Description
A crispy and juicy air fryer version of KFC’s famous fried chicken, seasoned with paprika, garlic, and a hint of cayenne.
Ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken (thighs or breasts), about 1.5–2 lb total
- 1 cup buttermilk (or substitute with 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (reduce or omit for milder flavor)
- Cooking spray or neutral oil in a mister
Instructions
- Marinate: Place chicken in a bowl or zip-top bag, pour in buttermilk to coat, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight.
- Mix dry coating: In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne.
- Preheat air fryer: Set to 400°F (200°C) and preheat for 3–5 minutes.
- Dredge: Remove chicken from buttermilk, letting excess drip off, and dredge each piece in the seasoned flour.
- Arrange and oil: Place chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer and lightly spray the tops with cooking spray.
- Cook: Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 20–28 minutes for breasts and 22–30 minutes for thighs, flipping once halfway through.
- Rest: Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For a gluten-free version, use 1:1 gluten-free flour or rice flour + 2 tbsp cornstarch. Optionally, add 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air frying
- Cuisine: American