Air Fryer 360: Perfectly Cooked Rotisserie Chicken In 30 Minutes

Rotisserie chicken is a delicious and easy meal, and cooking it in an air fryer 360 is a convenient way to enjoy a crispy, flavorful bird. This method allows you to achieve a perfectly cooked chicken with a golden, crispy skin while retaining its juicy, tender meat. By using the air fryer's 360-degree cooking technology, you can ensure even heat distribution, resulting in a well-cooked chicken from every angle. This guide will provide a step-by-step process to help you master the art of cooking rotisserie chicken in your air fryer 360, ensuring a mouth-watering, restaurant-quality meal.

Prepare Chicken: Pat dry, trim excess fat, and season

Before you begin cooking your rotisserie chicken in the air fryer 360, it's important to prepare the chicken properly to ensure a delicious and juicy result. Start by patting the chicken dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps the chicken cook evenly and prevents it from becoming greasy. Remove any excess fat or skin that might be hanging over the chicken, especially if you're using a whole chicken. This will not only make the cooking process easier but also ensure that the chicken doesn't become overly oily during the cooking time.

Seasoning is key to enhancing the flavor of your chicken. You can use a simple blend of salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs. For a classic rotisserie chicken flavor, a mixture of salt, pepper, and dried thyme or rosemary works well. Rub the seasoning generously all over the chicken, making sure to coat the skin and the meat. If you're using a chicken that has a lot of fat or skin, consider trimming it further to allow better seasoning penetration and even cooking.

For an extra crispy and flavorful skin, you can also baste the chicken with a small amount of oil before cooking. Use a brush to apply the oil to the skin, being careful not to overdo it. This simple step can make a big difference in the texture and taste of the chicken's skin. Remember, the goal is to create a crispy, golden exterior while keeping the meat tender and juicy.

Once the chicken is prepared and seasoned, you're ready to move on to the cooking process. Preheat your air fryer 360 to the appropriate temperature, typically around 375°F to 400°F. Place the chicken in the air fryer basket, ensuring it fits comfortably. If using a rotisserie attachment, follow the manufacturer's instructions for placement. Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, which is the recommended safe temperature for poultry.

Preheat Air Fryer: Set temperature to 360°F for 5 minutes

To begin cooking your rotisserie chicken in the Air Fryer 360, it's crucial to preheat the appliance to ensure optimal results. Start by setting the temperature to 360°F (175°C) and allowing the air fryer to heat up for approximately 5 minutes. This initial step is often overlooked but is essential for achieving perfectly cooked chicken. Preheating ensures that the hot air circulates evenly around the chicken, promoting even browning and cooking.

While the air fryer preheats, prepare your chicken by placing it on a rotisserie rack or a small roasting pan that fits inside the air fryer basket. This setup allows the chicken to rotate during cooking, resulting in a more uniform cook. Season the chicken with your preferred spices and herbs; a simple rub of salt, pepper, and garlic powder can enhance the flavor. Alternatively, you can marinate the chicken beforehand for a more intense taste.

Once the air fryer is preheated, carefully place the seasoned chicken inside. Ensure it is positioned in the center of the basket to allow for even cooking. Close the air fryer lid and set the timer for approximately 20-25 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken. The cooking time may vary, so it's important to keep an eye on the chicken to avoid overcooking.

During the cooking process, the air fryer's fan will circulate hot air around the chicken, creating a crispy exterior and juicy interior. The rotisserie mechanism will also ensure that the chicken cooks evenly from all sides. Once the timer goes off, carefully remove the chicken and check for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh. The internal temperature should read 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute. This simple preheating step and the use of the rotisserie feature in the Air Fryer 360 will result in a delicious, perfectly cooked rotisserie chicken with a crispy skin and tender meat.

Place Chicken: Put chicken on a rack in the air fryer basket

When preparing to cook a rotisserie chicken in your Air Fryer 360, it's important to set up the cooking basket properly to ensure even cooking and a delicious, juicy bird. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to place the chicken on the rack:

Start by preheating your Air Fryer 360 to the desired temperature. This appliance often has pre-set cooking programs for various dishes, so you can select the appropriate temperature and time for your chicken. While the fryer heats up, prepare the chicken. Remove the giblets from the chicken cavity if present, as they are not needed for cooking. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels; this step is crucial as it helps the skin crisp up beautifully.

Now, it's time to get the chicken ready for the air fryer. Place the chicken on a metal or wire rack that fits inside the air fryer basket. The rack is essential to allow hot air to circulate around the bird, ensuring even cooking. You can either use a store-bought rotisserie chicken rack or create your own by folding a piece of aluminum foil into a rack shape. Make sure the chicken is positioned so that the legs are hanging over the edge of the basket, allowing the juices to drip away from the cooking area.

Secure the rack in the center of the air fryer basket. Some air fryers may have a specific rack or a divider to keep the chicken in place. If your model has this feature, use it to ensure the chicken doesn't move during cooking. If not, you can gently press the chicken onto the rack to keep it stable.

At this point, you might want to add some flavor to the chicken. You can baste the bird with your favorite marinade or a simple mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Alternatively, you can simply sprinkle some salt and pepper over the chicken for a basic, yet tasty, flavor profile.

Once the chicken is placed on the rack and seasoned, you're ready to cook. Close the air fryer lid and set the timer according to your desired doneness. Remember, cooking times may vary depending on the size of the chicken and your air fryer's power, so keep an eye on it to ensure it reaches your preferred level of doneness.

Cook: Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until cooked through

To cook a rotisserie chicken in an Air Fryer 360, follow these steps for a delicious and crispy result:

Preparation: Start by preheating your Air Fryer 360 to the appropriate temperature, typically around 375°F (190°C). Prepare the chicken by removing it from the rotisserie and trimming any excess fat. Season the chicken with your choice of spices or herbs. For a basic flavor, you can rub it with garlic, salt, and pepper. Alternatively, you can marinate the chicken beforehand for enhanced taste.

Cooking Process: Place the chicken in the air fryer basket, ensuring it fits snugly. If using a rack, place the chicken on it to allow hot air circulation. Close the lid and set the timer for 20-25 minutes. It's important to flip the chicken halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning. Use tongs or a spatula to carefully turn the chicken over.

During the cooking process, the air fryer's hot air circulation will help crisp up the skin and cook the chicken thoroughly. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the size of the chicken and your air fryer's power, so it's essential to keep an eye on it. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh to ensure it's cooked safely.

Serving Suggestion: Once the chicken is cooked to your desired level, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat juicier. Finally, carve the chicken and serve it with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Remember, cooking times may vary, so always check the internal temperature to guarantee the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat. Enjoy your homemade rotisserie chicken with the convenience of an air fryer!

Rest and Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes before carving

Once your chicken is cooked to perfection in the air fryer 360, it's important to let it rest for a few minutes before carving. This step is often overlooked but is crucial for a delicious and juicy meal. Here's why and how to do it:

Resting allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring that every bite is moist and flavorful. When you cut into the chicken immediately after cooking, you risk losing those precious juices, resulting in a dry and less appealing dish. By letting it rest, you're essentially giving the chicken a chance to 're-absorb' its own juices, creating a more tender and succulent texture.

The recommended resting time is 5 minutes. During this time, cover the cooked chicken loosely with aluminum foil or a clean kitchen towel. This simple step helps to retain moisture and keeps the chicken warm while it rests. You can also use this time to prepare any side dishes or finish cooking any remaining vegetables.

While the chicken rests, it's a good opportunity to plate your meal. Carve the chicken into thin slices, ensuring you get a good mix of meat and crispy skin. Arrange the slices on a serving platter, and consider garnishing with fresh herbs or a drizzle of your favorite sauce. This presentation will make your dish more appealing and enticing.

Remember, the resting process is an essential step in the cooking journey, transforming a good meal into an exceptional one. It's a simple technique that every home cook should master, ensuring that your rotisserie chicken is not only cooked to perfection but also served at its very best. Enjoy the delicious results of your hard work!

Frequently asked questions