1. Marinate the Chicken
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg.
- Add the chicken pieces to the buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight. This step helps to tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.
2. Prepare the Breading
- In another mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating helps to ensure even cooking and a crispy crust.
4. Bread the Chicken
- Remove the chicken pieces from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating adheres well.
- Shake off any excess flour mixture and place the breaded chicken on a wire rack. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the coating to set.
5. Air Fry the Chicken
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Lightly spray the tops of the chicken pieces with cooking spray to help them crisp up.
6. Cook the Chicken
- Air fry the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through the cooking time. The chicken should be golden brown and crispy, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Serve and Enjoy
- Once the chicken is cooked through and crispy, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides and dipping sauces.
Tips for Perfect Fried Chicken
- Marinate Overnight: Marinate the chicken in buttermilk overnight for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer for the best results.
- Single Layer: Cook the chicken in a single layer to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Variations to Try
- Spicy Fried Chicken: Add extra cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade for a spicy kick.
- Herb-Crusted Chicken: Mix dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano into the flour mixture for added flavor.
- Gluten-Free Fried Chicken: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the coating to make this recipe gluten-free.
Conclusion
Air fryer fried chicken is a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. With a crispy exterior and juicy, flavorful meat, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Key Takeaway
The secret to perfect air fryer fried chicken lies in the marination and breading process, along with the right cooking technique. By following this guide, you’ll achieve crispy, golden, and delicious fried chicken every time.
We hope you found this guide helpful and inspiring. Enjoy your air fryer fried chicken!