Air Fryer Rotisserie Chicken: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Cooking a rotisserie chicken in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get delicious, juicy meat with a crispy skin. The cooking time depends on the size of the chicken and the type of air fryer being used. On average, a whole chicken will take between 35 and 60 minutes to cook in an air fryer.

Choosing the right chicken size

Chicken Size Recommendations:

• Air Fryer Capacity: The size of your air fryer will dictate the size of the chicken you can accommodate. If you have a smaller air fryer (around 3 to 4 quarts), opt for a smaller chicken. For a standard to large air fryer (4 to 7 quarts), a chicken up to 4.5 pounds or 2 kilos is ideal.
• Spit Rotisserie Function: If your air fryer has a spit rotisserie function, choose a smaller chicken, preferably under 4.5 pounds or 2 kilos. This ensures adequate space for the chicken to rotate freely.
• Basket Style Air Fryer: If you're using a basket-style air fryer without a rotisserie function, you can go for a slightly larger chicken, up to 5 or 6 pounds. However, always check that your chicken fits comfortably in the basket.

Cooking Time Considerations:

• Cooking Time Varies: The cooking time for your rotisserie chicken will depend on the size of the chicken and the specific model of your air fryer. A good rule of thumb is to allow 12 to 15 minutes of cooking time per pound of chicken.
• Don't Overcrowd: Avoid overcrowding your air fryer. If your chicken is too large, it may not cook evenly, and you may end up with dry or undercooked parts.
• Temperature Check: The best way to ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken, avoiding the bone. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked.

Remember, choosing the right chicken size is essential for achieving the best results with your air fryer rotisserie chicken. By following these guidelines, you'll be able to create delicious, juicy, and evenly cooked meals every time.

Preparing the chicken

Firstly, you'll want to ensure you have a chicken that's the right size for your air fryer. A small to medium-sized chicken is best—up to around 4.5 pounds or 2 kilos in weight.

Next, make your spice rub. You can use a homemade rub with herbs and spices such as dried oregano, thyme, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, or a store-bought spice mix. You can also add a little honey and soy sauce to your rub for a shiny, crispy skin.

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Then, drizzle or brush the chicken with olive oil and rub the spices on both sides. If you're using a lemon in your rub, stuff the remainder of the lemon inside the chicken.

If your air fryer has a rotisserie function, secure the chicken on the spit and tie the legs tightly with butcher's string. Ensure the chicken can rotate freely on the spit.

Place the chicken breast-side down in the air fryer basket. If your air fryer doesn't have a rotisserie function, you can skip this step and place the chicken breast-side up.

Now, you're ready to cook your chicken!

Air fryer temperature

The air fryer temperature you use to cook a rotisserie chicken will depend on the size of your chicken and the size and wattage of your air fryer.

If you are using an air fryer with a rotisserie function, you can cook a whole chicken in around 40 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Check the internal temperature of the chicken after 35 minutes. It is cooked when it reaches 165-167°F (74-75°C) in the thickest part of the breast, avoiding the bone.

If you are using a standard air fryer, you can cook a whole chicken in around 50 minutes at 350-360°F (175-182°C). Place the chicken breast side down in the basket and cook for 25-30 minutes. Then, flip the chicken over and cook for a further 25-30 minutes. The chicken is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

It is recommended to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of your chicken. This will ensure that your chicken is cooked perfectly and safely.

It is also important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the size of your chicken and the model and wattage of your air fryer. A good rule of thumb is to allow 12-15 minutes of cooking time per pound (450g) of chicken.

Additionally, it is recommended to preheat your air fryer for 5-10 minutes before adding the chicken. This will ensure even cooking and help you achieve the perfect rotisserie-style chicken.

Cooking time

The cooking time for rotisserie chicken in an air fryer depends on the size of the chicken and the type of air fryer being used.

For a standard air fryer, it is recommended to use a small to medium-sized chicken, weighing up to 4.5 pounds or 2 kilos. For a chicken of this size, the cooking time will typically be between 50 minutes and 1 hour. This includes an initial cooking period of 20-30 minutes with the chicken breast side down, followed by a further 25-30 minutes with the chicken breast side up.

If you are using an oven-style air fryer with a rotisserie function, you can cook a slightly larger chicken as this type of air fryer usually has more space. A chicken weighing 4.5 pounds or 2 kilos will take around 40 minutes to cook in this type of air fryer.

It is important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the model and wattage of your air fryer, so it is always a good idea to check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it is fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F or 74°C in the thickest part of the breast.

Additionally, it is recommended to let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute and keep the meat moist and juicy.

Resting the chicken

During the resting period, the chicken's internal temperature will continue to rise slightly, so it is important to take this into account when checking if the chicken is cooked. A meat thermometer is a useful tool to determine if the chicken is done. Insert it into the thickest part of the breast, avoiding the bone, and ensure it reads at least 165°F (74°C).

While the chicken is resting, you can make a simple gravy using the juices that have collected at the bottom of the air fryer. Simply skim off any excess fat and serve the juices as a French-style 'jus', or add cornflour and chicken stock for a more traditional gravy.

Additionally, resting the chicken gives you the perfect opportunity to prepare some sides to go with your meal. You could make mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a green salad.

In conclusion, resting the chicken is a crucial step in ensuring your rotisserie chicken is juicy and cooked to perfection. Use this time to prepare your sides and any sauces, and your air-fried rotisserie chicken will be a delicious and impressive meal.

Frequently asked questions