This Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken is golden, crispy, and perfectly seasoned. The buttermilk soak ensures the chicken stays juicy and tender on the inside, while the air fryer gives it a crispy, crunchy exterior without the excess oil.
Not only is this recipe quick and easy, but it’s also a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. You can enjoy all the flavor with less fat and fewer calories, making it perfect for a delicious family meal or casual gathering. Pair it with your favorite side dishes for a complete, satisfying meal!
Full Recipe:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Olive oil spray for coating
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine buttermilk and hot sauce. Add chicken thighs, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Remove chicken from the buttermilk mixture and dredge in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the coating to the chicken.
- Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Place the coated chicken thighs in the basket, making sure not to overcrowd them.
- Spray the tops of the chicken thighs with more olive oil spray.
- Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction to Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken combines the rich, indulgent flavor of classic fried chicken with the healthier benefits of air frying. By using an air fryer, you can achieve the crispy texture of deep-fried chicken without the excessive oil. This recipe is perfect for those looking to enjoy fried chicken in a lighter, faster, and more convenient way. With just a few simple ingredients and a few steps, you can make a mouth-watering, crispy fried chicken that is tender on the inside and perfectly seasoned on the outside. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting a gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
Why Buttermilk?
Buttermilk has long been a secret weapon in making fried chicken moist and tender. When chicken is marinated in buttermilk, the acidity of the buttermilk helps break down the protein in the chicken, resulting in a much juicier and more tender piece of meat. The buttermilk also helps the flour and seasoning adhere better, creating a beautiful crust. Additionally, the tanginess of buttermilk adds a subtle, rich flavor that makes each bite irresistible. For the air fryer version, marinating the chicken thighs in buttermilk not only enhances tenderness but also contributes to that desired golden crispy texture.
The Air Fryer Advantage
The air fryer has revolutionized home cooking, especially for dishes like fried chicken. Traditional deep-frying requires large amounts of oil, making it a greasy and messy process. Air frying, however, uses a fraction of the oil, producing crispy and golden-brown food with much less fat. The air fryer circulates hot air around the food, creating a crispy exterior while locking in moisture and tenderness. The result? A healthier version of your favorite fried dishes that still delivers the same satisfying crunch and flavor.
One of the greatest advantages of cooking with an air fryer is its speed. Unlike traditional frying methods, which can take a significant amount of time, the air fryer cooks food in a fraction of the time. With this recipe, the chicken is cooked to perfection in just 25 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or when you don’t have the time to spend in the kitchen.
Steps for Success
The key to making perfect Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken lies in the preparation process. Marinating the chicken in buttermilk for several hours (or overnight) ensures that the chicken is infused with flavor and achieves that tender texture. Once the chicken has marinated, it’s time to coat it in seasoned flour and panko bread crumbs, which create the signature crispy coating. A light spray of cooking spray on both the chicken and the air fryer basket is essential for achieving that perfect golden color and crunch without adding excess oil.
As you cook the chicken in the air fryer, it’s important to make sure that the pieces aren’t overcrowded. Overcrowding the basket can cause uneven cooking, so it’s best to cook the chicken in batches. This method guarantees that each piece gets enough airflow for an even, crispy finish. Flipping the chicken halfway through cooking ensures that both sides become evenly golden and crispy. For the best results, always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How to Serve Your Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken
This crispy, juicy fried chicken is versatile and can be paired with a variety of side dishes. Serve it with classic comfort foods such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread for a traditional Southern meal. Alternatively, you can pair it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a lighter, healthier option. The chicken also works wonderfully in sandwiches or wraps for a fun twist on a chicken burger. No matter how you choose to serve it, this fried chicken is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Tips for the Best Fried Chicken
- Don’t Rush the Marination: The longer the chicken marinates in buttermilk, the more tender and flavorful it becomes. Ideally, marinate the chicken for 4 hours or overnight for the best results.
- Use Panko Bread Crumbs: Panko bread crumbs give the chicken an extra-crispy texture. If you can’t find panko, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but panko will give the best result.
- Adjust Seasonings to Your Taste: The seasonings in the flour mixture can be adjusted based on your personal preferences. Feel free to add more spices such as cayenne pepper, paprika, or garlic powder for extra flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Make sure to cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. This ensures that each piece cooks evenly and crisps up nicely.
Healthier Fried Chicken
One of the most significant advantages of cooking fried chicken in an air fryer is the reduction in oil usage. Traditional frying methods require submerging the chicken in hot oil, which adds extra calories and fat. The air fryer uses hot air to cook the chicken, allowing you to achieve that crispy exterior without the excessive oil. For those looking to cut back on fat and calories, this air fryer version of buttermilk fried chicken is the perfect option. Additionally, by using less oil, you’re reducing the mess and cleanup time, making this recipe ideal for a stress-free meal.
Why You Should Try Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken
This recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves fried chicken but wants a healthier, more convenient version. It delivers on both flavor and texture, with a crispy, golden crust and juicy meat inside. The air fryer makes the cooking process faster and more efficient, while the buttermilk marinade ensures the chicken stays tender and flavorful. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing a meal for a group of friends, Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken is sure to impress. It’s easy to make, requires minimal cleanup, and delivers a healthier version of everyone’s favorite fried dish.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken is a game-changer for anyone who loves crispy fried chicken but is looking for a healthier alternative. The buttermilk marinade ensures the chicken is tender and flavorful, while the air fryer gives the chicken a perfectly crisp texture without the added oil. With simple ingredients, easy steps, and the convenience of the air fryer, this recipe is a winner for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a party, or simply indulging in a delicious meal, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.