Air Fryer Whole Chicken

The aroma of a perfectly roasted chicken fills the kitchen, bringing a comforting warmth that beckons everyone to gather around the table. This Air Fryer Whole Chicken recipe takes just about an hour and delivers a juicy, flavorful bird with crispy skin—thanks to the air fryer’s efficient cooking method.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or Sunday family dinners. It’s ideal for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. If you have leftover chicken, it stores well for a few days in the refrigerator, making it a great make-ahead option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The air fryer creates a crispy, golden skin without all the oil.
• Juicy meat remains tender and flavorful, cooked to perfection.
• It takes less time than traditional roasting, perfect for quick meals.
• Minimal cleanup required with the air fryer basket.

What You’ll Need

To create this delicious air-fried whole chicken, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken

• 1 (3-5 pound) whole chicken, giblets removed
• 1-2 tablespoons avocado oil or extra virgin olive oil

For the Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Note: Avocado oil withstands high heat well.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use canola oil instead of avocado oil.
• Substitute smoked paprika for regular paprika for a bolder flavor.
• Dried herbs can replace fresh if necessary.
• Garlic salt can replace garlic powder and kosher salt.

How to Make It

Get ready to enjoy a succulent air-fried chicken with these simple steps.

Preheat the air fryer

Preheat the air fryer to 360 degrees F to prepare for optimal cooking.

Prepare the chicken

Remove the chicken from the packaging and check for giblets in the cavity, discarding them. Dry the chicken thoroughly with a clean kitchen towel.

Season the chicken

Rub or brush the oil all over the chicken on both sides. In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning blend all over the chicken until well coated.

Add to the air fryer

Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Carefully place the seasoned chicken, breast-side down, into the basket. Cook the chicken for 50 minutes.

Flip and continue cooking

After 50 minutes, flip the chicken onto its back and cook for an additional 10 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 160 degrees F, noting that it will reach 165 degrees F as it rests.

Rest the chicken

Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the air fryer and place it onto a cutting board. Allow the chicken to rest for at least 10 minutes before carving and serving.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Yes, for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Microwave for 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Tips for Best Results

• Make sure to dry the chicken thoroughly for the best crispiness.
• Utilize a thermometer for precise cooking, ensuring juiciness.
• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken a few hours before cooking.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Serve with a fresh green salad for a light option.
• Add mashed potatoes for a comforting, hearty dinner.