Name: Air Fryer Fried Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: ¾ cup all-purpose flour for the crispy coating; ¼ cup cornstarch to make the crust extra light and crunchy; 1 tablespoon paprika for color and mild smoky flavor; 1 tablespoon garlic powder for bold seasoning; 2 teaspoons onion powder to boost the savory depth; 2 teaspoons dried oregano for a hint of herbiness; 2 teaspoons salt (or more to taste); 1 teaspoon black pepper for a mild bite; ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional - see note for adjusting spice level); 1 cup buttermilk to tenderize the chicken and add tang; 2 eggs to help bind the coating; 1 ½ to 2 pounds bone-in (skin-on chicken thighs and/or drumsticks); canola oil (olive oil, or another vegetable oil spray for crisping in the oven or air fryer)

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Craving that classic fried chicken crunch without the deep-fryer mess? This air fryer fried chicken delivers all the golden, juicy goodness you love — but with a lighter feel and much less oil. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a weekend treat, or impressing guests with comfort food made smarter. 😍

Why This Recipe Works

✅ Extra Crispy Crust – Thanks to a smart mix of flour, cornstarch & air frying
✅ Juicy Interior – Buttermilk keeps every bite tender and flavorful
✅ No Deep Fryer Needed – Less oil, less mess, same crave-worthy crunch
✅ Bold Seasoning – Smoky, herby, and perfectly seasoned every time
✅ Perfect for Sharing – A guaranteed crowd-pleaser for all ages

🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need (and Why)

1½ to 2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks – These cuts stay juicy and develop an amazing crust. Avoid boneless or skinless here for best results.
¾ cup all-purpose flour – A staple for the crispy coating.
¼ cup cornstarch – Lightens the flour and makes the exterior ultra-crunchy.
1 tbsp paprika – Adds subtle smoky flavor and a beautiful golden color.
1 tbsp garlic powder – For depth and richness in every bite.
2 tsp onion powder – Boosts umami and brings savory balance.
2 tsp dried oregano – A touch of herbaceous flavor to round it out.
2 tsp salt – Enhances every flavor in the coating and meat.
1 tsp black pepper – Classic warmth and balance.
½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional) – Gives a little kick. Adjust or omit depending on your spice preference 🌶️
1 cup buttermilk – Tenderizes the chicken and adds tangy richness. If unavailable, you can use milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice.
2 large eggs – Help the coating stick and hold during air frying.
Oil spray (canola, olive, or vegetable) – Essential for crisping in the air fryer without deep frying.

👨‍🍳 How to Make Fried Chicken in the Air Fryer

Step 1: Prep the Coating Mix
In a shallow dish (like a pie plate), combine flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Mix until evenly combined.

Step 2: Whisk the Wet Mix
In a separate bowl, whisk the buttermilk and eggs until smooth.

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken
One piece at a time:

Dip chicken in flour mixture
Then into buttermilk mixture
Then back into the flour mixture
Shake off excess at each step. You’re aiming for a light, even coating, not thick clumps.

Step 4: Spray and Load the Basket
Generously spray all sides of the coated chicken with oil. Place in the air fryer basket in a single layer, skin-side down. (Work in batches if needed.)

Step 5: Cook It Right

Air fry at 370°F (188°C) for 15 minutes
Flip the chicken
Air fry for another 8–15 minutes, until golden brown and the internal temp is at least 165°F (74°C)

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Let it rest briefly, then dig in while it’s hot and crispy! 🍗

🍽 What to Serve With Fried Chicken

🥔 Mashed potatoes or garlic smashed potatoes
🥬 Coleslaw – A cool, tangy contrast
🍞 Biscuits or cornbread – Southern-style vibes
🌽 Corn on the cob – Sweet and buttery pairing
🥗 Green beans, collard greens, or salad – For balance and color

💡 Tips for Air Fryer Chicken Success

Use bone-in skin-on chicken – For flavor and juiciness
Don’t skip the oil spray – It helps develop that crispy texture
Cook in batches – Don’t overcrowd the basket
Use a meat thermometer – Essential for food safety
Let it rest before serving – It helps redistribute juices and preserve crunch

❄️ Storage & Reheating

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Reheat: Air fry at 350°F for 5–7 minutes to crisp back up
Freezing: Best when fresh, but you can freeze cooked pieces wrapped tightly and reheat in the oven

❓FAQs

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend and cornstarch as directed.

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: You can coat the chicken and refrigerate it for up to 12 hours before cooking.

Q: What if I don’t have buttermilk?
A: Mix 1 cup milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice or white vinegar, and let sit for 5–10 minutes.

Q: Can I use boneless chicken?
A: You can, but reduce cooking time and keep a close eye to avoid over-drying.

❤️ Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to recreate that classic fried chicken experience without the grease, this air fryer version is about to become your go-to. With its crispy, golden coating and tender, flavorful meat, it delivers on all the cravings — but with a lighter twist and less mess in the kitchen.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or even meal prep, this recipe adapts beautifully to your needs. Want it spicier? Turn up the cayenne. Feeding picky eaters? Skip the heat and serve with a side of honey or ranch. And because it’s air-fried, cleanup is a breeze — no splattering oil or heavy frying pans in sight.

What truly sets this recipe apart is its flexibility: the bold seasoning makes every bite sing, but it’s also a blank canvas for your own flair. Add hot honey, make it Nashville-style, or go herb-forward with rosemary and thyme.

Whether you’re new to the air fryer game or already obsessed, this crispy fried chicken proves that healthier cooking doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. Just juicy, crunchy, satisfying bites — every single time.

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