Air Fryer Fried Chicken
User Reviews
5
Air Fryer Fried Chicken
Description
This recipe starts with a marinade blending smoked paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cayenne, salt, buttermilk, and egg to tenderize and infuse flavor. Chicken pieces are submerged in the brine and refrigerated to absorb these seasonings. A dry breading of flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and spices is used to coat the chicken after removing excess brine.
The air fryer is preheated to a moderate temperature, and a cooking oil spray is applied liberally to both the basket and chicken surface, helping the crust crisp and brown during cooking. Chicken is cooked in a single layer to allow even air circulation, flipped halfway through cooking to brown both sides. Cooking times vary with the cut size; a thermometer is recommended to ensure the internal temperature reaches a safe level.
This air fryer method reduces oil usage while achieving the texture and appearance of fried chicken. It adapts easily to different chicken cuts and spice variations, making it flexible for home cooks. The recipe notes suggest alternatives for homemade buttermilk and tips for oil spraying, as well as advice on cooking times and doneness cues.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs chicken $5.22, about 10 pieces
For the brine:
- 2 tsp smoked paprika $0.20
- 1/2 tsp black pepper $0.08
- 2 tsp garlic powder $0.20
- 2 tsp onion powder $0.20
- 2 tsp oregano $0.20
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper $0.10
- 1 Tbsp salt $0.09
- 1 cup buttermilk $0.32
- 1 egg $0.67, beaten
For breading the chicken:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour $0.36
- 1/4 cup cornstarch $0.24
- 2 tsp baking powder $0.08
- 1 tsp salt $0.03
- 1/2 tsp onion powder $0.05
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder $0.05
- 2 oz cooking spray $0.62
Instructions
- Mix the smoked paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, buttermilk, and egg in a large bowl.
- Place chicken in the bowl and mix until all of the chicken is covered. Place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the chicken. Marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2 hours.
- Preheat your air-fryer to 300°F. Mix flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, onion powder, and garlic powder in a large bowl. Remove one piece of chicken from the brine, shake off the excess brine, and dredge it in the flour mixture. Set it aside and repeat with the remaining pieces of chicken.
- Spray cooking oil in your air fryer basket until it is completely covered. Place the chicken in the basket in a single layer, making sure no pieces overlap. Spray the top of the chicken with cooking oil until thoroughly covered. Cook for 20 minutes at 300°F.
- Carefully flip the chicken pieces so as not to destroy the crust. Spray the top surface of the chicken again with cooking oil until thoroughly covered.
- Cook for 15 to 20 minutes at 400°F, or until chicken skin is crispy and golden and the internal temperature is 160°F. Insert the thermometer in the thickest part of the chicken without touching the bone. Then try not to eat that crispy skin before serving. Forgive yourself if you fail miserably!
Notes
- Use about 3 pounds of cut chicken pieces; adjust cooking in batches for smaller air fryer baskets.
- Make homemade buttermilk by mixing 1 cup whole milk with 1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar if needed.
- Use cooking oil spray on both the air fryer basket and chicken surface for the best crust; a spray bottle with vegetable or corn oil works if you lack commercial spray.
- Adjust brine spices as desired or substitute with a favorite 3-tablespoon spice blend.
- Cook until an internal temperature of 165°F is reached; pull at 160°F to allow carryover cooking.
- Juices running clear is another doneness indicator if you do not use a thermometer.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 10pieces
Amount Per Serving
Calories 470 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1pieces | |
| Calories | 470kcal | 24% |
| Carbohydrates | 26g | 9% |
| Protein | 30g | 60% |
| Fat | 27g | 42% |
| Sodium | 1147mg | 48% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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