Description

This Air Fryer Fried Chicken has all the crunch and flavor of classic fried chicken—without the deep fryer! Juicy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and seasoned to perfection, it’s a healthier, easier way to enjoy a comfort food favorite.

Ingredients

2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, or breasts)
1 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for marinade)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornmeal or breadcrumbs (optional for extra crunch)
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Olive oil spray or cooking spray

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Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, mix buttermilk and hot sauce. Add chicken pieces, cover, and marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour or overnight for best flavor.
Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat while you prep the coating.
Make the Coating: In a shallow bowl, mix flour, cornmeal (if using), salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper.
Dredge the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing to coat well.
Spray for Crispiness: Lightly spray each coated piece with olive oil spray on all sides.
Air Fry: Place chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Cook for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until chicken is golden brown and internal temp hits 165°F (74°C).

Rest & Serve: Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy hot and crispy!

Notes

No buttermilk? Use 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice.

Want extra crunch? Double-dip: dredge in flour → dip back in buttermilk → dredge again.

Works with boneless chicken too—just reduce cook time to 15–18 minutes.