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A Taste of Tradition: Black Folks’ Soul Food Southern Fried Chicken Recipe in the Air Fryer

Southern fried chicken is a beloved staple of Black food culture, celebrated for its crispy, golden exterior and juicy, tender meat. Traditionally cooked in a deep fryer, this culinary delight has now made its way into modern kitchens with the advent of the air fryer. This cooking method allows you to achieve the same mouth-watering flavours and textures while reducing the amount of oil used, making it a healthier, yet equally delicious, alternative. Let’s explore this scrumptious recipe for Southern fried chicken, infused with flavours that pay homage to its rich heritage.

Ingredients

To prepare this soul food classic in your air fryer, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 kg of chicken pieces (legs, thighs, or breasts)
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for a spicy kick)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• Cooking spray or a light coating of oil

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

Begin by marinating the chicken pieces. In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce, if using. Add the chicken, making sure each piece is generously coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for an even deeper flavour. The buttermilk not only infuses the chicken with moisture but also tenderises the meat beautifully.

2. Prepare the Flour Mixture

In another bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if desired). Mix well to ensure an even distribution of the spices, which will give your chicken that signature flavour profile.

3. Dredge the Chicken

Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the buttermilk and allow any excess to drip off. Dredge each piece thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating adheres well. Shake off any excess flour.

4. Preheat the Air Fryer

Before cooking, preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for about 3-5 minutes, ensuring even cooking right from the start.

5. Air Fry the Chicken

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the dredged chicken pieces in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches. Spray the tops of the chicken pieces lightly with oil to encourage browning.

Air fry the chicken at 180°C (350°F) for about 25-30 minutes. Turn the pieces halfway through cooking to ensure even crispiness. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) and the coating is beautifully golden and crispy.

6. Let Rest and Serve

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is succulent. Serve your air-fried Southern fried chicken with traditional sides such as collard greens, cornbread, or mac ‘n’ cheese for a true Southern experience.

Conclusion

Enjoying Southern fried chicken in the air fryer is an excellent way to savour this cherished dish while embracing a healthier cooking method. The air fryer does not compromise on flavour or texture, delivering that iconic crunch and juicy interior. Whether it’s a Sunday dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe is bound to evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia, reminding us of the rich culinary traditions that shape Black culture and soul food. So, roll up your sleeves and enjoy a taste of the South right from your own kitchen!

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