Air Fryer Broasted Chicken: A Tasty, Crispy Treat?

Broasted chicken is a trademarked term for chicken that has been pressure-fried using a specific combination of marinades, coatings, and equipment. While it is possible to air-fry chicken, it cannot be called broasted unless it adheres to the specific requirements set by the trademark owner. Air-fried chicken offers a healthier and less messy alternative to traditional deep-fried chicken, with a similar crispy texture and juicy flavour.

Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken in an air fryer. However, it is recommended to use chicken with skin on as this helps the coating stick to the chicken, creating a crispy outside. Having the bone in also adds moisture and flavour.

If you are using boneless chicken, you might need to adjust the cooking time. For example, chicken strips or chicken breasts without the bone will cook faster, so you will need to keep a close eye on them to avoid overcooking and drying them out.

If you are using boneless chicken breasts, it is recommended to pound the chicken into an even thickness to ensure it cooks evenly. You can also brine the chicken to keep it juicy.

How long should I cook it for?

The cooking time for "broasted" chicken in an air fryer depends on the type of chicken, the thickness of the meat, and whether the chicken is skin-on or skin-off.

Chicken thighs should be cooked in the air fryer for 25-28 minutes, or until they reach a temperature of 180-185°F. If you want to cook chicken thighs to a lower temperature of 165 °F, be aware that the meat fibres may not break down as much, and the chicken may be less tender.

Chicken breasts should be cooked in the air fryer for 25 minutes, depending on their thickness. Larger chicken breasts will take longer to cook. Chicken breasts should be cooked to a temperature of 165 °F.

Chicken tenders will take only 15-16 minutes to cook in the air fryer, depending on their thickness.

It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the brand of air fryer. It is recommended to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken has reached the desired internal temperature.

Additionally, when cooking chicken in an air fryer, it is crucial to ensure that the chicken pieces are not overlapping or touching. The air needs to circulate around the chicken to crisp it up and give it a nice golden layer.

What temperature should I cook it at?

The optimal temperature for cooking chicken in an air fryer depends on the type of chicken being cooked. Chicken tenders, for example, cook in 15-16 minutes at 390 degrees Fahrenheit. Chicken thighs, on the other hand, take 25-28 minutes at the same temperature. Chicken breasts should be cooked for 25 minutes at 390 degrees Fahrenheit, but this may vary depending on their thickness.

It is important to note that the temperature and cooking time may vary depending on the brand of air fryer being used. It is always a good idea to check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached a safe temperature. The recommended internal temperature for chicken is 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Additionally, when cooking chicken in an air fryer, it is crucial to ensure proper air circulation by not overcrowding the basket. This will ensure even cooking and prevent undercooked spots. If needed, cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding.

What can I use instead of buttermilk?

Broasted chicken is a popular dish that can be made in an air fryer. The process involves marinating the chicken in buttermilk before coating it in a breading mixture and cooking it in the air fryer. Buttermilk is a key ingredient in this recipe as it adds flavour and helps the chicken maintain its juiciness, while also creating a crispy exterior.

If you don't have buttermilk on hand, there are several substitutes that you can use instead. Here are some alternatives that will work well in the broasted chicken recipe:

• Milk and Vinegar or Lemon Juice: Add 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a liquid measuring cup, then fill it with milk to the 1-cup line. Stir well and let the mixture sit until it curdles, which should take about 5 minutes. This substitute will give you the same tangy flavour and thickness as buttermilk.
• Milk and Cream of Tartar: If you don't have vinegar or lemon juice, you can use cream of tartar instead. Use 1 3/4 teaspoons of cream of tartar per cup of milk. Cream of tartar can get clumpy when mixed with liquids, so it's best to mix it with the dry ingredients first and then add the milk.
• Lactose-Free Milk and Acid: Buttermilk is lower in lactose than regular milk, so lactose-intolerant individuals may be able to tolerate it. To make a lactose-free substitute, add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a liquid measuring cup, then fill it with lactose-free milk to the 1-cup line.
• Plain Yogurt and Water or Milk: The tangy flavour and thick texture of yogurt are similar to buttermilk, so it makes a good substitute. Mix 6 ounces of plain yogurt with 1/4 cup of water or milk and whisk until smooth.
• Buttermilk Powder and Water: You can buy powdered, dehydrated buttermilk and return it to a liquid state by adding water according to the package instructions. Mix about 1/4 cup of powdered buttermilk with 1 cup of water to get 1 cup of buttermilk substitute.

These substitutes will allow you to achieve similar results to using buttermilk in your broasted chicken recipe. Remember to prepare the chicken by cutting it into pieces, marinating it in the substitute mixture, coating it with the breading mixture, and then air frying it according to the recipe instructions. Enjoy your delicious broasted chicken!

What is the best oil to use?

When it comes to choosing the best oil for broasted chicken, there are several options available, each with its own unique characteristics and benefits. Here are some of the best oils to consider:

Peanut Oil

Peanut oil is a popular choice for deep-frying chicken due to its relatively high smoke point of about 450 degrees Fahrenheit. It has a mild flavour and won't interfere with the taste of the chicken. Peanut oil is also the preferred choice of many restaurants for fried chicken. Additionally, it has the least saturated fat compared to other cooking oils, making it a healthier option. However, it is important to note that peanut oil is expensive and may cause allergic reactions in individuals with nut allergies.

Canola Oil

Canola oil has a high smoke point of 400 degrees Fahrenheit and a neutral flavour, making it an excellent choice for frying chicken. It is also a healthier option as it contains high levels of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids while being low in saturated fats. Canola oil is versatile and can also be used for frying fish.

Vegetable Shortening

Vegetable shortening is commonly used for frying chicken, especially in the South. It has a high smoke point of 360 degrees Fahrenheit, making it ideal for achieving a crispy and golden-brown crust. Vegetable shortening is a solid fat that melts as it heats up, providing excellent browning for your chicken.

Lard

Lard is another traditional option for Southern-style fried chicken recipes. It gives your chicken a rich, savoury flavour and helps create an unparalleled crispy crust. Lard has a smoke point of 370 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a great choice for frying chicken.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a healthy alternative for deep-frying, as it contains high levels of lauric acid and healthy fats. It has a smoke point of 450 degrees Fahrenheit and is lightly flavoured, adding a hint of sweetness to your chicken without overpowering its flavour.

Frequently asked questions