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The Best Air Fryer Fried Chicken

The Best Air Fryer Fried Chicken: Juicy & Guilt-Free Bliss

The Best Air Fryer Fried Chicken is a crispy, juicy delight made with flavorful seasonings and less oil for guilt-free indulgence.
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Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Keyword: air fryer, Crispy, Easy Recipe, fried chicken, Guilt-free, juicy
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Chilling Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4 pieces
Calories: 320kcal

Equipment

  • air fryer
  • mixing bowls
  • baking sheet
  • meat thermometer

Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 4 pieces Chicken Legs and Thighs Choose skin-on pieces for enhanced flavor and moisture.
  • 1 cup Buttermilk Can substitute with regular milk and a splash of vinegar.
  • 2 large Eggs Acts as a binder for the coating.

For the Seasoned Coating

  • 1 cup Flour Forms the base of the coating; can use gluten-free flour.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adds a hint of heat.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Infuses a savory punch.
  • 1 teaspoon Seasoned Salt Can be replaced with standard salt.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Adds color and smokiness.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Contributes mild onion flavor.

For Cooking

  • 2 tablespoons Oil for Spraying Preferably vegetable or canola oil.

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Wash and thoroughly dry the chicken pieces.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, salt, and black pepper.
  • In another bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, seasoned salt, paprika, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
  • Dip each chicken piece into the flour mixture, shaking off the excess.
  • Dip the coated chicken pieces into the buttermilk mixture, allowing excess to drip off.
  • Return to the flour mixture for a second dip and shake off any excess flour.
  • Spray the air fryer basket with oil and preheat to 370°F.
  • Cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway and spraying the other side with oil.
  • Repeat steps for additional chicken as needed.

Notes

For a zesty kick, sprinkle lemon juice over the chicken before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1piece | Calories: 320kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 150mg | Sodium: 700mg | Potassium: 400mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 200IU | Calcium: 150mg | Iron: 1mg