Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Air Fry Fried Chicken gives you all the crispy, juicy satisfaction of traditional fried chicken—but with significantly less oil. Perfectly seasoned and golden brown, this healthier take on a comfort food classic is great for weeknight dinners, picnics, or game day. Plus, it’s quick, easy, and keeps your kitchen cleaner than deep frying.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, or breasts)buttermilksaltblack peppergarlic powderonion powderpaprikacayenne pepperflourcornstarchcooking spray or oil spray

directions

Marinate the chicken in buttermilk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best flavor.

In a separate bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, and additional seasoning if desired.

Remove the chicken from the marinade and allow excess to drip off.

Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to coat well.

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.

Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer, leaving space between each for air circulation.

Lightly spray the tops of the chicken with cooking spray.

Air fry for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through and spraying again if needed, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Let rest a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.Preparation time: 15 minutesMarinating time: 2 hours or overnightCooking time: 25-30 minutesTotal time: 2 hours 45 minutes (with marinating)

Variations

Use boneless chicken tenders for a quicker cook time and kid-friendly option.

Add crushed cornflakes or panko to the coating for extra crunch.

Make it spicy with extra cayenne or hot sauce in the marinade.

Swap buttermilk for yogurt or kefir for a tangy twist.

Try a gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-friendly.

storage/reheating

Store leftover air fried chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 4-6 minutes to restore crispiness.Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken?

Thaw completely before marinating for best results and even cooking.

Why use cornstarch in the coating?

Cornstarch helps create a lighter, crispier texture on the outside.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer?

Yes, preheating helps the chicken cook more evenly and get crispier.

Can I stack the chicken in the basket?

No, air frying works best with space between pieces for airflow.

How do I make it less spicy?

Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper in the marinade and flour mix.

Can I use skinless chicken?

Yes, but it may not be as crispy as skin-on chicken.

Is air fried chicken healthier?

Yes, it uses significantly less oil than traditional deep frying.

Can I marinate longer than overnight?

Yes, but don’t exceed 24 hours to avoid the chicken getting mushy.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

Use a mix of milk and vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute.

Can I freeze the cooked chicken?

Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in air fryer.

Conclusion

Air Fry Fried Chicken is the ultimate way to enjoy crispy, juicy chicken without all the grease and hassle of deep frying. With simple ingredients and a fraction of the oil, you get the same satisfying crunch and flavor in a healthier, easier-to-clean-up way. Great for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.