Summary of How To Cook Fried Chicken in the Air Fryer, According to Chefs:
*Summary:
– The air fryer is a convenient and affordable appliance that can cook food with a crispy exterior and tender interior.
– You can cook a variety of foods in an air fryer, including fried chicken.
– To cook fried chicken in the air fryer, you can either season it or lightly batter it before cooking.
– Preheating the air fryer is an important step to ensure crispy chicken.
– The chicken should be cooked for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until it is golden brown and cooked through.
Life can get busy and sometimes we need a quick and easy way to prepare a meal. This is where the air fryer comes in handy. It’s a popular kitchen appliance that can cook food in a matter of minutes, and it’s a healthier alternative to deep frying because it requires less cooking oil. One of the best foods to cook in the air fryer is crispy fried chicken. Not only does it require less cleanup, but it also cuts back on calories and fat compared to traditional frying methods.
Before we dive into how to cook fried chicken in the air fryer, let’s take a closer look at the appliance itself. The air fryer uses a convection-style process to produce hot air and circulate it throughout the fryer using a fan. This creates a crispy exterior and a tender interior, mimicking the texture of fried food without the excessive use of oils. It’s a convenient and affordable tool that can be placed on your kitchen counter.
Now that we know more about the air fryer, let’s talk about what you can cook in it. The possibilities are endless, from wings to steak, french fries, bacon, vegetables, and of course, fried chicken. However, there are a few foods you should avoid cooking in the air fryer, such as grated cheese, delicate pastries, leafy greens, foods with sticky sauces, and popcorn. These foods may not turn out as expected or could cause a mess in the fryer.
When it comes to cooking fried chicken in the air fryer, there are a few things to consider. First, you need to decide if you want to use a batter or simply season the chicken. The air fryer naturally creates a crispy outer layer, so you can opt to skip the batter and season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other spices of your choice. However, if you want an extra breaded bite, you can lightly coat the chicken with flour or breadcrumbs before placing it in the fryer.
To prepare the chicken, start by cutting it into bite-sized pieces and seasoning it with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you like. Alternatively, you can marinate the chicken in buttermilk for extra flavor. If you choose to batter the chicken, dip it into a mixture of either flour with seasoning or seasoned breadcrumbs. Be sure to remove any excess coating by shaking off the chicken to avoid a sticky consistency. The coating should be uniformly thin and spread across the chicken for the desired effect.
Once your chicken is prepared, it’s time to preheat the air fryer. This step is often overlooked but helps ensure a crispy exterior without drying out the meat. Preheat the air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit before placing the chicken pieces in a single layer in the basket of the fryer. This will promote even cooking and browning.
Now comes the easy part, cooking the chicken. Cook the chicken in the preheated air fryer for about 15 minutes, or until it is golden brown and cooked through. It’s important to flip the chicken pieces halfway through cooking to ensure both sides are evenly cooked. Following these steps will result in delicious fried chicken that is golden and crunchy on the outside, and juicy and tender on the inside.
In conclusion, the air fryer is a convenient and affordable appliance that can be used to cook a variety of foods, including crispy fried chicken. By following the tips shared by professional chefs, you can achieve a delicious and healthier version of fried chicken. Whether you choose to season the chicken or lightly batter it, preheating the air fryer and cooking the chicken for the recommended time will yield amazing results. So next time you’re in a rush and craving some fried chicken, give the air fryer a try. You won’t be disappointed!
