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Crispy Buttermilk Air Fryer Chicken

Crispy Buttermilk Air Fryer Chicken for Guilt-Free Indulgence

This Crispy Buttermilk Air Fryer Chicken delivers fried chicken flavor without the guilt, perfect for a quick and healthy dinner.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Marinating Time 2 hours
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 4 pieces
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pounds Chicken Pieces thighs, drumsticks, or breasts
  • 1 cup Buttermilk or almond milk mixed with vinegar for dairy-free
For the Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder or fresh garlic for more kick
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder or shallots for a brighter flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika smoked paprika can deepen flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Salt adjust based on salt sensitivity
  • 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper or cayenne pepper for spiciness
For the Coating
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour or gluten-free flour
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Powder omit if not using flour
For Cooking
  • 1 spray or drizzle Cooking Spray or Olive Oil to achieve golden finish

Equipment

  • Air fryer

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Marinate the chicken by whisking together 1 cup of buttermilk, 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper in a large bowl. Add 2 pounds of chicken, ensuring full coverage, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 2-4 hours.
  2. Prepare the coating by combining 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of baking powder in a separate bowl.
  3. Preheat the air fryer at 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes.
  4. Coat the marinated chicken in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess.
  5. Arrange the coated chicken in a lightly sprayed air fryer basket in a single layer.
  6. Cook the chicken in the air fryer at 380°F (193°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  7. For extra crispiness, air fry for an additional 3-5 minutes.
  8. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to retain juiciness.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pieceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 30gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, marinate the chicken longer and ensure to preheat the air fryer properly.

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