Make-Ahead Magic: Air Fryer Fried Chicken Tricks

Air fryer fried chicken is a healthier and easier alternative to traditional fried chicken. It is made with a fraction of the oil used in classic recipes, resulting in a dish that is less messy, lower in fat and calories, and quicker to prepare. The chicken is typically marinated in buttermilk and hot sauce before being coated in a seasoned flour mixture and air-fried to perfection.

While air fryer fried chicken may not have the same consistency as deep-fried chicken, it still delivers a crispy and juicy outcome that is well worth trying. It can be served hot or cold and is perfect for picnics, lunches, or as a tasty snack.

Marinating the chicken

The buttermilk and hot sauce mixture is key to this process. The buttermilk helps the breading to adhere to the chicken, while the hot sauce adds a bit of zing without making the chicken spicy. The chicken should be submerged in this mixture and left to marinate, with the option to cover and refrigerate for a longer period of time.

After marinating, the chicken is then coated in a breading mixture. This usually consists of flour, cornstarch, and various seasonings such as garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. The chicken pieces are dredged in the flour mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.

It is important to note that the chicken should be as dry as possible before coating to ensure the breading adheres properly. Additionally, the chicken can be placed in the fridge for 10-15 minutes after breading to help the coating stay on during the frying process.

Breading the chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken pieces. You can use a variety of chicken cuts, including bone-in and skin-on chicken thighs, drumsticks, and breasts. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove any moisture, as this will help the coating adhere better.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine buttermilk and spices such as salt, garlic powder, pepper, and hot sauce (optional). The buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken and adds flavour. Let the chicken pieces soak in this mixture for at least 10 minutes to an hour, or even up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. This step is essential for a juicy and flavourful chicken.

Step 3: Prepare the Breading Station

Set up a breading station with two shallow dishes or bowls. In one dish, whisk together the flour, cornstarch (optional), and your choice of seasonings. You can use a variety of seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, or cayenne pepper. In the other dish, whisk together some eggs (optional) or additional buttermilk.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Now, it's time to coat the chicken! Using tongs, take a piece of chicken from the marinade, allowing the excess to drip off. Then, dip it into the flour mixture, making sure to coat all sides evenly. Shake off any excess flour, and then dip the chicken into the egg or buttermilk mixture. Finally, coat the chicken with the flour mixture once again, ensuring a thorough coating.

Step 5: Rest the Chicken

Place the coated chicken pieces on a wire rack or a foil-lined baking sheet. Let them rest while you preheat your air fryer to 390°F for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the coating to set and helps ensure that the breading will stay intact during frying.

Step 6: Spray with Oil

Lightly spray or brush both sides of the chicken pieces with oil. You can use canola oil, vegetable oil, or olive oil. This step helps the chicken achieve that crispy texture and ensures that the flour coating is hydrated.

Step 7: Air Fry the Chicken

Place the chicken pieces in the air fryer basket, making sure they don't overlap. Cook at 390°F for about 15-25 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through. The exact cooking time will depend on the size and type of chicken pieces you're using. Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check if the chicken is done. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Tips for Perfect Breading:

• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook the chicken in batches if needed.
• If you prefer a thicker coating, you can double-dip the chicken in the flour mixture before air frying.
• For a crispier texture, place the breaded chicken in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before air frying.

Cooking the chicken

Air fryer fried chicken is a healthier and easier alternative to traditional fried chicken. The cooking time will depend on the cut of chicken and how full your air fryer basket is. Here is a step-by-step guide to cooking juicy and tender air fryer fried chicken:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Add spices and buttermilk to a large bowl, along with the chicken. You can also add hot sauce to the mixture for extra flavour. Let the chicken sit for at least 10 minutes or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Mixture

In a separate bowl, combine flour, cornstarch (optional), and seasonings. You can use a variety of seasonings such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning. Whisk the mixture to ensure the flour is fully seasoned.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Using tongs, remove the chicken from the buttermilk mixture, shaking off any excess. Then, dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, ensuring both sides are well coated. You can also double-coat the chicken by dipping it in the buttermilk mixture and flour mixture twice. Place the coated chicken on a foil-lined baking sheet or wire rack to rest.

Step 4: Prepare the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 350-390 degrees Fahrenheit. Generously spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking. You can also line the air fryer with parchment paper, specifically designed for air fryers, to prevent the chicken from sticking and make clean-up easier.

Step 5: Air Fry the Chicken

Place the chicken in the air fryer in a single layer, ensuring the pieces do not overlap. Air needs to circulate around them. Spray the chicken with cooking spray or oil. Air fry at 350-390 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-25 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit when checked with a meat thermometer.

Step 6: Check and Adjust

About halfway through the cooking time, open the air fryer and check for dry spots on the chicken. Spray any dry spots with oil to ensure an even crisp.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Air fryer fried chicken is best served fresh, but it can also be enjoyed cold straight from the refrigerator.

Reheating the chicken

When it comes to reheating your air fryer fried chicken, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure it stays crispy and delicious. Firstly, avoid using the microwave at all costs, as it will make the breading soggy. Instead, use your air fryer or a preheated oven to reheat your chicken.

If you're using an air fryer, preheat it to 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 4 to 5 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through. This will help preserve the crispy goodness of your fried chicken. Alternatively, you can use a preheated oven set to 300 degrees Fahrenheit and bake the chicken for 8 to 10 minutes. This method will also keep the crust relatively crispy and heat the pieces evenly.

It's worth noting that fried chicken is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken in a ziplock bag for up to 6 months.

When reheating your chicken, whether in the air fryer or the oven, make sure to flip the pieces halfway through to ensure even heating. Additionally, if you're using an air fryer, you can mist any dry spots with a little oil to help maintain the crispiness.

Now you know all about reheating your air fryer fried chicken! Enjoy your delicious leftovers.

Storing the chicken

Air fryer fried chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 or 5 days. It can also be frozen for up to 6 months. When reheating, it is best to use an air fryer or a preheated oven at 300°F or 375°F for about 8 to 10 minutes. Do not use a microwave, as this will make the skin soggy.

If you are storing leftover fried chicken, it is best to place it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. To reheat, warm the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F until warmed through.

If you want to freeze the chicken, place the cooked pieces in an airtight container or a ziplock bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen in a preheated oven at 350°F for 30 to 40 minutes.

It is important to note that air fryer fried chicken is best served on the same day it is made. However, if you do have leftovers, it is recommended to reheat them in the air fryer to maintain the crispy texture.

Frequently asked questions