KFC Chicken in the Air Fryer

why make this recipe

Making KFC Chicken in the Air Fryer is a great way to enjoy crispy, flavorful chicken without deep frying. The air fryer reduces the amount of oil needed, making it a healthier option while still delivering that classic crunchy texture and delicious taste we all love. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and perfect for any meal!

how to make KFC Chicken in the Air Fryer

Ingredients :

• 4 pieces of chicken (legs or breasts)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Cooking spray

Directions :

1. Marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight. This helps tenderize the chicken and adds flavor.
2. In a bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (182°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture until fully coated.
5. Place the chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Spray lightly with cooking spray for extra crispiness.
6. Cook for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through. Check to ensure the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
7. Serve and enjoy your KFC-style chicken!

how to serve KFC Chicken in the Air Fryer

Serve your KFC Chicken with your favorite sides! Delicious options include mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and cornbread. You can also enjoy it with dipping sauces like ranch or barbecue for an extra burst of flavor.

how to store KFC Chicken in the Air Fryer

After enjoying your KFC Chicken, let any leftovers cool completely. Store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the air fryer or oven to restore its crispy texture.

tips to make KFC Chicken in the Air Fryer

• For even better flavor, add spices to the buttermilk marinade, such as hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce.
• Make sure the chicken pieces are not overcrowded in the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• If you like extra crunch, double-dip the chicken by dipping it back in buttermilk after coating it with flour, then coating it again in the flour mixture.

variation

You can easily customize this recipe by adding different spices to the flour mixture. Try cayenne pepper for some heat or Italian herbs for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking.

2. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a delicious gluten-free option.

KFC Chicken in the Air Fryer

Enjoy crispy, flavorful KFC-style chicken made healthier in the air fryer, perfect for any meal.

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Prep Time 1 hour hr

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 pieces

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Fast Food

Calories: 240

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Chicken

• 4 pieces chicken (legs or breasts)
• 1 cup buttermilk Marinate the chicken in this for added flavor.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour Used for coating the chicken.
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• as needed Cooking spray For extra crispiness.

Method

 

Marination

1. Marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.

Preparing the Coating

1. In a bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

Cooking

1. Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (182°C).
2. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge in the flour mixture until fully coated.
3. Place the chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer and spray lightly with cooking spray.
4. Cook for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, checking for golden brown and cooked-through chicken.

Serving

1. Serve your KFC-style chicken with favorite sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and cornbread, along with dipping sauces.

Notes

For better flavor, consider adding spices to the buttermilk marinade. Ensure the chicken pieces are not overcrowded for even cooking. For extra crunch, double-dip the chicken.