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Emma Lawson | 
08.02.2025

Air Fryer Fried Chicken: Crispy, Juicy, and Healthier Than Ever!

If you’re a fried chicken lover but crave a healthy, less-mess alternative, then air fryer fried chicken is your solution. Savor crunchy, golden-colored exterior, juicy tender chicken, and all the flavor—with no added oils and deep-frying hassle.

Prep Time

10m

Total Time

4m

Cook

8m

Yield

5 servs
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Halal

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USA

Essential Ingredients for Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Here’s everything you’ll need for crisp, golden results

  • 1.5 lbs (about 6 pieces) bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup cornstarch
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Olive oil spray (or any cooking spray)

Extra Add-Ins for Custom Flavor

  • Hot sauce in the marinade for a spicy kick
  • Pickle juice in the buttermilk for Nashville-style flavor
  • Fresh rosemary or thyme in the coating for herbal depth

Ingredient Prep Tip

Marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least 4 hours or overnight for maximum juiciness and flavor penetration.

Crispy Air Fryer Fried Chicken Method

Step-by-step instructions for foolproof crispy chicken in the air fryer.

  1. In a large bowl, marinate chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight).
  2. In a shallow dish, mix flour, cornstarch, and all spices until well combined.
  3. Remove chicken from buttermilk and dredge thoroughly in the flour mixture. Press the coating on firmly.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  5. Spray the basket and both sides of each chicken piece lightly with oil spray.
  6. Cook for 8 minutes, flip, then cook another 6-8 minutes until golden and internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).

Golden-Brown Pro Tips

  • Do not skip preheating — it helps crisp the coating instantly.
  • Always spray both sides with oil to achieve that classic fried texture.
  • Use cornstarch along with flour — it’s key to getting that ultra-light crunch.
  • Don’t overcrowd the basket; space = crisp.

Air Fryer Fried Chicken Nutrition

Calories: ~280 per piece | Protein: 24g | Carbs: 10g | Fat: 14g

Best Ways to Serve Air Fryer Fried Chicken

  • Pair with coleslaw, potato wedges, or air fryer sweet potato fries
  • Serve on waffles with maple syrup for a Southern-style twist
  • Layer into a crispy chicken sandwich with lettuce and spicy mayo
  • Make a chicken salad bowl with ranch and crispy onions
  • Great cold for meal prep lunches!

Final Thoughts on This Crispy Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Whether it’s your first time trying air fryer fried chicken or you’re perfecting your go-to recipe, this version gives you all the crunch and comfort without the oil. Once you try it, you may never go back to deep frying.

Explore other Recipes below!

FAQ for Air Fryer Fried Chicken

🔥 Can I Use Boneless Chicken?

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Yes! Reduce the cooking time to 15-18 minutes for boneless chicken breasts or tenders.

🔥 Can I Make This Without Buttermilk?

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Yes, use a mix of milk + lemon juice/vinegar or plain yogurt as a substitute.

🔥 Why is My Chicken Not Crispy?

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  • You may have overcrowded the air fryer—cook in batches.
  • You may not have used enough oil spray—lightly mist for golden brown crispiness.
  • Your air fryer temperature may be too low—increase to 400°F for the last 3 minutes.

🔥 Can I Store & Reheat Air Fryer Fried Chicken?

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  • Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
  • Reheat: Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.