Air-Fried Chicken: Perfect Timing For Juicy Results

Air fryers are a convenient and healthy way to cook a whole roast chicken in about an hour, with minimal prep and a juicy, tender result. The air fryer method is also a great option if you're short on oven space or want to avoid dry, overcooked meat. The key to achieving a crispy skin is to coat the chicken in oil and cook it breast-side down for most of the cooking time.

How to get the skin crispy

To get the skin of your roast chicken crispy, there are a few things you can do. Firstly, make sure you are roasting the chicken breast-side down for the first half of the cooking time. This will help to keep the breast meat moist and allow the skin to crisp up.

Secondly, ensure that the chicken skin is well coated with oil before cooking. You can use a pastry brush to ensure the oil is distributed evenly and that every nook and cranny is covered. If you want to add extra flavour, you can mix the oil with spices such as smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, poultry seasoning, or dried mixed herbs. You only need a small amount of oil—around 1 tablespoon is enough for a whole chicken.

Thirdly, don't skip the resting step. This allows the juices to absorb back into the meat, keeping the chicken moist and juicy, and it also gives the skin a chance to crisp up further.

Finally, if you want to be absolutely sure that your chicken skin is crispy, you can finish it off under a grill or in a hot oven for a few minutes. This will give the skin a final blast of heat and help it to crisp up even more.

How long to cook for a smaller chicken

If you're using an air fryer to cook a smaller chicken, you'll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. While a larger chicken may take up to an hour to cook, a smaller chicken will likely take less time. Here are some detailed instructions on how long to cook a smaller chicken in an air fryer:

Firstly, it's important to ensure that your air fryer is large enough to accommodate a whole chicken. Air fryer sizes can vary, so check that your chicken fits comfortably in the basket with a little space for air to circulate. If you have a smaller air fryer, opt for a smaller chicken.

Now, let's get into the cooking instructions:

• Preheat your air fryer to 180°C.
• Prepare your chicken by removing any string or giblets from the cavity.
• Create a spice mix by combining olive oil, smoked paprika, dried mixed herbs, garlic granules, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. You can adjust the spices according to your preference.
• Rub the spiced oil mixture all over the chicken, ensuring it's evenly coated.
• Place the chicken in the air fryer basket breast-side down.
• Cook the chicken for 30 minutes at 180°C.
• Carefully flip the chicken breast-side up using tongs.
• Continue cooking for an additional 15-20 minutes at the same temperature.
• To ensure doneness, check that the juices run clear when the thickest part of the chicken is pierced with a skewer or knife. Alternatively, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 74°C-75°C.
• Remove the chicken from the air fryer and allow it to rest for about 10 minutes before carving.

By following these steps and adjusting the cooking time based on the size of your chicken, you'll be able to roast a smaller chicken in your air fryer to juicy, tender perfection.

How long to cook for a larger chicken

The cooking time for a larger chicken in an air fryer will depend on the size of the chicken and the size of the air fryer. It's important to ensure that the chicken fits in the air fryer with a little space for air to circulate.

As a general rule, cooking a larger chicken in an air fryer will take longer than cooking a smaller chicken. For a whole chicken weighing around 2 kg, the cooking time is typically around 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes.

• Preheat the air fryer to 180°C.
• Prepare the chicken by removing any string and giblets from the cavity.
• Coat the chicken with oil. This will help to crisp up the skin. Make sure every nook and cranny is coated, as any part of the chicken that isn't oiled won't crisp up.
• Season the chicken with your desired spices and herbs. You can use a mix of dried mixed herbs, garlic salt or granules, paprika, and black pepper.
• Place the chicken in the air fryer basket breast side down.
• Cook the chicken for 45 minutes. Check on it once or twice during this time to ensure it is cooking properly and not burning.
• After 45 minutes, turn the chicken over so that it is breast side up.
• Cook the chicken for an additional 15-20 minutes.
• Check the chicken to ensure it is cooked through. You can pierce it with a sharp knife to see if the juices run clear, or use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. If it isn't cooked through, return it to the air fryer and cook for a few more minutes, checking on it regularly.
• Remove the chicken from the air fryer and allow it to rest for 10 minutes before carving.

How to tell when the chicken is cooked

There are a few ways to tell if your chicken is cooked when using an air fryer. Firstly, you can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. The chicken is cooked when the internal temperature reaches 74-75°C/165°F. Alternatively, you can pierce the thickest part of the chicken with a skewer, knife, or sharp knife. If the juices run clear, the chicken is cooked. If the juices are pink or red, the chicken needs more time to cook.

It is important to note that different air fryer models may produce different results, so it is always a good idea to check the chicken's internal temperature or pierce it to check the juices before serving.

Additionally, it is recommended to let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes after removing it from the air fryer. This allows the juices to absorb back into the meat, ensuring a juicy and tender final product.

What to serve with air fryer chicken

Air fryer roast chicken is a quick and easy meal to make, and it goes well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas for what to serve with your air fryer chicken:

Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary

Potatoes are a classic side dish, and for good reason. They are versatile, flavorful, and can be prepared in a variety of ways. To make crispy roast potatoes with rosemary, simply cut the potatoes into wedges or cubes, toss them with olive oil, fresh rosemary, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper, and roast them in the oven until golden brown and crispy.

Green Lemon Potatoes

For a more unique take on potatoes, try making green lemon potatoes. Boil potatoes until they are fork-tender, then mash them with olive oil, lemon juice, and zest, and fresh herbs such as parsley or chives. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve alongside your air fryer chicken for a bright and flavorful dish.

Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Brussels sprouts are another vegetable that can be transformed into a delicious side dish with a crispy texture. Cut the sprouts in half and toss them with olive oil, bacon bits, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Roast them in the oven until they are crispy and caramelized, and then serve them alongside your chicken for a savory and satisfying meal.

Roasted Potatoes and Carrots

A classic combination, roasted potatoes and carrots are a simple yet delicious side dish that pairs well with chicken. Cut the potatoes and carrots into similar-sized pieces, toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in the oven until tender and golden brown.

Salad

A fresh and healthy option, a salad can be a great way to round out your meal. Try a simple green salad with a variety of leafy greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite dressing. Or, for something more substantial, add in some avocado, chicken, or bacon for a heartier meal.

Pasta

Pasta is a filling and versatile dish that can be tailored to your taste. Try a veggie pasta dish with Brussels sprouts or spinach, or go for a more classic option like chicken Alfredo or spaghetti. You can also experiment with different types of pasta, such as penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti, to find your favorite.

Pizza

Pizza is always a crowd-pleaser, and it can be a fun way to switch up your meal. Try a classic cheese or pepperoni pizza, or get creative with your toppings. If you're feeling adventurous, you could even make a chicken pizza using your air fryer chicken as the topping.

Stir Fry

A stir fry is a great way to incorporate a variety of vegetables and proteins into your meal. Try a vegetable Lo Mein with chicken, or experiment with different sauces and ingredients to find your favorite combination. Stir-fries are typically cooked over high heat, so they can be a quick and easy weeknight meal.

Sandwiches or Wraps

Chicken sandwiches or wraps are a classic option for a reason—they're delicious and easy to make. Simply slice up your air fryer chicken and serve it on a bun or wrap with your favorite toppings and condiments. You can also add some lettuce, tomato, or avocado for a more filling meal.

Frequently asked questions