Fried chicken is the ultimate comfort food—crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor. But traditional frying methods involve a lot of oil, which isn’t always the healthiest option. That’s where the air fryer comes in!
Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken delivers all the crispy goodness you love with a fraction of the oil. If you’re craving the taste of deep-fried chicken but want a healthier, mess-free alternative, this recipe is for you!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy without deep-frying: The air fryer creates a golden, crispy crust without the need for excessive oil.
Juicy and flavorful: The buttermilk marinade keeps the chicken moist and tender.
Healthier alternative: Enjoy fried chicken with less guilt and fewer calories.
Easy and mess-free: No need for a pot of hot oil or greasy splatters.
Perfect for meal prep: Make a batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Ingredients
For the Buttermilk Marinade:
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
4 drumsticks
2 cups buttermilk
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
For the Breading:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon baking powder (for a lighter crust)
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
Cooking spray or oil sprayer
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Add the chicken pieces to the bowl, making sure they are fully submerged in the buttermilk mixture.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for maximum tenderness and flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading
In a separate large bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, baking powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off.
Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
Place the coated chicken on a wire rack and let it rest for 10-15 minutes to help the breading adhere better.
Step 3: Air Fry the Chicken
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
Arrange the chicken in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the basket.
Spray the tops of the chicken pieces with cooking spray to help them crisp up.
Air fry for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
Remove from the air fryer and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Don’t skip the buttermilk marinade! It tenderizes the chicken and enhances the flavor.
Use cornstarch in the breading. It makes the coating extra crispy.
Preheat the air fryer. This ensures even cooking and crispiness.
Avoid overcrowding. Cook in batches if necessary so the air can circulate properly.
Spray the breading with oil. This helps achieve a golden-brown, crispy crust.
Let the chicken rest. Resting after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
FAQs About Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken
1. Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes! Boneless chicken thighs or breasts work well, but they cook faster. Reduce the cooking time to about 15-20 minutes and check for doneness at 165°F (75°C).
2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your seasonings are gluten-free.
3. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftover fried chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
4. Can I use a different marinade instead of buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can use a mixture of 1 cup milk and 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 10 minutes before using.
5. Why is my chicken not crispy?
If your chicken isn’t crispy, it could be due to overcrowding in the air fryer, not preheating the air fryer, or not spraying enough oil on the breading. Also, ensure your flour coating isn’t too thick.
6. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken overnight and coat it in the breading before air frying. Alternatively, cook the chicken and reheat it in the air fryer when ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your crispy air fryer buttermilk fried chicken with classic sides like:
Mashed potatoes with gravy
Coleslaw for a refreshing crunch
Cornbread for a Southern touch
Mac and cheese for a comforting side
Pickles or hot sauce for an extra kick
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken is the perfect way to enjoy crispy, flavorful fried chicken without the guilt of deep-frying. With a juicy interior and crunchy golden crust, this healthier version doesn’t compromise on taste. Whether for a family dinner, game night, or a weekend treat, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious, crispy chicken experience made easy with your air fryer!
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