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Perfectly Crispy Air Fryer Whole Roast Chicken

In recent years, air fryers have become a staple kitchen appliance, transforming the way we cook by offering a healthier, faster alternative to traditional frying methods. One of the most delightful dishes you can prepare in an air fryer is a whole roast chicken. Juicy on the inside with a beautifully crispy skin, an air fryer whole roast chicken is a show-stopping meal that’s surprisingly easy to make.

Why Choose Air Fryer for Roast Chicken?

Air fryers circulate hot air around the food, which not only cooks it evenly but also gives it that coveted crispy texture without the need for excessive oil. This means you can enjoy the rich flavours of roast chicken while consuming fewer calories – a win-win!

What You’ll Need

• 1 whole chicken (approximately 1.5 kg)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or parsley), optional
• Lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions

1. Preparation: Start by removing the giblets from the chicken’s cavity, if applicable. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels; a dry surface ensures a crispy skin.

2. Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix the olive oil or melted butter with the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin and inside the cavity. If you have fresh herbs, you can stuff some inside the cavity along with the lemon wedges for extra flavour.

3. Air Fryer Setup: Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for about 5 minutes.

4. Cooking: Place the seasoned chicken in the air fryer basket, breast side down, and cook for 30 minutes. After this, carefully flip the chicken over so it is breast side up. Cook for an additional 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) when measured at the thickest part of the thigh.

5. Resting: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavourful.

6. Serving: Carve the chicken and serve it with your choice of sides. Roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad complement the chicken beautifully.

Tips for the Best Roast Chicken

• Size Matters: Make sure your chicken fits comfortably in your air fryer. A bird that’s too large may not cook evenly.
• Marinating: For even more flavour, consider marinating your chicken for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
• Crispy Skin: If you prefer an extra crispy skin, you can increase the temperature to 200°C (400°F) for the last 5 minutes of cooking. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Conclusion

Cooking a whole roast chicken in an air fryer is not only convenient but also a delicious way to enjoy a classic meal with a modern twist. The result is a succulent chicken with that perfect golden-brown crunch that will impress family and friends alike. Next time you’re looking for a hearty dinner that’s quick to prepare and full of flavour, give an air fryer whole roast chicken a try – you won’t be disappointed!