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Air Fryer Chicken Like KFC

Air Fryer Chicken Like KFC
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Enjoy a healthier, quick, and delicious alternative to classic KFC chicken with this Air Fryer Chicken Like KFC recipe. Featuring a crispy, golden coating and juicy meat, this air fryer method reduces oil usage and mess while delivering that beloved KFC flavor in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks

Marinade

  • 2 cups buttermilk
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

Coating

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour/almond flour for gluten-free)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1/2 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Other

  • Cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: Mix buttermilk with half of the seasoning blend (paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper). Submerge the chicken pieces in this mixture and marinate for at least 30 minutes to tenderize and infuse flavor.
  2. Create the Coating: In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and the remaining seasoning blend to create the crispy seasoning mix for the coating.
  3. Bread the Chicken: Remove each piece of chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Thoroughly dredge the chicken in the dry flour mixture, pressing the coating firmly to ensure it adheres well.
  4. Preheat and Prepare the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking and promote crispiness.
  5. Cook the Chicken: Arrange coated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd. Lightly spray the tops of the chicken with cooking spray. Air fry for 25-30 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through cooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and that the coating is golden and crispy.

Notes

  • Use bone-in, skin-on chicken for juicier meat and better flavor.
  • Buttermilk is key to tenderizing and helps the breading stick well.
  • Apply cooking spray generously for a golden, crunchy finish.
  • Flip the chicken carefully halfway through cooking to achieve even crispiness.
  • Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure safety without drying out the chicken.

Nutrition

Keywords: Air fryer chicken, Healthy fried chicken, KFC style chicken, Crispy chicken, Gluten free fried chicken

Find it online: https://mydishez.com/air-fryer-chicken-like-kfc/