Introduction
Cooking a whole chicken in an air fryer is a game-changer for busy home cooks. This method produces a chicken with crispy skin and tender, juicy meat in significantly less time than traditional roasting. The air fryer circulates hot air around the chicken, ensuring an even and efficient cook. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or when you want a simple, yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients
To prepare a delicious whole chicken in the air fryer, you’ll need:
- 1 whole chicken (about 4 to 5 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 lemon, halved (optional)
- A few sprigs of fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme (optional)
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Meat thermometer
- Kitchen twine (for trussing, optional)