Golden Crispy Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Golden, crispy, and irresistibly delicious, the aroma of fried chicken wafting through the kitchen is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. This Golden Crispy Air Fryer Fried Chicken recipe takes just under an hour from start to finish and guarantees perfectly seasoned and crispy results thanks to the air fryer technique that requires significantly less oil than traditional frying methods.

This recipe is perfect for families looking for a quick meal or anyone who craves the nostalgic comfort of fried chicken. It’s great for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. You can marinate the chicken ahead of time for deeper flavor or store leftovers in the fridge for an easy reheatable lunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The air fryer creates a crispiness that rivals deep frying without the excess oil.
• Marinating in buttermilk makes the chicken tender and flavorful.
• Flipping halfway through ensures even cooking and browning.
• It’s a simple recipe with steps that anyone can follow.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious recipe:

For the Chicken

• 4 pieces chicken thighs
• 4 pieces chicken drumsticks

For the Marinade

• 1 cup buttermilk

For the Coating

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Cooking

• Cooking spray

Buttermilk can be substituted with regular milk mixed with a little vinegar.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Chicken thighs can be replaced with chicken breasts.
• Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
• Any seasoning can substitute for garlic powder and paprika.
• Plain yogurt is a possible buttermilk alternative.

How to Make It

Start your journey to crispy fried chicken with these simple steps.

Marinate

1. Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, place the chicken thighs and drumsticks, and pour in the buttermilk. Ensure that all pieces are fully submerged and marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare Coating

2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until evenly mixed.

Preheat Air Fryer

3. Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it warm up for a few minutes.

Dredge Chicken

4. Dredge the chicken: Remove each piece of chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Coat each piece evenly in the flour mixture, ensuring full coverage.

Load Air Fryer

5. Place in air fryer: Arrange the coated chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Lightly spray with cooking spray to enhance crispiness.

Cook

6. Cook the chicken: Air fry the chicken for 25-30 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through the cooking time until they are golden brown and crispy.

Serve

7. Serve hot: Once fully cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Yes, for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Use the air fryer for 5-10 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

Tips for Best Results

• For the best texture, don’t skip the marinade time.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
• To avoid sogginess, don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket.
• Experiment with different spices in the flour mix for varied flavors.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with coleslaw for a classic Southern meal.
• Serve alongside cornbread for a complete comfort food feast.
• Add a side of vegetables for a balanced plate.