Air-Fryer Chicken: Perfectly Rotisseried In Under 40 Minutes

Cooking a rotisserie chicken in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get a juicy, flavourful chicken with a crispy skin. The cooking time depends on the size of the chicken and the type of air fryer, but it generally takes between 40 minutes and 1 hour to cook a whole chicken in an air fryer.

Choosing the right chicken size

Firstly, it's important to consider the size of your air fryer. If you have a smaller air fryer, you'll need to choose a smaller chicken. As a general rule, a standard to large-sized air fryer (4 to 7 litres) can accommodate a chicken up to 4.5 pounds or 2 kilos. If you have a smaller air fryer (around 3 to 4 litres), opt for a chicken that's 3 to 4 pounds. It's also worth noting that organic chickens tend to be smaller, usually around 4 pounds.

When selecting a chicken, look for a small to medium-sized bird. A chicken that is too large may not fit properly in your air fryer, leading to uneven cooking and dry meat. Aim for a chicken that is between 3 and 4.5 pounds, or even slightly smaller if you have a very compact air fryer. Remember, it's better to err on the side of a smaller chicken than a larger one.

Another factor to consider is the wattage and model of your air fryer. Different air fryers may have varying cooking times, so it's a good idea to consult the manufacturer's instructions or a similar recipe to get an estimate of the cooking time. This will help you choose a chicken that is the right size for your specific air fryer.

In addition to the size of the chicken, you may also want to consider the number of people you are serving. If you are cooking for a larger group, you may need a bigger chicken. However, keep in mind that a larger chicken will also require a longer cooking time.

Lastly, don't be afraid to ask your butcher for help. They can advise you on the appropriate chicken size based on your air fryer and the number of servings you need. They can also provide guidance on cooking times and techniques to ensure your rotisserie chicken turns out perfectly.

Preparing the chicken

Firstly, you'll want to select a chicken that is the right size for your air fryer. Most recipes recommend a chicken weighing between 3 and 5 pounds (1.3 to 2.3 kg). If your air fryer is on the smaller side (around 3 to 4 quarts), opt for a chicken at the lower end of this weight range.

Once you have your chicken, remove any giblets, and pat the chicken dry with paper towels. You may also want to tuck the wings under the bird to ensure even cooking.

Next, it's time to make your spice rub. Most recipes suggest a combination of dried herbs and spices, such as paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. You can also add other spices like cayenne pepper, oregano, marjoram, rosemary, or ground cinnamon for extra flavour. Mix your chosen spices in a small bowl, and then add some olive oil (around 2-3 tablespoons) to create a paste. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice to the rub for extra zing.

Now it's time to apply the rub to your chicken. Use a basting brush to coat the breast side of the chicken with about half of your spice paste. Then, pick up the chicken by the legs and place it breast-side down in the air fryer basket. Use the basting brush to coat the rest of the chicken with the remaining rub.

At this point, you can also tie the legs of the chicken together with kitchen twine for a prettier presentation when serving.

If your air fryer has a rotisserie function, secure the chicken on the spit, ensuring it can rotate freely, and place the spit in the air fryer with a drip tray underneath.

You're now ready to start cooking! The cooking time will depend on the size of your chicken and your air fryer, but most recipes suggest a total cooking time of around 50 minutes to 1 hour for a whole chicken. For a juicy, moist bird, it's important to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast or thigh. To check this, use a meat thermometer, being careful not to touch the bone.

Once your chicken is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes before carving and serving. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring your chicken is juicy and tender.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for rotisserie chicken in an air fryer depend on the size of the chicken and the air fryer model. It's important to note that air fryers vary in size, model, and wattage, so the cooking time may need to be adjusted accordingly. Here is a general guide:

• For a 3-pound/1.3-kilo chicken, cook for 35 to 45 minutes.
• For a 3.5-pound/1.5-kilo chicken, cook for 45 to 50 minutes.
• For a 4-pound chicken, cook for about an hour.
• For a 4.5-pound/2-kilo chicken, cook for 50 minutes to an hour.
• For a 5 to 6-pound chicken, cook for about an hour and 5 minutes.

It is recommended to cook the chicken breast side down for the first half of the cooking time and then flip it over to breast side up for the remaining time. This ensures even cooking and helps keep the breast meat juicy.

The ideal internal temperature for cooked chicken is 165°F (74°C). To check this, use a meat thermometer and insert it into the thickest part of the chicken, usually between the breast and thigh, without touching the bone.

It is worth noting that some recipes suggest a higher temperature of 400°F (200°C) for 40 minutes, but this may vary depending on the air fryer model and the size of the chicken.

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

Using a meat thermometer

If you're using a leave-in probe thermometer, place it in the thickest part of the chicken, preferably near the bone. For an instant-read thermometer, insert it into the thickest part of the chicken, which is usually the breast. Watch the temperature reading as you push the probe in—the temperature should keep dropping as the probe heads towards the deepest part of the meat. When it starts to rise again, you've gone too far. The minimum point is the temperature reading you should follow.

For a whole chicken, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). This temperature reading ensures that the chicken is cooked properly and is safe to eat.

Wireless thermometers, such as the MeatStick Chef, offer precise results and convenient monitoring through a mobile application. They allow you to monitor the internal temperature of the meat throughout the cooking process without opening the air fryer and losing heat. You can also set the desired temperature and receive alerts when it's reached.

Resting the chicken

The resting period is also a good time to make a simple gravy using the juices that have collected at the bottom of the air fryer. Simply skim off any fat and serve as a French-style 'jus'. Alternatively, pour the juices into a small saucepan and heat with cornflour and extra chicken stock (or instant gravy powder) for a more traditional gravy.

If you are cooking roast potatoes to go with your chicken, you can also use the resting time to make some truffle mashed potatoes or creamy Parmesan potatoes.

While your chicken rests, you can also prepare some sides. Some suggestions include:

• Salads, such as a Greek salad or beet salad with feta and walnuts
• Roasted vegetables, like broccoli or asparagus
• Green beans, either sautéed or stir-fried
• Rice, such as Greek lemon rice or rice with quinoa and extra veggies
• Pasta, like creamy pea pasta

Finally, the resting period is a good opportunity to carve the chicken. You can then serve it alongside your chosen sides and gravy.

Frequently asked questions