Air Fryer Southern Fried Chicken is the ultimate comfort food that combines the beloved flavors of traditional fried chicken with the health-conscious benefits of air frying. The result is crispy, golden-brown chicken with a juicy interior, all while using significantly less oil than conventional frying methods. This recipe captures the essence of Southern cooking, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll love this air fryer southern fried chicken for its incredible flavor and ease of preparation. The air fryer allows you to achieve that coveted crunch without the guilt of deep frying. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal that cooks quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. The recipe is also customizable to fit various dietary preferences, ensuring that everyone at your table can enjoy a piece of this classic dish.
Tips and Tricks
To elevate your air fryer southern fried chicken, consider marinating the chicken in buttermilk overnight for maximum tenderness and flavor. For extra crunch, double coat the chicken by dipping it in egg and then rolling it in the seasoned flour mixture twice. Preheat your air fryer for 5-10 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking and a crispy finish. Lastly, don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary for optimal results.
Make Ahead Tips
For meal prep enthusiasts, you can marinate the chicken a day in advance to let the flavors deepen. The seasoned flour can also be prepared ahead of time and stored in an airtight container. If you’ve cooked more chicken than you can eat, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to switch up the seasonings in this recipe. For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour. You can also try using different cuts of chicken, like thighs or wings, for varied textures and flavors.
How to Serve
Serve your air fryer southern fried chicken hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon for a burst of brightness. Pair it with sides such as creamy coleslaw, cornbread, or mashed potatoes for a true Southern feast. Present the chicken on a rustic wooden platter for a homey feel, and consider adding a few sprigs of herbs for a pop of color.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, consider sweet tea or a classic lemonade to complement the savory flavors of the chicken. If you prefer something stronger, a light lager or a refreshing gin and tonic works wonderfully. On the side, serve baked beans or a fresh garden salad to round out the meal. For dessert, a slice of pecan pie or peach cobbler will satisfy any sweet tooth.
How to Store
To store leftovers, place the cooled chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the chicken for up to 2 months. To reheat, place the chicken back in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until heated through, ensuring the skin remains crispy.
Equipment Needed
You will need an air fryer to make this recipe. If you don’t have one, you can use a conventional oven; just adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly to achieve a similar crispy texture. A large mixing bowl, measuring cups, and a whisk will also come in handy for mixing the marinade and coating the chicken.
Dietary Adaptations
For a dairy-free version, substitute buttermilk with almond or coconut milk mixed with a little vinegar. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour for the coating. To make it vegan, consider using tofu or seitan as a chicken substitute and replace the egg with a flaxseed mixture for binding.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or dill to the flour mixture for a seasonal twist. In the fall, try incorporating spices like nutmeg or allspice for a warm flavor profile. For a winter variation, serve the chicken with roasted root vegetables to complement the hearty dish.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but ensure it is completely thawed before marinating.
How long do I cook the chicken? Cooking time varies depending on the size of the chicken pieces, but generally, it takes about 25-30 minutes at 375°F.
Can I make this recipe without an air fryer? Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and temperature when using a conventional oven.
How To Make air fryer southern fried chicken
Air Fryer Southern Fried Chicken
Air Fryer Southern Fried Chicken is the ultimate comfort food that combines the beloved flavors of traditional fried chicken with the health-conscious benefits of air frying.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, breasts)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
- 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 (optional)
- Cooking spray or oil for spraying
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine buttermilk and hot sauce (if using). Add chicken pieces and ensure they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
- In another bowl, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F for about 5-10 minutes.
- Remove chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing it to adhere well. For extra crunch, dip back in the buttermilk and coat with flour again.
- Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange chicken pieces in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd.
- Spray the tops of the chicken pieces lightly with oil. Cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Remove from the air fryer and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 619Total Fat 25gSaturated Fat 7gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 17gCholesterol 267mgSodium 853mgCarbohydrates 29gFiber 1gSugar 3gProtein 65g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making air fryer southern fried chicken is a rewarding experience that brings the flavors of the South right to your kitchen. The ease of preparation and the health benefits of air frying make it a go-to recipe for any home cook. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try, and savor the deliciousness of crispy, juicy chicken without the excess oil!