Air Fryer Fried Chicken Crispy and Juicy Delight

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- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on) - 1 cup buttermilk - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon salt - ½ teaspoon black pepper - 1 cup all-purpose flour - ½ cup cornmeal - Cooking spray To make this air fryer fried chicken, you need fresh chicken thighs. I love using bone-in, skin-on thighs. They give great flavor and stay juicy during cooking. The buttermilk is key for the marinade. It makes the chicken tender and adds a rich taste. The spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika add warmth and depth. The coating is a mix of flour and cornmeal. This combo gives a nice crunch when cooked. Don't forget the cooking spray! It helps achieve that golden color and crispy texture. - Seasoning additions - Dipping sauces You can add more spices if you like. Think cayenne for heat or herbs for freshness. Try using fresh herbs in the marinade for a twist. Dipping sauces are fun too! Honey mustard or ranch make great choices. They add an extra layer of flavor and make your meal special. For the full recipe, check out the details above! To start, you need to prepare the marinade. In a large bowl, mix 1 cup of buttermilk with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir it well. This mix makes the chicken tasty and tender. Next, add the chicken thighs to the bowl. Make sure each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Let it sit in the fridge for at least 2 hours. For best results, marinate overnight. This allows the flavors to soak in. Now, let's prepare the coating. Grab another bowl and mix 1 cup of all-purpose flour with ½ cup of cornmeal. This combination gives the chicken a great crunch. For a perfect coating, shake off any extra flour mix. You want an even layer on the chicken. This step helps the crust turn golden brown. Before cooking, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is key to achieving that crispy outer layer. It usually takes about 5 minutes. Once it's hot, place the coated chicken thighs in the basket. Make sure they are in a single layer. Give them some space for air to flow. Lightly spray the chicken with cooking spray. This step enhances the crispiness. Cook the chicken for 25 to 30 minutes. Flip the thighs halfway through for even cooking. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and look golden brown. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above. Enjoy your crispy air fryer chicken delight! To get that perfect crunch, use cooking spray. This helps the coating crisp up nicely. Without it, the chicken might turn out soggy. Make sure you coat the chicken lightly, so it does not get too oily. Air circulation in the air fryer is key. Place the chicken pieces in a single layer. Avoid stacking them. This allows hot air to flow around each piece, ensuring even cooking. If you have extra chicken, cook it in batches. Marinating the chicken is essential. Buttermilk tenderizes the meat and adds flavor. It breaks down proteins, giving you juicy chicken. Aim to marinate for at least two hours, but overnight is best. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. You want it to reach 165°F (75°C). This ensures the chicken is safe to eat and still moist. Serving matters just as much as cooking. Arrange the crispy chicken on a wooden platter for a rustic look. It makes your meal feel special. Garnish the chicken with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. A pop of color always looks nice and adds flavor. Pair it with a small bowl of dipping sauce, too. Honey mustard or ranch works well. This invites everyone to dig in and enjoy! {{image_4}} To make your air fryer fried chicken spicy, add heat with spices like cayenne pepper or chili powder. You can mix these spices into the buttermilk marinade. For a different kick, try using hot sauce in the marinade. It gives the chicken a bold flavor! You can also create a spicy dry rub. Mix paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Rub it on the chicken before coating. If you need a gluten-free option, swap the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour. For the cornmeal, use gluten-free cornmeal. You can also use crushed gluten-free crackers for a crispy texture. These substitutions give you the crunch without the gluten. Using fresh herbs can take your chicken to a new level. Add herbs like rosemary, sage, or basil to the buttermilk marinade. This will give the chicken a fresh taste. You can even mix herbs into the coating. Try adding dried oregano or thyme for a herbal crunch. Each herb changes the flavor profile of your dish beautifully. For the full recipe, check out the Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Delight! For leftover air fryer fried chicken, let it cool down first. Place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep the chicken skin side up. This helps maintain its crunch. If you want to save it longer, freeze the chicken. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. It can stay good for up to 3 months. To reheat your chicken, the air fryer works best. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in the basket. Heat for about 10 to 15 minutes. This method keeps the skin crispy. You can also use an oven. Set it to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Always check the chicken's internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C) to be safe. Enjoy your crispy air fryer fried chicken again! For the full recipe, check the link provided earlier. You should marinate chicken in buttermilk for at least 2 hours. For best results, try to marinate it overnight. This longer time helps the chicken soak up flavors. The buttermilk makes the meat tender and juicy too. Yes, you can use chicken breasts. However, adjust the cooking time. Chicken breasts usually cook faster than thighs. Check the internal temperature at 165°F. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. This way, you get juicy, tasty chicken. Air fryer fried chicken pairs well with many sides. You can serve it with coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or corn on the cob. Adding a dipping sauce like honey mustard or ranch enhances the meal. Fresh greens or a light salad work too. These sides balance the richness of the chicken. For the complete cooking process, check the Full Recipe. This article covers how to make delicious air fryer fried chicken. You need essential ingredients like chicken thighs and a buttermilk marinade. Steps include marinating, preparing the coating, and air frying. Tips help you achieve crispiness and tenderness. Variations allow you to spice things up or go gluten-free. Lastly, I shared storage tips and answered your FAQs. Remember, with the right ingredients and techniques, you can enjoy crispy fried chicken at home. Explore your options and have fun in the kitchen!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

If you’re craving fried chicken that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, I’ve got you covered! In this post, I’ll guide you through making perfect Air Fryer Fried Chicken. With simple ingredients like chicken thighs and buttermilk, you can create a delicious meal without the guilt of deep frying. Ready to impress your family or friends? Let’s dive into the tasty details!

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Ingredients

Essential Ingredients

– 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)

– 1 cup buttermilk

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon salt

– ½ teaspoon black pepper

– 1 cup all-purpose flour

– ½ cup cornmeal

– Cooking spray

To make this air fryer fried chicken, you need fresh chicken thighs. I love using bone-in, skin-on thighs. They give great flavor and stay juicy during cooking. The buttermilk is key for the marinade. It makes the chicken tender and adds a rich taste. The spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika add warmth and depth.

The coating is a mix of flour and cornmeal. This combo gives a nice crunch when cooked. Don’t forget the cooking spray! It helps achieve that golden color and crispy texture.

Optional Ingredients

– Seasoning additions

– Dipping sauces

You can add more spices if you like. Think cayenne for heat or herbs for freshness. Try using fresh herbs in the marinade for a twist. Dipping sauces are fun too! Honey mustard or ranch make great choices. They add an extra layer of flavor and make your meal special. For the full recipe, check out the details above!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinating the Chicken

To start, you need to prepare the marinade. In a large bowl, mix 1 cup of buttermilk with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir it well. This mix makes the chicken tasty and tender. Next, add the chicken thighs to the bowl. Make sure each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Let it sit in the fridge for at least 2 hours. For best results, marinate overnight. This allows the flavors to soak in.

Preparing the Coating

Now, let’s prepare the coating. Grab another bowl and mix 1 cup of all-purpose flour with ½ cup of cornmeal. This combination gives the chicken a great crunch. For a perfect coating, shake off any extra flour mix. You want an even layer on the chicken. This step helps the crust turn golden brown.

Air Frying the Chicken

Before cooking, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is key to achieving that crispy outer layer. It usually takes about 5 minutes. Once it’s hot, place the coated chicken thighs in the basket. Make sure they are in a single layer. Give them some space for air to flow. Lightly spray the chicken with cooking spray. This step enhances the crispiness. Cook the chicken for 25 to 30 minutes. Flip the thighs halfway through for even cooking. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and look golden brown.

For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above. Enjoy your crispy air fryer chicken delight!

Tips & Tricks

Achieving Crispiness

To get that perfect crunch, use cooking spray. This helps the coating crisp up nicely. Without it, the chicken might turn out soggy. Make sure you coat the chicken lightly, so it does not get too oily.

Air circulation in the air fryer is key. Place the chicken pieces in a single layer. Avoid stacking them. This allows hot air to flow around each piece, ensuring even cooking. If you have extra chicken, cook it in batches.

Ensuring Tender Chicken

Marinating the chicken is essential. Buttermilk tenderizes the meat and adds flavor. It breaks down proteins, giving you juicy chicken. Aim to marinate for at least two hours, but overnight is best.

Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. You want it to reach 165°F (75°C). This ensures the chicken is safe to eat and still moist.

Presentation Tips

Serving matters just as much as cooking. Arrange the crispy chicken on a wooden platter for a rustic look. It makes your meal feel special.

Garnish the chicken with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. A pop of color always looks nice and adds flavor. Pair it with a small bowl of dipping sauce, too. Honey mustard or ranch works well. This invites everyone to dig in and enjoy!

Variations

Spicy Air Fryer Fried Chicken

To make your air fryer fried chicken spicy, add heat with spices like cayenne pepper or chili powder. You can mix these spices into the buttermilk marinade. For a different kick, try using hot sauce in the marinade. It gives the chicken a bold flavor! You can also create a spicy dry rub. Mix paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Rub it on the chicken before coating.

Gluten-Free Options

If you need a gluten-free option, swap the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour. For the cornmeal, use gluten-free cornmeal. You can also use crushed gluten-free crackers for a crispy texture. These substitutions give you the crunch without the gluten.

Herb-infused Variations

Using fresh herbs can take your chicken to a new level. Add herbs like rosemary, sage, or basil to the buttermilk marinade. This will give the chicken a fresh taste. You can even mix herbs into the coating. Try adding dried oregano or thyme for a herbal crunch. Each herb changes the flavor profile of your dish beautifully.

For the full recipe, check out the Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Delight!

Storage Info

Storage Guidelines

For leftover air fryer fried chicken, let it cool down first. Place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep the chicken skin side up. This helps maintain its crunch. If you want to save it longer, freeze the chicken. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. It can stay good for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat your chicken, the air fryer works best. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in the basket. Heat for about 10 to 15 minutes. This method keeps the skin crispy. You can also use an oven. Set it to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Always check the chicken’s internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C) to be safe. Enjoy your crispy air fryer fried chicken again! For the full recipe, check the link provided earlier.

FAQs

How long to marinate chicken in buttermilk?

You should marinate chicken in buttermilk for at least 2 hours. For best results, try to marinate it overnight. This longer time helps the chicken soak up flavors. The buttermilk makes the meat tender and juicy too.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts. However, adjust the cooking time. Chicken breasts usually cook faster than thighs. Check the internal temperature at 165°F. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. This way, you get juicy, tasty chicken.

What to serve with air fryer fried chicken?

Air fryer fried chicken pairs well with many sides. You can serve it with coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or corn on the cob. Adding a dipping sauce like honey mustard or ranch enhances the meal. Fresh greens or a light salad work too. These sides balance the richness of the chicken.

For the complete cooking process, check the Full Recipe.

This article covers how to make delicious air fryer fried chicken. You need essential ingredients like chicken thighs and a buttermilk marinade. Steps include marinating, preparing the coating, and air frying. Tips help you achieve crispiness and tenderness. Variations allow you to spice things up or go gluten-free. Lastly, I shared storage tips and answered your FAQs.

Remember, with the right ingredients and techniques, you can enjoy crispy fried chicken at home. Explore your options and have fun in the kitchen!

- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on) - 1 cup buttermilk - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon salt - ½ teaspoon black pepper - 1 cup all-purpose flour - ½ cup cornmeal - Cooking spray To make this air fryer fried chicken, you need fresh chicken thighs. I love using bone-in, skin-on thighs. They give great flavor and stay juicy during cooking. The buttermilk is key for the marinade. It makes the chicken tender and adds a rich taste. The spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika add warmth and depth. The coating is a mix of flour and cornmeal. This combo gives a nice crunch when cooked. Don't forget the cooking spray! It helps achieve that golden color and crispy texture. - Seasoning additions - Dipping sauces You can add more spices if you like. Think cayenne for heat or herbs for freshness. Try using fresh herbs in the marinade for a twist. Dipping sauces are fun too! Honey mustard or ranch make great choices. They add an extra layer of flavor and make your meal special. For the full recipe, check out the details above! To start, you need to prepare the marinade. In a large bowl, mix 1 cup of buttermilk with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir it well. This mix makes the chicken tasty and tender. Next, add the chicken thighs to the bowl. Make sure each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Let it sit in the fridge for at least 2 hours. For best results, marinate overnight. This allows the flavors to soak in. Now, let's prepare the coating. Grab another bowl and mix 1 cup of all-purpose flour with ½ cup of cornmeal. This combination gives the chicken a great crunch. For a perfect coating, shake off any extra flour mix. You want an even layer on the chicken. This step helps the crust turn golden brown. Before cooking, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is key to achieving that crispy outer layer. It usually takes about 5 minutes. Once it's hot, place the coated chicken thighs in the basket. Make sure they are in a single layer. Give them some space for air to flow. Lightly spray the chicken with cooking spray. This step enhances the crispiness. Cook the chicken for 25 to 30 minutes. Flip the thighs halfway through for even cooking. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and look golden brown. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above. Enjoy your crispy air fryer chicken delight! To get that perfect crunch, use cooking spray. This helps the coating crisp up nicely. Without it, the chicken might turn out soggy. Make sure you coat the chicken lightly, so it does not get too oily. Air circulation in the air fryer is key. Place the chicken pieces in a single layer. Avoid stacking them. This allows hot air to flow around each piece, ensuring even cooking. If you have extra chicken, cook it in batches. Marinating the chicken is essential. Buttermilk tenderizes the meat and adds flavor. It breaks down proteins, giving you juicy chicken. Aim to marinate for at least two hours, but overnight is best. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. You want it to reach 165°F (75°C). This ensures the chicken is safe to eat and still moist. Serving matters just as much as cooking. Arrange the crispy chicken on a wooden platter for a rustic look. It makes your meal feel special. Garnish the chicken with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. A pop of color always looks nice and adds flavor. Pair it with a small bowl of dipping sauce, too. Honey mustard or ranch works well. This invites everyone to dig in and enjoy! {{image_4}} To make your air fryer fried chicken spicy, add heat with spices like cayenne pepper or chili powder. You can mix these spices into the buttermilk marinade. For a different kick, try using hot sauce in the marinade. It gives the chicken a bold flavor! You can also create a spicy dry rub. Mix paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Rub it on the chicken before coating. If you need a gluten-free option, swap the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour. For the cornmeal, use gluten-free cornmeal. You can also use crushed gluten-free crackers for a crispy texture. These substitutions give you the crunch without the gluten. Using fresh herbs can take your chicken to a new level. Add herbs like rosemary, sage, or basil to the buttermilk marinade. This will give the chicken a fresh taste. You can even mix herbs into the coating. Try adding dried oregano or thyme for a herbal crunch. Each herb changes the flavor profile of your dish beautifully. For the full recipe, check out the Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Delight! For leftover air fryer fried chicken, let it cool down first. Place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep the chicken skin side up. This helps maintain its crunch. If you want to save it longer, freeze the chicken. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. It can stay good for up to 3 months. To reheat your chicken, the air fryer works best. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in the basket. Heat for about 10 to 15 minutes. This method keeps the skin crispy. You can also use an oven. Set it to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Always check the chicken's internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C) to be safe. Enjoy your crispy air fryer fried chicken again! For the full recipe, check the link provided earlier. You should marinate chicken in buttermilk for at least 2 hours. For best results, try to marinate it overnight. This longer time helps the chicken soak up flavors. The buttermilk makes the meat tender and juicy too. Yes, you can use chicken breasts. However, adjust the cooking time. Chicken breasts usually cook faster than thighs. Check the internal temperature at 165°F. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. This way, you get juicy, tasty chicken. Air fryer fried chicken pairs well with many sides. You can serve it with coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or corn on the cob. Adding a dipping sauce like honey mustard or ranch enhances the meal. Fresh greens or a light salad work too. These sides balance the richness of the chicken. For the complete cooking process, check the Full Recipe. This article covers how to make delicious air fryer fried chicken. You need essential ingredients like chicken thighs and a buttermilk marinade. Steps include marinating, preparing the coating, and air frying. Tips help you achieve crispiness and tenderness. Variations allow you to spice things up or go gluten-free. Lastly, I shared storage tips and answered your FAQs. Remember, with the right ingredients and techniques, you can enjoy crispy fried chicken at home. Explore your options and have fun in the kitchen!

Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Enjoy a delicious and crispy Air Fryer Chicken Delight that’s easy to make and perfect for family dinners! With juicy marinated chicken thighs coated in a flavorful flour and cornmeal mixture, this recipe promises a crunchy texture and mouthwatering taste. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s a meal everyone will love. Click through to discover this simple recipe and elevate your cooking skills today!
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Ingredients
  

4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 cup all-purpose flour

½ cup cornmeal

Cooking spray

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a spacious bowl, mix the buttermilk with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Submerge the chicken thighs in this flavorful marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours, preferably overnight, to enhance the flavor and tenderness.

    Prepare the Coating: In a separate mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the all-purpose flour and cornmeal. This mixture not only contributes a delightful texture but also a golden color to the chicken as it cooks.

      Coat the Chicken: Remove each chicken thigh from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Next, dredge the chicken in the flour and cornmeal coating, ensuring that each piece is evenly covered. Gently shake off any excess mixture to avoid clumping.

        Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to preheat at 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy outer layer.

          Air Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the coated chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are arranged in a single layer with enough space in between for proper air circulation. Lightly spray the chicken with cooking spray to promote a beautiful golden crust. Cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping the thighs halfway through the cooking time, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the skin appears crispy and brown.

            Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for several minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Serve the chicken while hot, and relish the crunch!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 40 mins | 4 servings

                - Presentation Tips: For an appealing presentation, arrange the crispy chicken on a rustic wooden platter. Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme. Alongside, place a small bowl of dipping sauce like honey mustard or ranch, inviting a flavorful contrast to the crispy chicken.

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