I can hardly contain my excitement while sharing this recipe – Air Fry Fried Chicken is a true game-changer! Growing up in a household where fried chicken was a weekend staple, the aroma wafting through the kitchen always tugged at my heartstrings. However, the aftermath – the greasy pans and lingering smells – often made me rethink the whole process. Enter my air fryer! It revolutionized my cooking game and brought back the joy of crispy, juicy fried chicken without all the guilt and mess.
What I love the most about air fryer fried chicken is that you can indulge without compromising on health. It’s a bit like a culinary wizardry. I fondly remember the first time I made this for friends; they couldn’t believe it wasn’t deep-fried! So, grab your aprons, and let’s get cooking!
What’s in Air Fry Fried Chicken?
Chicken Pieces: You can use your favorite parts here – wings, thighs, drumsticks, or even breasts. I lean towards thighs and drumsticks because they stay juicier and have more flavor.
Buttermilk: This is vital for marinating. It tenderizes the chicken and adds a lovely tang. If you don’t have buttermilk, a mixture of milk and vinegar can work in a pinch.
Flour: All-purpose flour is perfect for coating the chicken to achieve that golden crispiness.
Seasonings: I like a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Feel free to throw in a pinch of cayenne if you like it spicy!
Cooking Spray: To get that beautiful golden brown without the extra oil, a bit of cooking spray goes a long way.
Is Air Fry Fried Chicken Good for You?
Oh, absolutely! The beauty of air fryers is that they require little to no oil, making them a healthier alternative to traditional frying.
Chicken: A great source of protein, chicken is versatile and can help keep you satisfied without packing on the calories, especially using skinless pieces.
Buttermilk: It’s rich in calcium and beneficial probiotics, promoting good digestion and bone health.
However, if you go for skin-on chicken, remember that it does add some extra fat. For a lighter option, boneless, skinless cuts are a fantastic choice!
Ingredients List
– 2 lbs of chicken pieces (thighs or drumsticks)
– 1 cup buttermilk (or a mix of milk and vinegar)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cooking spray (for crisping)
This recipe serves about 4 people – perfect for a family dinner or cozy get-together!
How to Make Air Fry Fried Chicken?
1. **Marinate the Chicken:** In a large bowl, soak the chicken pieces in buttermilk. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
2. **Prepare the Coating:** In another bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. **Coat the Chicken:** Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, making sure it’s well-coated. Shake off any excess flour.
4. **Preheat the Air Fryer:** Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes.
5. **Spray and Air Fry:** Place the coated chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Spray lightly with cooking spray. Cook for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
6. **Serve:** Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it with your favorite sides!
Get Creative with Your Fried Chicken!
– **Spice It Up:** Add some cayenne or your favorite hot sauce to the buttermilk for a kick.
– **Herbs:** Try mixing in some dried herbs like thyme or oregano with the flour for extra flavor.
– **Sides:** This chicken goes perfect with coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or even a zesty salad.
I can’t wait for you to try this recipe! There’s something magical about sharing delicious food and creating memories around the dinner table. Please let me know how it turns out, and feel free to share any of your own twists or variations. Happy cooking!
