Crispy Air Fryer Fried Chicken Recipe

Nothing makes my kitchen smell better than a batch of hot, crispy fried chicken. The first time I tried making Air Fryer Fried Chicken, I was skeptical. Could it really get that deep golden crunch without a pot of oil? Spoiler: yes, it can! The air fryer works magic, giving you the flavor and texture of classic fried chicken with much less mess. It’s become a family favorite, right up there with my weekend pasta nights like lemon garlic pasta. If you love easy comfort food, don’t miss my Air Fryer Recipes collection for more ideas.

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What You’ll Need

The ingredients are simple, and you probably already have most of them in your pantry. Here’s what I use when making this recipe at home:

• Chicken pieces — thighs, drumsticks, or breasts, bone-in works great.
• Buttermilk — for marinating, it tenderizes and adds flavor.
• Flour — the base for that crispy coating.
• Spices — paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper (I sometimes sneak in cayenne for a kick).
• Eggs — help bind the coating.
• Cooking spray — keeps the crust golden without deep-frying.
• Air fryer — a must, of course!

I’ve found that buttermilk makes the chicken extra juicy, so don’t skip that step. It’s the same trick I use when prepping for casseroles like my slow cooker ravioli lasagna.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Air Fryer Fried Chicken

This recipe has a few steps, but trust me, each one is worth it. Once you try it, you’ll never go back to stovetop frying.

Step 1 — Marinate the Chicken

Soak your chicken pieces in buttermilk and spices for at least 1 hour (overnight is even better). This keeps the chicken juicy inside. I usually toss it together in the morning and it’s ready to fry by dinner.

Step 2 — Prepare the Coating

In one bowl, mix flour and seasonings. In another, beat eggs. Dip each piece of chicken first in the flour, then egg, then back in the flour. I press the flour onto the chicken to really make that crust stick.

Step 3 — Arrange in Air Fryer Basket

Spray the basket lightly with cooking spray. Place chicken pieces in a single layer, leaving a little room between them. Don’t overcrowd — that’s the secret to crispy air fryer results. It’s the same trick I use when baking cheesecakes in the Instant Pot, like my Instant Pot Cheesecake recipes.

Step 4 — Air Fry Until Crispy

Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway. Give each side a light spray of oil when flipping. You’ll know they’re ready when the crust is golden brown and the internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).

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Pro Tips & Easy Swaps

• Marinate overnight for maximum flavor.
• Use bone-in chicken thighs for the juiciest result.
• Swap buttermilk for plain yogurt + milk if needed.
• Add cayenne or chili powder if you like it spicy.
• Gluten-free? Use almond flour or a GF flour mix.
• Don’t stack the chicken — cook in batches.
• Always preheat your air fryer for the best crunch.
• A quick spritz of oil spray boosts golden color.

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Serving Ideas & Variations

Air fryer fried chicken is so versatile — I serve it with everything from mashed potatoes to fresh green salads. Here are some fun twists:

• Toss with hot sauce for Nashville-style heat.
• Serve with biscuits and honey butter.
• Pair with coleslaw for a picnic vibe.
• Make mini chicken sliders with buns and pickles.
• Slice leftovers for wraps or salads.
• Try with mac and cheese for ultimate comfort food.
• Use drumsticks for kid-friendly finger food nights.

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Common Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)

• Overcrowding the basket → Cook in batches for crispy results.
• Skipping the oil spray → Light oil helps the coating crisp up.
• Not preheating the air fryer → Cold baskets = soggy chicken.
• Flour falling off → Press the coating firmly onto chicken pieces.
• Undercooked meat → Always check internal temp hits 165°F.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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You’ll Also Love

If you love this crispy chicken, try these other air fryer favorites:

• Air Fryer Pork Chops — juicy inside, golden outside.
• Air Fryer Baked Potatoes — fluffy and perfectly crisp skin.
• Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries — a healthy, crunchy side dish.

For more tasty ideas, check out my full Air Fryer Recipes collection.