Air Fryer “KFC-Style” Chicken recipe that tastes better than takeout! 🍗
Ingredients (for 4 servings)
8 chicken drumsticks or thighs (skin-on for extra crispiness)
1 cup buttermilk
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried thyme (optional)
1 tsp dried oregano (optional)
For the coating:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Cooking spray or a little oil for brushing
Instructions
Marinate the chicken
In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, and oregano.
Add chicken pieces, coat well, and let them marinate at least 1 hour, ideally 4–6 hours in the fridge.
Prepare the coating
In a separate bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne.
Dredge each piece of marinated chicken in the flour mixture, pressing lightly so it sticks well. Shake off excess.
Air fry the chicken
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Spray the basket lightly with cooking spray.
Place chicken in a single layer (don’t overcrowd). Spray tops lightly with cooking spray or brush with a little oil.
Cook 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Serve
Let chicken rest 5 minutes before serving.
Enjoy with your favorite sides: mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or biscuits!
💡 Tips for Extra Crispy Chicken:
Pat the chicken dry before coating for better crunch.
Double-dredge: dip in flour, then buttermilk again, then flour for an ultra-crispy crust.
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer; cook in batches if needed.
