- Set Temperature: Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
3. Air Fry the Chicken:
- Place Chicken in the Air Fryer Basket: Place the chicken breast-side down in the air fryer basket. Be sure there is space around the chicken to allow the hot air to circulate. If your air fryer is small, you may need to tuck the wings and legs in to fit it properly.
- Cook Breast-Side Down: Air fry the chicken at 360°F (180°C) for 30 minutes with the breast side down. This helps keep the breast meat juicy while the chicken starts cooking.
- Flip the Chicken: After 30 minutes, carefully flip the chicken over using tongs so that the breast side is up. Continue cooking for another 20-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer in the thickest part of the thigh.
4. Rest and Serve:
- Rest the Chicken: Once the chicken reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat even more tender and juicy.
- Carve and Garnish: Carve the chicken and garnish with fresh herbs or lemon wedges for added flavor and presentation.
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Whole Chicken:
- Pat the Chicken Dry: For crispy skin, make sure the chicken is as dry as possible before seasoning and cooking. Excess moisture can cause the skin to steam instead of crisp.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Always check the internal temperature to ensure the chicken is fully cooked. The thickest part of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Let it Rest: Resting the chicken after cooking helps the juices stay inside, making the meat more flavorful and moist.
- Even Cooking: If your air fryer is small, rotating or flipping the chicken halfway through cooking ensures even cooking and crispy skin all around.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Vegetables: Serve the roast chicken with air-fried or roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or potatoes. You can even toss the veggies in the air fryer while the chicken is resting.
- Over Salad: Use the chicken as a protein source for a hearty salad with fresh greens, avocado, and a light vinaigrette.
- With Gravy: Pair the chicken with homemade gravy or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra savory touch.
Variations:
- Herb Butter Chicken: For extra richness, rub herb-infused butter (butter mixed with garlic, rosemary, and thyme) under the skin of the chicken before cooking.
- Spicy Chicken: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix for a spicier version.
- Lemon Garlic Chicken: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken before serving for a bright, zesty flavor. Add extra garlic in the cavity for more robust flavor.
Conclusion
Air fryer whole chicken is a perfect way to get a juicy, crispy roast chicken in less time than traditional oven roasting. The result is flavorful, tender meat with a golden, crispy skin that’s sure to impress. Whether for a simple family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this air fryer chicken recipe is a winner!