Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
- Pat the Chicken Dry: Use paper towels to pat the chicken pieces dry. Removing excess moisture helps to achieve a crispy skin.
- Season: In a small bowl, mix the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Brush the chicken pieces with olive oil, then evenly sprinkle the seasoning mix over them. Rub the seasonings on all sides to coat well.
Step 2: Preheating the Air Fryer
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Most air fryers take about 3-5 minutes to preheat. Preheating ensures that the cooking starts immediately and helps to cook the chicken evenly.
Step 3: Cooking the Chicken
- Arrange the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure the air can circulate freely around the chicken, cooking it evenly and making the skin crispy.
- Cooking Time:
- For chicken breasts: Cook for about 22-25 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time.
- For thighs and drumsticks: Cook for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. The exact cooking time can vary based on the size of the chicken pieces and the specific air fryer model.
- Check for Doneness: The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat without touching the bone.
Step 4: Resting the Chicken
- Rest: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and flavorful.
Step 5: Serving
- Serve the air fryer chicken hot with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or rice.
Tips:
- Season Well: Feel free to adjust the seasonings based on your preferences. Experiment with different herbs and spices to find your favorite combination.
- No Need to Turn if Using a Basket: If your air fryer has a basket that allows for air circulation all around, you might not need to flip the chicken halfway. However, checking and flipping can ensure even crispiness.
- Keep It Moist: Brushing the chicken with a bit of olive oil helps to keep the meat moist and encourages the skin to crisp up.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked, juicy, and crispy chicken made right in your air fryer! This method is a healthier alternative to frying and a convenient option for delicious meals.