Craving fried chicken without all the oil? This air fryer version gives you that crispy, golden crust and juicy inside—with way less mess and fat. It’s simple, fast, and seriously satisfying!
Ingredients 🛒
- 4–6 chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or breasts)
- 1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)
- 1 cup flour (or almond flour for low-carb)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or light oil
Step-by-Step Instructions 👩🍳
1. Marinate the Chicken
- Soak chicken in buttermilk for 30 minutes (or overnight)
👉 This keeps it juicy and tender
2. Prepare the Coating
- Mix flour + all seasonings
- Remove chicken from marinade and coat well
3. Preheat Air Fryer
- Set to 375°F (190°C)
4. Cook
- Place chicken in basket (don’t overcrowd)
- Lightly spray with oil
- Cook 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway
👉 Internal temp should reach 165°F (74°C)
5. Extra Crisp (Optional)
- Increase heat to 400°F (200°C) for last 3–5 minutes
Serving Suggestions 🍽️
- With roasted veggies or salad
- Classic combo: mashed potatoes & coleslaw
- Add dipping sauces (ranch, hot sauce, honey mustard)
Nutrition (Approximate per serving) 📊
- Calories: 280–350
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 10–15g (lower with almond flour)
- Fat: 15–20g
✅ Pro Tips:
- Pat chicken dry before coating for better crisp
- Spray lightly—too much oil can make it soggy
- Let it rest 5 minutes after cooking (locks in juices!)