Crispy Air Fryer KFC-Style Chicken Recipe
Forget the drive-thru—this homemade Air Fryer KFC-Style Chicken is crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with incredible flavor. With a perfectly seasoned coating and a healthier cooking method, you’ll get all the deliciousness of your favorite fried chicken without the excess oil. Once you try this easy copycat recipe, takeout may become a thing of the past!
Ingredients
For the Chicken
8 pieces chicken (drumsticks, thighs, or a mix)
2 cups buttermilk
1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
For the Seasoned Coating
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
For Cooking
Cooking spray or olive oil spray
Instructions
Place the chicken in a large bowl and pour over the buttermilk and hot sauce. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper.
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off.
Coat each piece thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently so the coating adheres well.
Lightly spray both sides of the coated chicken with cooking spray.
Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each piece.
Cook for 24–28 minutes, turning halfway through cooking and spraying lightly again if needed.
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
Mashed potatoes
Coleslaw
Corn on the cob
Biscuits
Mac and cheese
French fries
Tips for Extra Crispy Chicken
Marinate overnight for maximum tenderness.
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket.
Spray generously with oil to help achieve a golden, crunchy crust.
Cook in batches if necessary.
This crispy, flavorful Air Fryer KFC-Style Chicken is a family favorite that’s easy to make and tastes even better than takeout. Enjoy every crunchy, juicy bite!