Air Fryer Whole Chicken: Juicy, Crispy and No Oven Needed
Roasting a whole chicken doesn’t have to mean switching on the oven. This air fryer whole chicken recipe gives you golden skin, juicy meat, and zero fuss — perfect for any day of the week.
Prep Time
10m
Total Time
50m
Cook
60m
Yield
4 servings
Whole
Chicken
Ingredients for Air Fryer Whole Chicken
Simple spice mix, big flavour
1.2kg whole chicken (halal)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp dried thyme
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Flavour Boosters
1 lemon, halved and inserted into cavity
Fresh rosemary sprigs
Chili flakes
Dry the Skin
Pat the skin dry before rubbing in oil and spices — this helps you get that irresistible crispy finish.
How to Cook a Whole Chicken in the Air Fryer
Here’s how to make the juiciest, crispiest air fryer chicken without the oven.
Preheat air fryer to 180°C (355°F).
Pat chicken dry and rub with olive oil and spices.
Place breast-side down in basket and cook for 25 minutes.
Flip and cook another 25 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Let rest 5–10 minutes before carving.
Crispy Skin & Juicy Meat
Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking
Let the chicken rest to lock in juices
Roast with cavity filled with lemon or onion for added moisture
Final Thoughts on Cooking Whole Chicken in the Air Fryer
This air fryer whole chicken recipe gives you everything you want from a roast — crisp skin, tender meat, and rich flavour — without needing to turn on the oven. It’s ideal for Sunday dinner, meal prep, or impressing guests with minimal effort. You can change up the seasoning to suit your taste and pair it with any side. Once you see how easy and delicious it is, you’ll skip the oven from now on. Perfect for family meals or batch cooking, this one’s a weekly staple.
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