I am excited to share my all-time never disappointing crispy air fryer fried chicken recipe with you! This Crispy Fried Chicken Recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a healthier alternative to deep-fried chicken. With the air fryer, you’re getting all the delicious flavor with less fat and calories. Give it a try and let us know what you think!
Perfect Air Fryer Fried Chicken
If there is one thing we all crave most afternoons this summer holiday, it’s fried chicken. Making fried chicken in the air fryer has been a game changer. With this Crispy Air Fryer Fried Chicken recipe, you can indulge in your favorite comfort food without feeling guilty.
PRO Tips for the Best Air Fried Chicken
- For a perfect seasoned chicken – Marinate for at least 1 hour before frying. I usually keep mine overnight inside the fridge!
- Flip the sides halfway through – This guarantees an even and crispy chicken.
- Keep the egg and remaining seasoning until about 10 minutes to the end of cooking, then coat your chicken with the mixture! This allows an additional coating and gives the glossy and beautiful crispy chicken.
Easy Fried Chicken Ingredients
Now, as with all of my recipes, the aim is for you to be able to make the ingredients for this fried chicken completely yours! Switch up the ingredients to fit your taste.
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces
- 1 cup Buttermilk – Optional
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour – For a coating to give the crisp effect
- 1 tsp paprika – Seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt – For taste
- 1/2 tsp all seasoning
- Cooking spray
- 2 large eggs – Gives the polished extra coating
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Chicken
Step 1: In a bowl, place your chicken and season with salt, add 1 cup of buttermilk and cover. Place inside the fridge for at least 1 hour to marinate. I prefer to leave mine overnight.
Step 2: In a shallow dish, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt (if you are skipping step 1), and the remaining seasonings.
Step 3: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Step 4: In another dish, beat the eggs.
Step 5: Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, dip the chicken into the egg mixture, and back into the flour mixture for extra coating. Reserve the remaining flour mixture and egg for later.
Step 5: Spray the air fryer basket with a small cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the chicken pieces in the basket, ensuring they do not overlap.
Step 6: Cook for 10 minutes, then flip the chicken and cook for another 10 minutes.
Step 7: Mix the remaining spices with one egg, using a cooking brush, coat the chicken gently.
Step 8: Cook for another 10 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Enjoy your guilt-free, Crispy Air Fryer Fried Chicken!
Substitutes to the Chicken
You can substitute it with boneless chicken! This recipe is versatile and works well with boneless chicken too. Just remember to adjust your cooking time as boneless chicken often cooks faster.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
A: While the air fryer provides the best results for this recipe, you can still cook this in a regular oven. The texture might not be as crispy, and you’ll have to adjust the cooking time and temperature.
Can I stack chicken pieces in the air fryer?
It’s best to avoid stacking the chicken pieces, as this could result in uneven cooking. If you must stack, make sure to use the recommended racks or cook in multiple batches.
How do I know when my chicken is cooked?
Chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). We recommend using a meat thermometer to check.
More Chicken Recipes to Love
Whole Chicken in an air fryer made easy
This fried chicken will pair well with air fryer parsnip!
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