Go Back
Air Fryer Fried Chicken
Print Recipe

Air Fryer Fried Chicken Recipe

This Air Fryer Fried Chicken is crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and cooked with a fraction of the oil. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy air fryer recipe delivers all the flavor of classic fried chicken without the mess or extra calories.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Resting Time5 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Air Fryer Fried Chicken Recipe
Servings: 8
Calories: 558kcal

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Tongs
  • Oil sprayer
  • Meat thermometer
  • Wire rack

Ingredients

  • For the Chicken:
  • 3 pounds bone-in chicken thighs and drumsticks
  • 1½ cups buttermilk
  • 2 large eggs
  • For the Coating:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3 teaspoons paprika
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • For Cooking:
  • Olive oil spray

Instructions

  • Marinate the Chicken:
  • Place the chicken in a bowl, pour in the buttermilk, and mix in the eggs. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor.
  • Prepare the Coating:
  • In another bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
  • Coat the Chicken:
  • Dip each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, shake off excess, dip back into the buttermilk, then coat again with flour for a double coating.
  • Spray with Oil:
  • Lay coated chicken on a tray and spray all sides generously with olive oil spray for an even golden crust.
  • Preheat and Air Fry:
  • Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (182°C). Arrange chicken in a single layer, leaving space between pieces. Air fry for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Rest and Serve:
  • Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Notes

Buttermilk Substitute: Mix 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice with 1 cup milk and let sit for 10 minutes.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour or crushed cornflakes.
Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the marinade for a kick.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container up to 4 days or freeze up to 3 months. Reheat in the air fryer at 370°F for 5–7 minutes.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Nutrient Amount
Calories 558 kcal
Protein 49g
Carbohydrates 28g
Fat 28g
Saturated Fat 8g
Cholesterol 281mg
Sodium 943mg
Fiber 1g
Sugar 2g