Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- Prepare Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, garlic powder, and paprika. Whisk until well mixed.
- Marinate Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are completely submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In another large bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Dredge Chicken: Remove each piece of chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Dredge thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing the coating onto the chicken to ensure it’s well covered.
Step 3: Air Fry the Chicken
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). This step ensures that the chicken starts cooking immediately and helps to crisp up the skin.
- Prepare for Cooking: Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated chicken pieces in the basket, making sure they are not touching to allow air to circulate freely.
- Cook: Air fry the chicken for 10 minutes, then flip the pieces over, spray lightly with cooking spray, and continue cooking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 4: Serve
- Resting: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute and maintains the crispiness.
- Serve: Serve your air fryer fried chicken hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a simple green salad.
Conclusion
Air fryer fried chicken offers a healthier alternative to classic fried chicken without sacrificing flavor or texture. By marinating the chicken and using the right blend of seasonings, you can achieve delicious results that are sure to satisfy your fried chicken cravings. Enjoy the benefits of air frying and the delightful crunch of perfectly cooked fried chicken at your next meal!