1. Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, mix the buttermilk with the hot sauce if using. Submerge the chicken pieces in the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight. The buttermilk tenderizes the chicken and adds flavor.
2. Prepare the Coating
In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
3. Coat the Chicken
Remove each chicken piece from the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge the chicken in the seasoned flour, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks. For an extra crispy coating, you can double-dip the chicken: dip it back in the buttermilk and then again in the flour mixture.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures the chicken starts cooking immediately and helps achieve a crispy exterior.
5. Cook the Chicken
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the chicken pieces in the basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
Spray the tops of the chicken pieces with a light coating of cooking spray or olive oil spray. This helps the coating become golden and crispy.
Cook the chicken at 380°F (193°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and have a crispy, golden-brown coating. If you’re cooking in batches, keep the cooked chicken warm in a low oven (about 200°F or 93°C) while you finish the rest.
6. Rest and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures the chicken stays juicy. Serve hot, and enjoy the crispy, flavorful results!
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Fried Chicken
- Dry the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels before marinating. This helps the buttermilk and coating adhere better.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer and avoid overcrowding the basket. This ensures even cooking and crispy results.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking times can vary based on the size of the chicken pieces and your specific air fryer model. Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to adjust the seasoning in the flour mixture to suit your taste. Adding spices like smoked paprika or dried herbs can give your chicken a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Crispy air fryer fried chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some delicious ideas:
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw complements the rich flavor of the chicken and adds a refreshing crunch.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side that works perfectly with fried chicken.
- Cornbread: Sweet and savory cornbread is a great accompaniment to soak up any extra juices.
- Green Beans: Lightly seasoned green beans provide a healthy and crisp contrast to the richness of the chicken.
- Biscuits: Flaky, buttery biscuits are a perfect addition to a fried chicken meal.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Fried Chicken offers a healthier, less greasy way to enjoy this beloved dish without sacrificing flavor or crunch. With just a few simple steps, you can create golden, crispy chicken that rivals traditional fried versions. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also versatile, making it ideal for any occasion. Enjoy the delicious crunch and juicy goodness of air fryer fried chicken, and savor every bite!
Tried this recipe? Share your thoughts and variations in the comments below! I’d love to hear how your crispy fried chicken turned out and any tips you might have for fellow cooks. Enjoy your meal!