If you've been wondering **how to cook fried chicken in an air fryer**, this guide is for you! Whether you're new to air frying or just looking for the perfect fried chicken recipe, this article has you covered. Let's dive into the detailed steps you need to follow to achieve that perfect crispy exterior and juicy interior using your air fryer.

Why Choose an Air Fryer?

The air fryer has revolutionized home cooking, providing a healthier and convenient alternative to traditional frying methods. Fried chicken made in an air fryer uses significantly less oil, making it a healthier option. Additionally, air fryers cook food quickly and evenly, ensuring that your **fried chicken** is crispy on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside.

Ingredients

Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients and ensure your **air fryer** is clean and ready to use. Marinating the chicken in buttermilk for at least 2 hours (or overnight) tenderizes the meat and enhances the flavor. This step is crucial for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth goodness that makes **fried chicken** so irresistible.

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, pour the buttermilk over the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This allows the buttermilk to tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

While the chicken is marinating, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using) in a separate bowl. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour. This coating mixture will give your **fried chicken** its signature crispy crust.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let any excess buttermilk drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring it is thoroughly coated. Place the coated chicken on a tray or cutting board to rest for a few minutes. This allows the coating to adhere better to the chicken.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375F (190C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating is an essential step as it ensures your fried chicken will cook evenly and achieve that desirable crispiness.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Lightly spray the basket of the **air fryer** with vegetable oil spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch or overlap. Lightly spray the tops of the chicken with vegetable oil spray to aid in crisping. Cook the chicken at 375F (190C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. The chicken should be golden brown and have an internal temperature of at least 165F (74C).

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the **air fryer** using tongs. Place the fried chicken on a cooling rack or paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve your delicious **fried chicken** hot with your favorite sides.

Troubleshooting Tips

Cooking **fried chicken in an air fryer** can be a bit tricky, especially if you're new to using this handy appliance. Here are some common issues and solutions to help you perfect your air-fried chicken.

Chicken Isn't Crispy

If your **fried chicken** isn't as crispy as you'd like, ensure you're not overcrowding the air fryer basket. Overlapping pieces can result in uneven cooking and less crispiness. Additionally, make sure you're preheating your air fryer and using a light spray of oil to aid in the crisping process.

Chicken Is Undercooked

If the chicken is undercooked, check the size of your chicken pieces. Larger pieces will need more time to cook thoroughly. Always use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached at least 165F (74C) before serving. If necessary, cook the chicken for a few more minutes until fully done.

Chicken Is Dry

Dry chicken can result from overcooking. Keep a close eye on your chicken towards the end of the cooking time. Removing the chicken from the air fryer as soon as it's done will help retain its juiciness. Additionally, marinating the chicken in buttermilk helps to keep the meat moist during cooking.

Health Benefits and Nutritional Information

One of the primary reasons people choose to cook **fried chicken** in an air fryer is for the health benefits. Traditional frying methods can add a significant amount of fat and calories to your food, but air frying uses much less oil, resulting in a healthier dish. Learn more about the health benefits and nutritional information for air-fried chicken.

Lower Fat Content

Air frying significantly reduces the fat content compared to traditional frying. This method cuts out the need for large amounts of oil, reducing the calorie count without compromising on taste. You can enjoy the deliciousness of **fried chicken** without the extra guilt!

Fewer Calories

With less oil absorption during cooking, air-fried chicken has fewer calories than its deep-fried counterpart. Learn more about how this makes it a great option for those watching their calorie intake or looking to maintain a healthy diet while still enjoying their favorite foods.

High Protein Content

Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall health. By cooking **fried chicken** in an air fryer, you retain the protein content without the added fat, providing a healthier source of this vital nutrient.

Recommended Cookware and Cleaning Tips

To make the most of your cooking experience, using the right cookware is essential. Here are some recommended items that will enhance your air frying journey:

• Air Fryer
• Knives Set
• Cutting Board

Keeping your cookware in top condition is also important for achieving the best cooking results:

• Stainless Steel Cleaner
• Cutting Board Conditioner

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