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Homemade The best air Fryer KFC fried chicken photo

The best air Fryer KFC fried chicken

This air fryer KFC fried chicken is a healthier twist on a classic! Crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor!
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Prep Time 2 hours
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:
  • 8 pieces free-range chicken thighs and drumsticks (bone and skin on)
  • 250 ml buttermilk
  • 1 piece free-range egg
  • 1 tbsp hot sauce (e.g., Cholula chipotle hot sauce)
For the Coating:
  • 2 cups flour
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 6 tsp dried herbs (thyme, sage, parsley, oregano, basil)
  • 1 tbsp celery salt
  • 1 tbsp fine white pepper powder (or a mix of black and white)
  • 2 tsp hot English mustard powder
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 2 tsp ground ginger
  • Sunflower or canola oil (for brushing/dabbing on the chicken)

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cooking brush

Method
 

Marinating and Coating:
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce. Whisk until well blended. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
  2. In another bowl, mix the flour, salt, dried herbs, celery salt, pepper, mustard powder, paprika, garlic powder, and ground ginger. Stir until the dry ingredients are well combined.
  3. Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. One piece at a time, allow the excess buttermilk to drip off, then dredge the chicken in the flour mixture. Press firmly to ensure a good coating. Place the coated chicken pieces on a plate or rack.
Cooking:
  1. Set your air fryer to preheat at 200°C (392°F) for about 5 minutes.
  2. Lightly brush or dab the coated chicken pieces with sunflower or canola oil. Place the chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
  3. Air fry the chicken at 200°C (392°F) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until it reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).
  4. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for about 5 minutes.

Notes

  • For a healthier option, consider using whole wheat flour.
  • Marinate overnight for the best flavor and tenderness.
  • Don't skip the oil brush for that crispy exterior!