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Easy KFC Air Fryer Fried Chicken Recipe

If you’re a fan of crispy, succulent fried chicken but want to enjoy it without the guilt of deep frying, the air fryer is your new best friend. This easy KFC-style air fryer fried chicken recipe allows you to recreate that iconic Colonel Sanders’ flavour with significantly less oil, making it a healthier alternative. Whether you’re preparing a family feast or a casual gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress!

Ingredients

For the chicken marinade:

• 1 kg chicken pieces (legs, thighs, breasts, or a mixture)
• 500 ml buttermilk (or make your own with milk and a splash of vinegar)
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the seasoning coating:

• 200 g plain flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt, to taste

Method

1. Marinate the Chicken:

Start by marinating your chicken pieces in a mixture of buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This not only tenderises the chicken but also infuses it with flavour. Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or ideally, overnight for the best results.

2. Prepare the Coating:

In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, basil, black pepper, and salt. This fragrant blend of spices will give your chicken that classic KFC crunch.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer:

Before you start breading the chicken, preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F). If your air fryer requires preheating, this step is crucial for achieving that crispy texture.

4. Coat the Chicken:

After marinating, remove the chicken from the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring each piece is well coated. For an extra crispy texture, you can repeat this step, dipping back into the buttermilk and then the flour again.

5. Air Fry the Chicken:

Arrange the coated chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Be sure not to overcrowd the basket, as this will prevent even cooking. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to do this in batches.

Spray the chicken lightly with cooking oil to aid browning. Cook the chicken for approximately 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) and be golden brown and crispy on the outside.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring your chicken is moist and tender. Serve your KFC-style air fryer fried chicken with your favourite sides—think creamy coleslaw, buttery corn on the cob, or fluffy mashed potatoes for the perfect meal.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken

• Marinating Time: The longer you marinate, the more flavourful and tender your chicken becomes. If time permits, aim for an overnight marinade.
• Double Dredging: For an extra crispy coating, consider double dredging your chicken. This involves dipping it back into the buttermilk before coating it again in the seasoned flour.
• Air Fryer Variations: Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for best practices.

In conclusion, this easy KFC air fryer fried chicken recipe is a fantastic way to treat yourself and your loved ones to a homely classic with a healthier twist. With its crunchy exterior and juicy interior, you’ll hardly believe it’s cooked in an air fryer! So, gather your ingredients and get ready for a delicious chicken feast that’s bound to be a hit!

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