Go Back
Air Fryer Copycat KFC Fried Chicken
Print Recipe

Air Fryer Copycat KFC Fried Chicken

Making Air Fryer Copycat KFC Fried Chicken at home is a healthier and quicker way to enjoy the crispy, savory fried chicken you love. With minimal oil and the air fryer’s magic, you can recreate the KFC experience right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re serving it with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or your favorite dipping sauce, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Air Fryer Copycat KFC Fried Chicken
Servings: 4
Calories: 273kcal

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

  • 2 pounds bone-in skin-on chicken (mix of chicken thighs, drumsticks, and breasts)
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Breading:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Olive oil spray for coating the air fryer basket and chicken

Instructions

  • Marinate the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine buttermilk, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Add the chicken and let it marinate for at least 10 minutes (or up to 24 hours for best results).
  • Prepare the Breading: In a separate shallow dish, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
  • Coat the Chicken: Remove each piece of chicken from the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Quickly dredge the chicken in the breading mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated on all sides.
  • Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (180°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
  • Air Fry the Chicken: Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the basket, making sure there’s enough space for air circulation. Spray the chicken with a light coat of olive oil. Air fry at 350°F for 15 minutes, flip the chicken, and spray with more oil. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
  • Serve: Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Enjoy your crispy, juicy Air Fryer Copycat KFC Fried Chicken!

Notes

  • Marinate in advance: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours.
  • Pat dry: Before coating, ensure the chicken is patted dry to prevent excess moisture, which can make the breading soggy.
  • Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary, ensuring enough space for even cooking.
  • Spicy option: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the breading mixture for a spicy kick.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the air fryer to restore the crispiness.

Nutritional Facts (per serving)

  • Calories: 273 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 21g
  • Protein: 17g
  • Fat: 13g
    • Saturated Fat: 3g
    • Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
    • Monounsaturated Fat: 5g
    • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 78mg
  • Potassium: 212mg
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Vitamin A: 282 IU
  • Vitamin C: 1mg
  • Calcium: 48mg
  • Iron: 2mg
  • Net Carbs: 20g