Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Clucking Good Without the Guilt
Table of Contents
Air Fryer Crispy Chicken: Clucking Good Without the Guilt!
Fancy a bit of fried chicken, but without the deep fried guilt? You know, that feeling? Our air fryer fried chicken recipe is here to save the day, delivering that satisfying crunch with less oil.
It's like Nando's met your kitchen, innit?
Crispy Comfort Food, Reimagined
This isn't your grandma's fried chicken, but it's just as comforting. It's a tasty, simpler take, perfect for when you need a bit of comfort.
The chicken, juicy inside, crispy outside. You'll wonder why you ever bothered with the deep fryer.
This air fryer chicken recipe gives you proper Southern comfort food. And without all the fuss. It's ready in under an hour.
It's perfect for a family dinner air fryer ideas night or a cheeky weekend treat. This serves 4.
Why This Air Fryer Fried Chicken Rocks
Chicken easy healthy recipes are important. This recipe delivers on the health front. It also gives great taste. You're using way less oil, meaning fewer calories.
We can probably call it Healthy Fried Chicken Recipe?. Okay, right then, let's get this sorted. That's why it's a win-win.
This easy supper ideas quick air fryer recipe is for anyone. Seriously, even if you're not a kitchen pro, you can nail this.
Plus, this recipe is special because it's all about flavour without the fuss. It's crispy, juicy, and dead easy .
Gather Your Bits and Bobs
Before we get our cooking aprons on, let's check we've got all the bits and bobs. Here's a list of 10 , balancing what we've got and what we need, just like adding a cheeky bit of salt to balance the sweetness, innit?: 1.
Easy Chicken Airfryer Recipes 2. Dinner Air Fryer Ideas 3. Chicken Easy Healthy Recipes 4. Quick Chicken Recipes Oven 5.
Easy Supper Ideas Quick Air Fryer 6. Air fryer chicken recipe 7. Crispy air fryer chicken 8. Healthy fried chicken recipe 9.
Air fryer chicken drumsticks 10. Air fryer chicken thighs . Now, grab your chicken and spices. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients & Equipment for Cracking Air Fryer Fried Chicken
Okay, right then, let's get this sorted. Before we dive into making this air fryer fried chicken , let's make sure we've got everything we need.
This recipe leans on simple ingredients, but quality matters. Remember that Easy Chicken Airfryer Recipes are awesome
Main Ingredients: Let's Talk Chicken
For the Brine:
- 4 cups (950ml) water. It's just water, tap's fine!
- 1/4 cup (50g) kosher salt. Seriously, use Diamond Crystal if you can. It distributes better.
- 2 tablespoons (24g) granulated sugar.
- 1 tablespoon (6g) smoked paprika. This really adds depth.
- 1 teaspoon (3g) garlic powder.
- 1/2 teaspoon (1.5g) black pepper. Freshly ground is always better.
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (about 600g total) . Think drumsticks or thighs. These are great for an air fryer chicken recipe . Skin-on is essential for that crispy air fryer chicken we're after. I once tried it with boneless, skinless, and honestly, it was a bit sad.
For the Breading:
- 1 1/2 cups (180g) all-purpose flour.
- 1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch. This is my secret weapon for extra crispness!
- 2 teaspoons (6g) baking powder. Helps the breading puff up a bit.
- 1 tablespoon (12g) smoked paprika. More smoky goodness!
- 2 teaspoons (6g) garlic powder.
- 1 teaspoon (3g) onion powder.
- 1 teaspoon (3g) dried thyme.
- 1/2 teaspoon (1.5g) cayenne pepper (optional). If you like a bit of heat, chuck it in!
- 1 teaspoon (6g) salt.
- 1/2 teaspoon (3g) ground black pepper.
- 2 large eggs . Free range if you can!
- 1/2 cup (120ml) milk (whole or 2%).
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil or avocado oil.
- Cooking spray (high heat).
Seasoning Notes: The Secret Sauce
Smoked paprika is the star here. Don't skimp on it. The garlic and onion powder add that classic fried chicken flavour.
Want to switch it up? Try a pinch of dried rosemary or oregano. It will definitely give the impression of Healthy fried chicken recipe .
This recipe would be awesome for Dinner Air Fryer Ideas and is much quicker than Quick Chicken Recipes Oven
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple
- Large bowl for brining.
- Three shallow dishes for breading.
- Air fryer . Obviously!
- Meat thermometer. Essential for making sure the chicken is cooked through. Aim for 165° F ( 74° C) .
That's it! No fancy gadgets needed. If you don't have three shallow dishes, plates will do just fine. So that is a great for Easy Supper Ideas Quick Air Fryer .
Ready to get cooking?
Air Fryer Crispy Chicken: Clucking Good Without the Guilt!
Okay, right then, let's get this sorted. Fancy some proper fried chicken, but not all the grease? I've got you covered, innit? This air fryer fried chicken recipe is a game changer.
Honestly, it's so easy, even I can't mess it up. Think of it as your new go-to Dinner Air Fryer Ideas recipe.
Prep Steps: Let's Get Organised
Essential mise en place is key. First, get your chicken brining. It adds flavour and keeps it juicy. Then, set up your breading station.
Trust me, a bit of prep saves you time and stress later. Also, remember to wash your hands before and after handling raw chicken, yeah? Safety first, always.
step-by-step: From Raw to Righteous
Right, let's dive in.
- Brine it! Mix your brine ingredients in a bowl. Submerge the chicken. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours , but 4-6 is better . Overnight? Even better still.
- Breading Station: In separate dishes, prep your flour mix (flour, cornstarch, baking powder, spices) and your egg wash (eggs and milk).
- Breading Bonanza: Dredge chicken in flour, then egg, then back to flour. Pack that breading on good.
- Preheat: Crank that air fryer to 380° F ( 190° C) . Give the basket a good spray.
- Air Fry Time: Brush chicken with a little oil. Pop it in the air fryer. Cook for 10 minutes , then flip. Cook another 10- 15 minutes , until internal temp hits 165° F ( 74° C) .
- Rest Up: Let it rest for 5 minutes before scoffing.
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Chicken Game
Patted dry Brining and drying out the chicken before breading is essential for crispy skin. Don't skip this step! And don't overcrowd the air fryer basket.
It's tempting to chuck it all in, but resist! Cook in batches for that perfect crisp. One thing to watch out for: soggy bottoms.
If your chicken's not crispy enough, crank up the heat for the last few minutes. And listen, if you're feeling lazy, you can even prep the breaded chicken ahead of time and keep it in the fridge until you're ready to cook.
Using this easy chicken airfryer recipes and make up your mind in all of your next Chicken Easy Healthy Recipes meals.
Now it's all done why not enjoy your new Air fryer chicken recipe, it will be crispy air fryer chicken and a new way to create a healthy fried chicken recipe.
You can even use Air fryer chicken drumsticks or Air fryer chicken thighs, you just need to adjust cooking times.
Well done with the Air fryer fried chicken mate!
Recipe Notes: Okay, Right Then, Let's Get This Sorted!
Let's chat about some extra bits for this air fryer fried chicken recipe. Honestly, these are just things I’ve picked up along the way.
You know? Like, mistakes I’ve made and things I’ve learned.
Serving Suggestions: Plating Up That Clucking Good Chicken
Okay, so you've nailed the crispy air fryer chicken . Now what? For presentation, think simple but effective. A sprinkle of fresh parsley can lift the dish.
To keep it real, sometimes I just chuck it on a plate with some chips. Complementary sides? You can't go wrong with coleslaw, innit? A cool, creamy counterpoint is perfect! And for a bevvy, a classic lemonade or iced tea hits the spot.
Fancy a grown-up treat? Try an ice-cold beer or a light white wine.
Storage Tips: Keepin' it Fresh
Right then, what if you've got leftovers? Honestly, sometimes I make extra on purpose. Refrigerate your cooked air fryer fried chicken in an airtight container.
It will last for 3-4 days . For best results, reheat in the air fryer to recrisp the skin . Fancy freezing? Wrap individual pieces tightly in cling film.
Then pop them into a freezer bag. They'll keep for up to 2 months . Reheating from frozen? Air fry until heated through.
Variations: A Little Bit of This, A Little Bit of That
Want to mix it up? For a healthy fried chicken recipe adaptation, use almond flour. It gives a lovely nutty flavour.
For a seasonal twist, try adding different herbs in the Summer: some Basil can make magic. If you like your chicken Air fryer chicken drumsticks you can follow the same exact instructions with those, without making changes.
Nutrition Basics: Simplified Goodness
Here's the skinny: this air fryer chicken recipe is healthier than deep fried, hands down. It cuts back on the oil.
That means fewer calories and less fat. The chicken provides protein. Also, it will keep you full and satisfied. Just remember, the breading does add carbs.
Portion control is your friend.
Honestly, don't be scared to experiment. Cooking should be fun. Now get in the kitchen and have a go! You'll be whipping up easy supper ideas quick air fryer recipes in no time! You got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why isn't my air fryer fried chicken crispy enough? What am I doing wrong?
Ah, the million dollar question! The most common culprits are not drying the chicken thoroughly after brining and overcrowding the air fryer basket. Patting the chicken dry before breading ensures the breading sticks and crisps up properly. Also, cook in batches to allow hot air to circulate freely around each piece.
A little brush of oil just before air frying also works wonders!
Can I use boneless, skinless chicken for this air fryer fried chicken recipe? Will it still work?
Absolutely! While bone-in, skin-on chicken is classic, boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders will work. Just be mindful that the cooking time will be significantly shorter, usually around 12-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Keep a close eye on it to avoid drying it out; you don't want to end up with chicken that tastes like sawdust!
How long does air fryer fried chicken last, and what's the best way to store it?
Cooked air fryer fried chicken is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For the best results, reheat it in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to re-crisp the skin.
Avoid microwaving, as it will make the chicken soggy nobody wants that!
Is air fryer fried chicken actually healthier than regular fried chicken?
You bet your bottom dollar it is! Air frying uses significantly less oil than deep frying, reducing the overall fat and calorie content. While it still delivers that satisfying crispy texture and delicious flavour, you're cutting back on a good chunk of the unhealthy stuff.
It's a win-win, like finding a tenner in your old coat pocket!
What kind of air fryer is best for making air fryer fried chicken? Does it matter?
Generally, any air fryer will do the trick as long as it can reach the required temperature. Basket style air fryers are most common and work well, but oven style air fryers can often accommodate larger batches, which is handy when you're cooking for a crowd.
Just make sure you check that chicken doesn't overcrowd, otherwise the crispiness isn't worth the batch cooking.
Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Clucking Good Without T
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 500 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 25g |