Introduction:
The Air Fryer Whole Chicken is a perfect combination of crispy skin, juicy meat, and minimal cooking time. Using the air fryer to cook a whole chicken is a game-changer, as it results in a beautifully roasted bird with less oil and faster than traditional methods.
The air fryer circulates hot air around the chicken, creating a golden, crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and flavorful.
This recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend family dinner!
Ingredients:
1 whole chicken (3-4 pounds)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp dried rosemary
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 lemon (cut into wedges, optional)
Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, etc., optional)
Instructions
Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy skin. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken, rubbing it into the skin.
Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning mixture evenly over the entire chicken, making sure it’s well-coated.
Stuff the Chicken (optional): If desired, stuff the chicken cavity with lemon wedges and fresh herbs for added flavor.
Cook the Chicken: Place the chicken in the air fryer basket, breast side down. Cook for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, flip the chicken over and cook for another 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute.
Description
This Air Fryer Whole Chicken is the epitome of convenience and flavor. It takes about an hour to cook, making it a great choice for a busy day when you want to enjoy a home-cooked meal with minimal effort. The seasoning infuses the chicken with rich, savory flavors, and the air fryer ensures it cooks evenly and efficiently, giving you that crispy skin everyone loves. Pair it with roasted vegetables or a simple salad for a well-rounded meal.
Tips
Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to achieve the crispiest skin.
If you like extra crispy skin, increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last 10 minutes of cooking.
For a deeper flavor, let the chicken marinate with the seasoning for an hour or overnight in the fridge.
If your air fryer is small, you might need to cut the chicken into halves or quarters for better airflow and even cooking.
Variations
Herb and Garlic: Add more fresh garlic and herbs like parsley and basil for a Mediterranean twist.
Spicy: Include chili powder or cayenne pepper in the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
Citrus: Experiment with other citrus fruits like oranges or limes for a zesty flavor.
BBQ: Brush the chicken with your favorite barbecue sauce during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a smoky, sweet finish.
Corrections
Ensure that your chicken is cooked to the right temperature (165°F or 74°C). If you find that your chicken is not fully cooked after the specified time, extend the cooking time by 5-10 minutes and check the temperature again.
Always check your air fryer’s size and capacity; some models may require cutting the chicken into parts to fit properly.
Enjoy
Once your Air Fryer Whole Chicken is perfectly cooked, carve it up, serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy a juicy, flavorful meal with a crispy exterior. It’s an easy, delicious dinner that will have everyone coming back for seconds!