Here’s a crispy, juicy KFC-style chicken recipe you can make in the air fryer — no deep frying needed 🍗✨

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🍗 KFC-Style Chicken in the Air Fryer

Ingredients (Serves 4)

Chicken

• 8 pieces chicken (drumsticks + thighs recommended)
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Coating

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional)
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano (optional)
• 1/2 tsp cayenne (optional for heat)
• 2 tbsp cornstarch (for extra crunch)

For Air Frying

• Cooking spray or a little oil (olive or avocado)

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Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

1. Mix buttermilk with salt, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Add chicken pieces and refrigerate at least 2 hours (overnight best).

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2. Prepare the Coating

1. Mix flour, cornstarch, and all spices in a bowl.
2. Set aside.

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3. Coat the Chicken

1. Remove chicken from buttermilk.
2. Dredge in flour mixture, pressing to coat well.
3. Shake off excess.

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4. Air Fry

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
2. Spray the basket lightly with cooking spray.
3. Place chicken in a single layer (don’t overcrowd).
4. Spray tops lightly with oil.
5. Cook 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway and spraying again if needed.
6. Check internal temperature: 165°F (74°C).

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5. Serve

• Let rest 5 minutes before serving
• Serve with fries, coleslaw, or mashed potatoes

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⭐ Tips for Extra Crispy KFC-Style Chicken

• Use cornstarch in the coating for crunch.
• Double dredge: flour → egg wash → flour again (optional).
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket.
• Spray oil lightly to help crisp the coating.