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Air Fryer Fried Chicken Recipe

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3.9 from 44 reviews

Crispy and juicy Air Fryer Fried Chicken made with marinated chicken legs and thighs, coated in a flavorful seasoned flour mixture, air fried to golden perfection. This recipe provides a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken without compromising taste and texture.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Chicken Marinade

  • 2 pounds chicken legs and thighs (skin on)
  • 2 cups buttermilk
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

Flour Coating

  • 2 cups flour
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon seasoned salt
  • 1 ½ teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Others

  • Oil (for spraying)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Wash and dry the chicken pieces thoroughly to remove any excess moisture, which ensures better coating adherence.
  2. Make buttermilk mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  3. Prepare flour coating: In a separate large bowl, mix the flour with garlic powder, seasoned salt, paprika, onion powder, black pepper, and salt evenly.
  4. Prepare air fryer basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil to prevent the chicken from sticking during cooking.
  5. First flour dredge: Dip each chicken piece into the seasoned flour mixture, tapping off any excess flour for a light coating.
  6. Buttermilk dip: Next, dip the floured chicken pieces into the buttermilk mixture, allowing excess liquid to drip back into the bowl.
  7. Second flour dredge: Return the chicken pieces to the flour mixture for a final light coating that will create a crispy crust.
  8. Arrange in air fryer: Place the coated chicken pieces in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, being careful not to stack them to ensure proper air circulation.
  9. Oil spray: Spray the tops of the chicken pieces lightly with oil to aid browning and crispiness.
  10. First cook: Air fry the chicken at 370°F (188°C) for 15-20 minutes.
  11. Mid-cook check: Check for visible flour on the chicken; if present, spray lightly with oil to promote even cooking.
  12. Flip and oil: Flip the chicken pieces carefully using tongs and spray the other side with oil.
  13. Finish cooking: Continue air frying for another 5-10 minutes until the chicken turns golden brown and crispy.
  14. Temperature check: Use an instant-read thermometer to verify the internal temperature reaches 185°F (85°C) for legs and thighs to ensure safe consumption.
  15. Repeat batch: If cooking in batches, repeat steps 5-14 for the remaining chicken pieces.

Notes

  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow proper air flow and even cooking.
  • Spraying oil before and during cooking helps the coating become crispy and golden brown.
  • The double dredging process with flour and buttermilk ensures a thick, crunchy crust.
  • Internal temperature is critical for food safety: 185°F for legs and thighs, 165°F for breasts.
  • Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking for juices to redistribute.
  • Adjust cooking time based on the size of the chicken pieces and air fryer model.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American