Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe: Crispy, Delicious, and Healthy

Introduction: Craving crispy, juicy fried chicken without the guilt? Look no further than this Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken recipe. By using an air fryer, you can achieve the same delicious results as traditional frying with a fraction of the oil. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite.

Ingredients:

To prepare Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

• 8 pieces of chicken (drumsticks or thighs)
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Cooking spray

Preparation Steps:

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce (if using). Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
2. Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to ensure even distribution of the spices.
3. Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
5. Air Fry the Chicken: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch each other. Lightly spray the chicken with cooking spray to help achieve a crispy exterior. Cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Taste and Texture:

Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken delivers a delightful combination of crispy and juicy goodness. The buttermilk marinade tenderizes the chicken, while the seasoned flour coating provides a flavorful crunch. The air fryer ensures even cooking with minimal oil, resulting in a healthier version of this classic dish without sacrificing taste or texture.

Serving Suggestions:

Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a perfect companion to the crispy chicken.
• Coleslaw: A tangy and refreshing coleslaw balances the rich flavors of the fried chicken.
• Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob adds a sweet and savory element to the meal.
• Biscuits: Soft, buttery biscuits are perfect for soaking up any juices from the chicken.

Conclusion:

Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken is a fantastic recipe that offers a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken without compromising on flavor and texture. With its crispy exterior and juicy interior, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it is easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress.

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