Crispy Chicken: Air Fryer Recipe For Aldi's Southern Fried Chicken

Looking to elevate your fried chicken game without the hassle of deep-frying? Look no further than your trusty air fryer! In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of cooking delicious, crispy Aldi Southern Fried Chicken in your air fryer. From preparing the chicken to achieving that perfect golden-brown crust, you'll be able to enjoy restaurant-quality fried chicken right in the comfort of your own home. Get ready to impress your taste buds with this easy and healthier twist on a classic favorite!

Prepare Ingredients: Gather chicken, buttermilk, flour, spices, and oil for the air fryer

To begin your cooking journey, you'll need to gather the essential ingredients for this delicious fried chicken recipe. Start by selecting the chicken; opt for a cut that is suitable for frying, such as chicken thighs or drumsticks. The meat should be fresh and of good quality to ensure the best results. Next, you'll require buttermilk, a key ingredient in this recipe, as it adds moisture and flavor to the chicken. You can use store-bought buttermilk or make your own by combining regular milk with a small amount of vinegar or lemon juice.

In addition to the chicken and buttermilk, you'll need to prepare your dry ingredients. Sift and measure out an equal amount of all-purpose flour and a blend of spices. The spices typically include salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, but feel free to adjust the quantities to your taste. These spices will give your chicken a flavorful crust.

For the oil, choose a high-smoke point oil like canola or vegetable oil. This type of oil will allow for a higher temperature during the frying process, ensuring a crispy exterior. Ensure you have enough oil to submerge the chicken pieces in the air fryer basket.

Before you start cooking, it's a good idea to prepare your workspace by laying out all the ingredients and equipment you'll need. This includes your air fryer, a bowl for the buttermilk, a plate or shallow dish for the flour mixture, and a clean work surface. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother and more efficient.

Marinate: Soak chicken in buttermilk overnight for tender, flavorful results

Marinating chicken in buttermilk is a simple yet effective technique to ensure a tender and flavorful dish. This process involves soaking the chicken in a mixture of buttermilk and a few other ingredients, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat and create a delicious, juicy texture. Here's a detailed guide on how to marinate chicken for the best results:

Start by preparing the marinade. In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, a pinch of salt, and a few cracks of black pepper. You can also add a teaspoon of garlic powder and a pinch of paprika for extra flavor. The buttermilk is key here; it helps to break down the chicken's proteins, making it more tender. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding some cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes. The marinade should have a slightly tangy and savory taste.

Once your marinade is ready, place the chicken pieces in a resealable bag or a large bowl. Ensure the chicken is fully coated with the buttermilk mixture. If using a bag, press out as much air as possible and seal it. For a larger batch, you can marinate the chicken in the refrigerator overnight, or for at least 4 hours if you have time. The longer the marination process, the more tender and flavorful the chicken will be.

After marinating, remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This step is important to ensure even cooking in the air fryer. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before cooking to remove excess moisture and help the chicken crisp up beautifully.

By marinating the chicken in buttermilk overnight, you're essentially giving the chicken a tenderizing and flavor-enhancing treatment. This method is a popular choice for fried chicken, as it results in a juicy, crispy exterior. Remember, the key to success is patience; allowing the chicken to marinate properly will yield the best fried chicken experience.

Seasoning: Mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, and salt for a crispy coating

To create a crispy and flavorful coating for your Aldi Southern Fried Chicken, a simple yet effective seasoning blend is key. Start by combining 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of paprika, 1 tablespoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt in a medium-sized mixing bowl. This combination of ingredients will provide a crispy texture and a delightful blend of spices.

The flour acts as the base, creating a sturdy foundation for the coating. Paprika adds a vibrant color and a subtle, earthy flavor, while garlic powder brings a punch of garlicky goodness. Salt enhances the overall taste and helps to bring out the natural flavors of the chicken.

You can adjust the quantities to suit your preference. For a spicier kick, add more garlic powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper. If you like a more robust flavor, consider adding a pinch of onion powder or a dash of dried thyme. This seasoning mix is versatile and can be used for various fried foods, not just chicken.

When using this seasoning, ensure that the chicken pieces are evenly coated. You can do this by placing the seasoned chicken in a plastic bag and shaking it gently to coat all sides. Alternatively, you can use your hands to pat the seasoning onto the chicken, ensuring an even layer.

This crispy coating will not only add a delightful texture to your fried chicken but also provide a beautiful golden-brown appearance. It's a simple yet powerful way to elevate your air-fried chicken to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Air Fry: Place seasoned chicken in the air fryer at 375°F for 12-15 minutes

To cook Aldi Southern Fried Chicken in an air fryer, you'll want to start by preparing the chicken. Begin by patting the chicken dry with paper towels; this step is crucial as it ensures a crispy exterior. Then, season the chicken generously with your preferred seasoning blend. A popular choice is a mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, but feel free to experiment with other spices and herbs to suit your taste.

Once the chicken is seasoned, it's time to preheat your air fryer. Set it to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to reach this temperature. This temperature is ideal for achieving a crispy, golden-brown exterior while keeping the chicken juicy and tender inside.

Now, it's time to arrange the chicken in the air fryer basket. Ensure the pieces are in a single layer, allowing hot air to circulate freely around each piece. If your air fryer has a rack, place it on the top shelf to promote even cooking. If not, you can simply stack the chicken pieces in the basket, ensuring they don't overlap.

Cook the chicken for approximately 12-15 minutes. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken pieces and your air fryer's power, so it's essential to keep an eye on them. Aim for a golden-brown color and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure the chicken is cooked through.

Finally, once the chicken is cooked, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to drain any excess oil. This step is important to maintain the crispiness. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Enjoy your crispy, delicious Southern Fried Chicken!

Finish: Baste with butter and serve with your favorite sides

Once your chicken is cooked to perfection, it's time to add the finishing touches and serve it up! Here's how to make your dish shine:

Basting with Butter: This simple step will elevate your fried chicken's flavor and texture. Start by melting a small amount of butter in a small saucepan over low heat. You can use unsalted butter for a more neutral taste, or opt for flavored butter like garlic or herb butter for an extra kick. Once melted, carefully baste the chicken pieces with the butter. You can use a brush or simply spoon the melted butter over the chicken, ensuring an even coating. This process adds a rich, buttery flavor and a golden, crispy finish to your fried chicken.

Serving Suggestions: Now, onto the fun part—customizing your meal! Fried chicken is incredibly versatile, and you can serve it in numerous ways. For a classic Southern-style presentation, serve the chicken with a side of creamy coleslaw and crispy potato wedges. Alternatively, go for a healthier option by pairing it with a fresh green salad and a tangy vinaigrette dressing. If you're feeling adventurous, try a unique twist like serving the chicken with a side of sweet potato fries and a spicy honey glaze. Don't forget to add a refreshing beverage, such as a cold glass of lemonade or a crisp beer, to complement the flavors.

You can also get creative with your dipping sauces. While traditional choices like ketchup or barbecue sauce are always a hit, feel free to experiment. Try a creamy ranch dressing, a spicy sriracha sauce, or even a sweet and tangy apple cider vinegar-based sauce. The possibilities are endless!

Remember, the key to a successful meal is presentation and pairing. Arrange the chicken and sides beautifully on a platter or serving dish, and don't be afraid to get creative with your plating. Serve the chicken while it's still nice and crispy, and enjoy the delicious results of your hard work!

Frequently asked questions