Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Like KFC Recipe

If you’ve ever craved the iconic crunch and juicy goodness of KFC chicken but wanted a healthier and quicker option, you’re in for a treat. This Air Fryer Chicken Like KFC recipe brings that legendary crispy coating and tender meat right into your kitchen, with less oil and zero mess. Using simple ingredients and an air fryer, you’ll discover the secret to perfect Air Fryer Chicken Like KFC—crispy, juicy, and easy to make at home in minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Crunch: Air frying uses less oil but delivers the same satisfying crisp you expect from KFC.
• Quick and Easy: Prepping and cooking take less time compared to deep frying, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The seasoning blend is carefully balanced to mimic that classic KFC taste without complexity.
• Less Mess: No splattering oil or heavy cleanup, so you can focus on enjoying your meal.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust spices and coating thickness to suit your preferences and diet.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Air Fryer Chicken Like KFC lies in a handful of simple, kitchen-friendly ingredients that deliver maximum flavor, crunch, and juiciness. Each element plays a crucial role, from the seasoning that spices up the crust to the buttermilk that tenderizes the chicken.

• Chicken Pieces: Use bone-in, skin-on thighs or drumsticks for the best texture and flavor retention.
• Buttermilk: Acts as a tenderizer and helps the coating stick better.
• All-Purpose Flour: The key to that crispy outer layer, creating structure for the breading.
• Seasoning Blend: A mixture of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne for heat.
• Baking Powder: Adds extra crunch to the coating by promoting browning and crispiness.
• Cooking Spray: Helps the chicken get toasty brown and crispy without drowning in oil.

Variations for Air Fryer Chicken Like KFC

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so don’t hesitate to tweak it to fit your dietary needs, available ingredients, or flavor cravings. Whether you want a spicier kick or a gluten-free option, it’s easy to make it your own.

• Spicy Twist: Add extra cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the buttermilk for a fiery finish.
• Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend for a safe alternative.
• Herb Infusion: Incorporate dried thyme, rosemary, or oregano into the seasoning for a fresh herbal note.
• Crispier Coating: Double-dip the chicken in flour and buttermilk for extra crunch.
• Different Cuts: Use chicken wings or breasts, adjusting cooking time accordingly.

How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Like KFC

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Start by soaking your chicken pieces in buttermilk mixed with half of your seasoning blend. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to tenderize and infuse flavor deeply.

Step 2: Create the Coating

In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and the remaining seasoning mix. This mixture is the secret behind that perfect golden and crispy coating reminiscent of classic KFC chicken.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off, then dredge each piece thoroughly in the dry mix. Press the coating firmly onto the chicken to ensure it sticks well.

Step 4: Preheat and Prepare the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking and boost crispiness.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Arrange the coated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray, then air fry for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the coating is crispy.

Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Chicken Like KFC

• Use Bone-In Chicken: Keeps the meat juicy and tender during air frying.
• Don’t Skip the Buttermilk: It tenderizes and helps the breading stick like a charm.
• Spray Generously: Light application of cooking spray enhances that golden, crunchy finish.
• Flip Carefully: Turn the chicken halfway through to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to avoid drying out the chicken while ensuring safety.

How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Like KFC

Garnishes

Fresh parsley or chopped chives add a pop of color and subtle brightness that complements the rich, crispy chicken.

Side Dishes

Classic coleslaw, buttery mashed potatoes, or crispy air fryer fries perfectly round out this dish, creating a meal that delights every sense.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Air Fryer Chicken Like KFC in a rustic basket lined with parchment paper or alongside a mini pickles stack for that authentic diner feel.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; the coating will remain mostly crispy if stored properly.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze cooked chicken pieces wrapped in foil or parchment and placed in freezer bags for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness without drying out the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs or drumsticks?

Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time since breasts cook faster and can dry out if overcooked—monitor closely with a thermometer.

Is it necessary to use buttermilk?

Buttermilk is ideal for tenderizing and flavor, but you can substitute with plain yogurt or milk mixed with a splash of lemon juice if needed.

How do I get the coating to stick better?

Marinating in buttermilk and firmly pressing the flour mixture onto the chicken helps create a stable, crispy coating that sticks well.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, using gluten-free flour or almond flour in place of all-purpose flour works well, though texture may vary slightly.

What air fryer settings work best?

Air frying at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes with a flip halfway through strikes the perfect balance between a crispy crust and juicy meat.

Final Thoughts

Getting that perfect Air Fryer Chicken Like KFC at home might just become your new favorite easy meal routine. It’s delicious, healthier, and so rewarding to make yourself. Don’t hesitate—grab your ingredients and air fryer, and enjoy homemade crispy chicken that rivals your favorite takeout in just minutes!

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