Prep Time: 20 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 8 chicken drumsticks or thighs
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
For the Coating
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon white pepper
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1 teaspoon celery salt
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
Additional
- Olive oil cooking spray
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces and coat them thoroughly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For even better flavor and tenderness, marinate the chicken overnight.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
In a separate large bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, thyme, black pepper, white pepper, mustard powder, celery salt, ginger, cayenne pepper, and salt.
Stir well so the spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Remove each chicken piece from the buttermilk, allowing the excess liquid to drip off.
Press each piece firmly into the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring every surface is completely coated.
For an extra crispy crust, dip the coated chicken back into the buttermilk and coat it in the flour mixture one more time.
Place the coated chicken on a wire rack and let it rest for 10 minutes. This helps the coating stick during cooking.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 5 minutes.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Cook the Chicken
Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Leave space between each piece so hot air can circulate properly.
Lightly spray the tops of the chicken with olive oil cooking spray.
Cook for 15 minutes.
Carefully flip each piece.
Spray the other side lightly with cooking spray.
Continue cooking for another 10–12 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the coating is crispy and golden brown.
If necessary, cook for an additional 2–3 minutes for extra crispiness.
Step 6: Rest Before Serving
Remove the chicken from the air fryer and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Resting helps the juices redistribute, keeping every bite moist and flavorful.
Tips for the Best Air Fryer KFC Chicken
- Use buttermilk to keep the chicken moist and tender.
- Double-coat the chicken for an extra crispy crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket.
- Spray the coating lightly with oil to achieve an even golden color.
- Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Cook in batches if necessary for the crispiest results.
Serving Suggestions
This crispy chicken pairs perfectly with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Coleslaw
- Macaroni and cheese
- French fries
- Corn on the cob
- Biscuits
- Baked beans
- Garden salad
Serve with your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch dressing, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, buffalo sauce, or spicy mayonnaise.
Storage
Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To restore crispiness, reheat the chicken in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 4–6 minutes.
Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the coating soft.
Recipe Notes
Different air fryer models may cook slightly differently, so always check the internal temperature rather than relying solely on cooking time.
Chicken thighs and drumsticks tend to stay juicier than chicken breasts, making them ideal for this recipe.
Adjust the cayenne pepper according to your preferred spice level.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Calcium: 90mg
- Iron: 3mg