightforward process that involves marinating. Soaking the pieces in buttermilk for at least an hour helps tenderize the meat while adding rich flavor.
After marination, the chicken is dredged in a spiced flour mixture. This step is crucial for achieving a crunchy exterior, so ensure that each piece is evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour to avoid clumps during cooking.
Cooking to Perfection
The air fryer is preheated to 375°F, creating an ideal environment for that perfect cook. Arranging the chicken in a single layer ensures even cooking and crisping.
Cooking takes about 25-30 minutes, with a simple flip halfway through to achieve uniform browning. The result? Crunchy, golden chicken that’s juicy inside, ready to be served.
The Perfect Sides
No fried chicken meal is complete without the right sides. Creamy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the chicken. A few pickles offer a tangy contrast, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
These sides complement the fried chicken beautifully, making for a satisfying meal that reminds you of home-cooked goodness.
Serving Suggestions
After resting for a few minutes, the chicken is ready to be plated. Serve it on a rustic wooden table for that cozy vibe that brings comfort food to life.
This dish works beautifully for gatherings, family dinners, or even a cozy night in. Its ease of preparation and delightful taste ensure it will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
The Ultimate Air Fryer Fried Chicken
This air fryer KFC-style fried chicken is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The blend of spices gives it a rich flavor that rivals the famous original recipe, making it a must-try for fried chicken lovers.
Ingredients
- 4 pieces of chicken (legs, thighs, or breasts)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Cooking spray or oil for misting
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a bowl and cover them with buttermilk. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
- Prepare Coating: In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Coat Chicken: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off. Dredge the pieces in the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Cook Chicken: Place the coated chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Mist lightly with cooking spray or oil. Cook for 25-30 minutes, turning the chicken halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious and crispy air fryer fried chicken!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Marinating Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Servings: 4 pieces
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 25g