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Crispy Air Fryer Fried Chicken | Easy Air Fryer Recipes Dinner

Air fryer recipes shine with this easy, crispy fried chicken! Make dinner recipes quick, easy, and delicious with this air fryer favorite.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keywords: air fryer recipes, dinner recipes, easy recipes, food receipt easy recipes, quick and easy recipes, recipes for dinner, sweet easy recipes
Servings: 4 servings
Author: Betty

Ingredients

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or assorted chicken pieces)
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 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)
  • Olive oil spray or nonstick cooking spray

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and egg. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight in the fridge for best flavor.
  2. In a separate bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
  3. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing to coat well. Shake off excess flour.
  4. Preheat your air fryer to 370°F for 3–5 minutes.
  5. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Arrange chicken pieces in a single layer, skin side down. Spray tops of chicken generously with oil.
  6. Air fry for 15 minutes, flip, spray again, and air fry another 10–15 minutes, or until chicken is golden, crispy, and cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
  7. Remove and let rest a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Marinating chicken in buttermilk ensures juicy, flavorful results. Don’t crowd the basket—air circulation is key for crispy coating! Use assorted chicken pieces if preferred.