Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Looking for a deliciously crispy chicken dish that’s both easy to make and healthier than traditional frying? Enter the Air Fryer Fried Chicken. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, bringing the satisfying crunch of fried chicken without all the oil. With just a handful of ingredients and an air fryer, you’ll be serving up juicy and flavorful chicken drumsticks in no time. Let’s dive into how you can create this mouthwatering dish right in your kitchen!

Why It Deserves a Spot

Air fryer cooking is a game-changer for home cooks. The Air Fryer Fried Chicken is not only a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken, as it requires significantly less oil, but it also cooks faster and still delivers that crispy exterior we all crave. Plus, the air fryer is incredibly easy to use, making cleanup a breeze. With its ability to lock in moisture while achieving a perfect crunch, this dish is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

What You’ll Need

To whip up this delectable Air Fryer Fried Chicken, here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 pounds chicken drumsticks (about 8)
• 1 tablespoon canola oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or substitute with regular paprika)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon baking powder

These ingredients come together to create a flavor-packed seasoning that will elevate your chicken to new heights.

Equipment & Tools

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following equipment:

• Air Fryer: The star of the show, responsible for that crispy finish.
• Bowl: For mixing your seasoning and coating the chicken.
• Meat thermometer: Optional, but great for ensuring your chicken is cooked perfectly.
• Tongs: For easy handling of the chicken without getting your hands messy.

Air Fryer Fried Chicken: Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to make some scrumptious Air Fryer Fried Chicken? Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by rinsing the chicken drumsticks under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning adhere better.

Step 2: Make the Seasoning Mix

In a large bowl, combine the canola oil, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and baking powder. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl and toss them in the seasoning mixture until they are well coated. Make sure every piece is evenly covered for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures that your chicken will start cooking immediately and helps achieve crispiness.

Step 5: Arrange the Chicken in the Air Fryer

Place the seasoned drumsticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch each other for even cooking.

Step 6: Cook the Chicken

Air fry the chicken for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.

Step 7: Let it Rest

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your crispy Air Fryer Fried Chicken with your favorite dipping sauces, sides, or even atop a salad for a delicious meal!

Dietary Swaps & Alternatives

If you’re looking for substitutions or dietary alternatives, consider the following:

• Oil Substitute: Olive oil or avocado oil can be used in place of canola oil.
• Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, make sure the spices and baking powder are gluten-free.
• Spice Variations: Feel free to customize the spices; try adding cayenne pepper for heat or Italian herbs for a different flavor profile.

Behind-the-Scenes Notes

When preparing Air Fryer Fried Chicken, the key to a crispy exterior is the baking powder. It helps create bubbles and a light texture as the chicken cooks. If you want to play around with the flavors, marinating the chicken overnight in buttermilk can add moisture and tenderness, though it’s not necessary for this recipe.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

Leftover Air Fryer Fried Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it back into the air fryer for about 5-10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to restore that crispy crust. For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing.

Common Qs About Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work just as well. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if they are larger or smaller than drumsticks.

What if my chicken isn’t crispy enough?

If your chicken isn’t crisping up as desired, try increasing the cooking time by a few more minutes or spritzing the chicken lightly with oil before cooking for an extra crunch.

Can I use other seasonings?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices. You could even try a dry rub or a marinade for a different flavor profile.

Is it necessary to preheat the air fryer?

While it’s not absolutely necessary, preheating the air fryer helps to ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and achieves that delicious crispy texture.

You Might Also Like

• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
• Cheesy Garlic Chicken Pasta Bake
• Air Fryer Tilapia

In Closing

There you have it! A straightforward and delightful recipe for Air Fryer Fried Chicken that’s sure to impress your family and friends. With its crispy skin and juicy meat, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds. So, fire up your air fryer and get ready to enjoy this guilt-free treat! Happy cooking!