1. Preparing the Chicken
- Rinse and Dry: Rinse the whole chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Removing as much moisture as possible will help achieve crispy skin.
- Remove Giblets: If the chicken has giblets, remove them from the cavity and set them aside for another use or discard them.
2. Seasoning the Chicken
- Mix the Spices: In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, and dried rosemary.
- Rub with Olive Oil: Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and use your hands to rub it all over, ensuring it is well coated.
- Apply the Spice Mix: Sprinkle the spice mixture over the chicken, rubbing it into the skin and inside the cavity for maximum flavor.
3. Stuffing the Chicken
- Lemon and Garlic: Stuff the cavity of the chicken with the halved lemon and the smashed garlic cloves.
- Optional Fresh Herbs: If using, add a few sprigs of fresh herbs into the cavity.
4. Cooking the Chicken
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (182°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Place the Chicken in the Basket: Place the chicken, breast side down, in the air fryer basket. This helps to keep the breast meat moist.
- Initial Cooking: Cook the chicken at 360°F for 30 minutes.
- Flip the Chicken: After 30 minutes, carefully flip the chicken breast side up. Use tongs or a spatula to avoid tearing the skin.
- Continue Cooking: Cook for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh and breast.
5. Resting and Serving
- Rest the Chicken: Once fully cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest on a cutting board for at least 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for a juicier chicken.
- Carve and Serve: Carve the chicken and serve with your favorite sides. Enjoy the perfectly crispy skin and juicy meat!
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Size Chicken: Ensure the chicken fits comfortably in your air fryer basket. A 3.5 to 4-pound chicken works best for most standard air fryers.
- Season Generously: Don’t be afraid to season the chicken well. The combination of olive oil and spices creates a flavorful and crispy skin.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F in the thickest part of the chicken.
Variations
- Spicy Chicken: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the spice mix for a kick of heat.
- Herb Butter Chicken: Rub the chicken with a mixture of softened butter and fresh herbs under the skin for extra richness.
- Lemon Pepper Chicken: Use lemon zest and freshly ground black pepper for a zesty variation.
Conclusion
Cooking a whole chicken in an air fryer is not only quick and convenient but also delivers a mouthwatering result with minimal effort. This recipe for the BEST Air Fryer Whole Chicken ensures a juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked bird every time. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress and become a family favorite. Enjoy the crispy skin and tender meat, and savor every bite of this air fryer masterpiece!