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Air Fryer KFC Style Chicken

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Air Fryer KFC Style Chicken

Description

Craving the crispy, juicy taste of classic fried chicken without deep frying? This Air Fryer KFC Style Chicken delivers everything you love about your favorite takeout with less oil and less mess. Each drumstick is soaked in a flavorful buttermilk marinade that keeps the meat incredibly tender while helping the seasoned coating stick perfectly. The crispy crust is packed with savory herbs and spices, creating a delicious golden exterior that crunches with every bite.

Using an air fryer means you can enjoy the texture of fried chicken while using only a light spray of oil. The result is juicy chicken on the inside and beautifully crisp chicken on the outside. This recipe is simple enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough to serve at family gatherings, game nights, or weekend lunches.

The secret to achieving that classic crispy coating is allowing the breaded chicken to rest before cooking. This helps the coating adhere better and creates a more even, crunchy finish. Pair this chicken with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, biscuits, fries, corn on the cob, or a fresh salad for a complete meal everyone will love.

Whether you’re cooking for kids or adults, this Air Fryer KFC Style Chicken is guaranteed to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 8 chicken drumsticks
  • 2 cups buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

For the Coating

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon mustard powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder

For Cooking

  • Olive oil cooking spray

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. Place them in a large bowl or zip-top bag with the buttermilk, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until every drumstick is coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best flavor and tenderness.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In a large shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, black pepper, salt, cayenne pepper, mustard powder, and baking powder until evenly combined.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Remove each drumstick from the buttermilk, allowing the excess marinade to drip off. Press each piece firmly into the seasoned flour mixture until completely coated. For an extra crispy crust, dip the chicken back into the buttermilk, then coat it in the flour mixture a second time.

Step 4: Rest the Chicken

Place the coated drumsticks on a wire rack and let them rest for 15–20 minutes. This helps the coating stick to the chicken during cooking and creates a crispier crust.

Step 5: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes.

Step 6: Air Fry

Arrange the chicken in a single layer inside the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Lightly spray all sides with olive oil cooking spray.

Cook for 12 minutes, then carefully flip each drumstick. Spray again lightly with oil and continue cooking for another 10–14 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the coating is crispy and golden brown.

If needed, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Step 7: Rest Before Serving

Transfer the cooked chicken to a wire rack and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.

Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Tips

  • Marinate overnight for maximum flavor.
  • Double-coating creates an extra crunchy crust.
  • Always preheat the air fryer.
  • Avoid stacking the chicken in the basket.
  • Spray lightly with oil for an evenly browned coating.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F.

Serving Suggestions

This crispy chicken pairs perfectly with:

  • Creamy mashed potatoes
  • Coleslaw
  • Macaroni and cheese
  • Corn on the cob
  • French fries
  • Biscuits
  • Potato wedges
  • Garden salad
  • Honey mustard
  • Ranch dressing
  • Barbecue sauce

Storage

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, place the chicken in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 4–6 minutes until hot and crispy again.

Freeze cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs or wings?

Yes. Simply adjust the cooking time depending on the size of the pieces.

Can I make it spicy?

Absolutely! Increase the cayenne pepper or add a little hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade.

Why isn’t my chicken crispy?

Overcrowding the basket or skipping the oil spray can reduce crispiness. Cook in batches for the best results.

Can I prepare it ahead?

Yes. Bread the chicken a few hours ahead and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook.

Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving – 2 Drumsticks)

  • Calories: 390
  • Protein: 32g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 640mg

This Air Fryer KFC Style Chicken delivers all the flavor and crunch of traditional fried chicken with a lighter cooking method. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with bold seasoning, it’s an easy homemade recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.

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