Introduction
Imagine biting into a piece of fried chicken that’s golden, crispy, and bursting with flavor—but without the guilt of deep frying. That’s exactly what you get with air fryer fried chicken. Whether you’re a fried chicken lover looking for a healthier alternative or simply want a hassle-free way to cook it, the air fryer is a game-changer.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make the best air fryer fried chicken, from selecting the right ingredients to expert tips for ensuring a crunchy, juicy bite every time.
Why Choose Air Fryer Fried Chicken?
Healthier Alternative to Deep Frying
- Employments up to 75% less oil than conventional frying.
- Reduces calorie intake while maintaining crispy texture.
Convenience and Ease
- No messy oil splatters or deep-frying hassles.
- Quick cooking time and effortless cleanup.
Perfectly Crispy Every Time
- The air fryer’s rapid air circulation creates a crunchy crust without excess grease.
- Even cooking ensures juicy meat with a golden-brown coating.
Ingredients for the Best Air Fryer Fried Chicken
Essential Ingredients
| Ingredient | Purpose in Recipe |
|---|---|
| Chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, breasts) | Juicy protein, bone-in preferred |
| Buttermilk | Tenderizes chicken, adds flavor |
| All-purpose flour | Forms the crispy outer coating |
| Cornstarch | Enhances crunchiness |
| Paprika | Adds color and mild smokiness |
| Garlic powder | Enhances savory depth |
| Onion powder | Adds an extra layer of flavor |
| Salt and pepper | Essential for seasoning |
| Baking powder | Helps crisp up the coating |
| Hot sauce (optional) | Adds a spicy kick |
| Cooking spray | Helps achieve even crispiness |
Step-by-Step Recipe for Air Fryer Fried Chicken
Step 1 – Prepare the Chicken
- Pat chicken dry with paper towels to expel abundance moisture.
- Soak in buttermilk + hot sauce (optional) for at least 1 hour (or overnight for extra tenderness).
Step 2 – Coat the Chicken
- In a bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, and seasonings.
- Remove chicken from buttermilk and coat thoroughly in the flour mixture.
- Press the flour blend onto the chicken to guarantee it sticks well.
- Let coated chicken rest for 5-10 minutes to set the crust.
Step 3 – Air Fry the Chicken
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Spray air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray.
- Arrange chicken in a single layer, ensuring no overlap.
- Air fry for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Check internal temperature (165°F/75°C) before serving.
Step 4 – Serve and Enjoy!
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before eating.
- Pair with your favorite dipping sauces and side dishes.
Tips for Crispy and Juicy Air Fryer Fried Chicken
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer—cook in batches.
- Use a little oil spray to enhance crispiness.
- Preheat your air fryer for even cooking.
- Flip chicken halfway through for balanced crisping.
- Let chicken rest after cooking to retain juiciness.
Air Fryer Fried Chicken Variations
Spicy Nashville-Style Air Fryer Fried Chicken
- Add cayenne pepper to the flour mix.
- Brush chicken with spicy oil after cooking.
Gluten-Free Air Fryer Fried Chicken
- Swap all-purpose flour for almond flour or gluten-free blend.
Buttermilk Ranch Fried Chicken
- Add dry ranch seasoning to the flour mixture.
Parmesan-Crusted Air Fryer Chicken
- Mix grated Parmesan into the flour coating.
Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Fried Chicken
- Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and buttery goodness.
- Coleslaw – Refreshing crunch.
- Mac and Cheese – Ultimate comfort pairing.
- Biscuits – Fluffy and buttery perfection.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet and juicy balance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use boneless chicken for air fryer fried chicken?
Yes, but adjust cooking time—boneless cuts cook faster (15-18 minutes).
Do I need to use buttermilk?
Buttermilk tenderizes the chicken, but you can use milk + lemon juice as a substitute.
How do I reheat air fryer fried chicken?
Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes for crispiness.
Can I freeze cooked air fryer fried chicken?
Yes! Store in an airtight container and reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.
What’s the best way to make extra crispy air fryer fried chicken?
- Add cornstarch + baking powder to the flour mix.
- Double dip in buttermilk and flour.
Conclusion
Air fryer fried chicken delivers all the crispy, juicy goodness of deep-fried chicken with less oil and hassle. Whether you’re sticking to the classic version or experimenting with flavors, this method guarantees golden, crunchy perfection every time.
Now it’s your turn! Try this formula and let us know how it turns out. Share your favorite variations in the comments! 
