Description
This Air Fryer Fried Chicken (KFC Style!) recipe delivers crispy, golden chicken with a juicy center—no deep frying required. Perfect for a healthier take on classic comfort food.
Ingredients
2 pounds skin-on chicken (mix of bone-in thighs and drumsticks)
1 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
For the breading:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
1. Preheat the air fryer to 180C/350F.
2. In a bowl, combine the chicken, buttermilk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let sit for 10 minutes.
3. In another bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
4. Remove chicken from marinade and shake off excess. Coat in breading mixture on all sides.
5. Spray the air fryer basket and arrange chicken in a single layer. Spray the tops generously with cooking spray.
6. Air fry for 15 minutes, flip, spray again, and cook for 5 more minutes.
7. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F. Repeat as needed for remaining chicken.
Notes
To store: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
To freeze: Freeze cooled chicken in a ziplock bag for up to 6 months.
To reheat: Use air fryer or preheated oven. Avoid microwave to keep the skin crispy.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American