Absolutely! You can make crispy “KFC-style” chicken in the air fryer without deep-frying, and it comes out tender inside and crunchy outside. Here’s a reliable method:
Ingredients
- 4 chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, or wings)
- 1 cup buttermilk (or plain yogurt thinned with a little milk)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or substitute with gluten-free flour)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Cooking spray or a little oil
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken:
- Mix the chicken with buttermilk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
- Prepare the coating:
- In a shallow bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and a pinch of the same spices used in the marinade.
- Coat the chicken:
- Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off.
- Dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to coat well.
- Preheat air fryer:
- Preheat to 380°F (193°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- Air fry the chicken:
- Spray the basket lightly with cooking spray.
- Place chicken pieces in a single layer (do not overcrowd).
- Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Optional finishing touch:
- For extra crispiness, spray lightly with oil and air fry 2–3 more minutes.
✅ Tips:
- For a herbier crust, add dried thyme, oregano, or a pinch of MSG (optional) to the flour mixture.
- Serve with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or your favorite dipping sauce for the full KFC vibe.
If you like, I can give you a “secret spice blend” version that mimics KFC’s iconic flavor even more closely for the air fryer. That one’s a fun copycat!
Do you want me to share that recipe?