Here’s a detailed, step-by-step KFC-style Chicken made in the Air Fryer 🍗
It’s crispy, flavorful, and much lighter than deep-fried.
KFC-Style Air Fryer Chicken (Detailed Recipe)
Serves
4 people
Ingredients
Chicken
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6–8 pieces chicken (drumsticks, thighs, or bone-in breasts)
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2 cups buttermilk
(or 2 cups milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice; rest 5 minutes)
Coating (KFC-Style Seasoning)
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 tsp salt
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1 tsp black pepper
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1 tsp paprika
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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½ tsp dried thyme
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½ tsp dried basil
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½ tsp dried oregano
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½ tsp white pepper (optional but authentic)
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½ tsp celery salt (optional)
For Crispiness
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Cooking spray or oil spray
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
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Place chicken in a large bowl.
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Pour buttermilk over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are covered.
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Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour
(overnight is best for flavor and tenderness).
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
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In a large bowl or shallow dish, mix:
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Flour
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All spices and seasonings
-
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Stir until evenly combined.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
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Remove chicken from buttermilk (do not wipe it dry).
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Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour.
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Press flour firmly onto the chicken to create a thick coating.
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Place coated chicken on a rack or plate and let rest 10 minutes
(this helps the coating stick better).
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
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Preheat air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 5 minutes.
Step 5: Air Fry the Chicken
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Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil.
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Arrange chicken in a single layer (do not overcrowd).
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Spray the tops of the chicken generously with oil.
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Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway.
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After flipping, spray again lightly with oil.
Step 6: Check Doneness
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Chicken is done when:
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Internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C)
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Coating is golden and crispy
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(Larger pieces may need 3–5 extra minutes.)
Step 7: Rest and Serve
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Let chicken rest 5 minutes before serving.
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Serve hot and crispy.
Tips for Best KFC-Style Results
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Bone-in chicken gives the best flavor
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Oil spray is key for crispiness
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Don’t stack chicken—cook in batches if needed
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Add a pinch of cayenne if you want a spicy version
Great Side Pairings
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Mashed potatoes & gravy
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Coleslaw
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Biscuits
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Corn on the cob