Craving crispy, juicy fried chicken without the excess oil This Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken recipe gives you all the crunch and flavor of classic fried chicken with a healthier twist Perfect for a quick dinner or a crowd pleasing meal, this fast and easy method ensures golden brown, crispy perfection in every bite
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy and Juicy – Thanks to the buttermilk marinade and air fryer magic
Healthier Option – Less oil, same great taste
Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes
No Mess – No deep frying or splattering oil
Perfect for Meal Prep – Make ahead and reheat for easy meals
Kid Friendly – A family favorite everyone will love
The Secret to Perfect Air Fryer Fried Chicken
The key to making the best air fryer buttermilk fried chicken lies in three things
1 The Buttermilk Marinade – This tenderizes the chicken and enhances the flavor 2 The Perfect Coating – A mix of flour, panko breadcrumbs, and seasonings ensures a crispy, golden crust 3 The Right Cooking Technique – Proper air frying temperature and spacing prevent sogginess and ensure crispiness
Ingredients
To make the best air fryer buttermilk fried chicken, you’ll need
- 2 lbs 900g chicken thighs, drumsticks, or breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper optional for extra spice
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp hot sauce optional for flavor boost
- Olive oil spray
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1 Marinate the Chicken
1 In a large bowl, mix buttermilk, egg, and hot sauce 2 Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully coated 3 Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for maximum flavor
Step 2 Prepare the Coating
1 In a separate bowl, combine flour, panko breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper 2 Remove chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off 3 Dredge each piece in the dry mixture, pressing gently to coat well
Step 3 Air Fry to Crispy Perfection
1 Preheat your air fryer to 375°F 190°C for 3 to 5 minutes 2 Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray 3 Place chicken in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they don’t touch 4 Spray the top of the chicken lightly with oil to enhance crispiness 5 Air fry for 22 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy 6 Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F 75°C internally
Step 4 Serve and Enjoy
Let the fried chicken rest for a few minutes before serving Pair with coleslaw, fries, or a dipping sauce for an extra treat
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Fried Chicken
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket – Air circulation is key for even cooking
Use Panko for Extra Crunch – It adds a crispier texture
Spray Lightly with Oil – Helps achieve a golden, crispy finish
Let the Chicken Rest – This keeps it juicy inside while crispy outside
Reheat Properly – Use the air fryer at 350°F for 5 minutes to maintain crispiness
Serving Suggestions
Pair your crispy buttermilk fried chicken with
- Classic Southern Sides – Mashed potatoes, biscuits, or cornbread
- Healthy Options – Roasted vegetables or a fresh salad
- Dipping Sauces – Honey mustard, ranch, or spicy mayo
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken
Yes Adjust cooking time to 15 to 18 minutes for boneless breasts or thighs
What if I don’t have buttermilk
Use 1 cup milk plus 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute
How do I store leftovers
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F 175°C for 5 minutes to retain crispiness
Can I freeze fried chicken
Yes Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 10 to 12 minutes
Health Benefits of Air Fryer Fried Chicken
Switching to air fryer fried chicken provides multiple benefits
- Lower Fat Content – Uses up to 80 percent less oil than deep frying
- Fewer Calories – A guilt free way to enjoy fried chicken
- Retains Nutrients – Air frying preserves more vitamins than deep frying
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken in the Air Fryer is a must try for fried chicken lovers It’s crunchy, juicy, and packed with flavor all with a healthier twist Try it today and enjoy guilt free indulgence
