Crispy and Delicious Air Fried Chicken Recipe with Buttermilk

Get ready to satisfy your cravings for a crispy and delicious meal with this mouthwatering Air Fried Chicken Recipe with Buttermilk. Whether you’re a fan of fried chicken or looking for a healthier alternative, this recipe is sure to be a winner. With the magic of air frying, you can achieve the perfect golden-brown crust without all the added oil. Not only does it cut down on calories, but it also locks in the juicy tenderness of the chicken. So, put away your deep fryer and prepare to enjoy a guilt-free indulgence. ️

What is Air Fried Chicken?

Discover the concept of air frying and how it revolutionizes traditional chicken recipes by using hot air circulation. Air fried chicken has gained popularity as a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. The process involves using hot air circulation at high temperatures to cook the chicken, resulting in a crispy and delicious meal.

Air frying is a cooking method that uses a device called an air fryer. This kitchen appliance cooks food by circulating hot air around it, similar to a convection oven. The air fryer uses a fan to distribute the hot air evenly, ensuring that the chicken is cooked through and crispy on the outside.

Traditional frying methods involve submerging the chicken in hot oil, which can lead to a greasy and calorie-laden dish. Air frying, on the other hand, requires little to no oil. This means that you can enjoy the crispy texture and savory flavor of fried chicken without the excess oil and added calories.

The air frying process also significantly reduces cooking time compared to traditional methods. The hot air circulating around the chicken cooks it from all angles, resulting in a faster cooking process. This can be especially beneficial for those with busy schedules or for those who want a quick and easy meal option.

The Science Behind Air Frying

Air frying works by utilizing the Maillard reaction, a chemical reaction that occurs between amino acids and sugars when exposed to high heat. This reaction is responsible for the browning and crisping of food. In the case of air fried chicken, the hot air circulating around the chicken causes the Maillard reaction to take place, resulting in a crispy golden crust.

Additionally, the circulating hot air in the air fryer helps to cook the chicken evenly. The fan ensures that the heat is distributed evenly throughout the cooking chamber, resulting in a uniformly cooked chicken with a crispy exterior and juicy interior.

Benefits of Air Frying Chicken

Air frying chicken offers numerous benefits, making it a popular cooking method among health-conscious individuals. Here are some key advantages:

• Healthier option: By using little to no oil, air fried chicken contains significantly fewer calories and less unhealthy fats compared to traditional fried chicken.
• Reduced risk of cardiovascular disease: The lower oil content in air fried chicken can contribute to a healthier cardiovascular system by reducing the intake of unhealthy fats.
• Quick and convenient: Air frying chicken cuts down on cooking time, making it a great option for those looking for a quick and easy meal.
• Less mess: Unlike traditional frying methods that involve large amounts of oil, air frying is a cleaner and less messy process.
• Versatile: Air fryers can be used to cook a variety of foods, not just chicken. They can also be used to bake, roast, and grill, making them a versatile kitchen appliance.

Why Use Buttermilk in Air Fried Chicken

Buttermilk is an essential ingredient in many air fried chicken recipes. It serves multiple purposes when used in the marination process:

• Tenderizing the chicken: The acidity in buttermilk helps to break down the proteins in the chicken, resulting in a tender and juicy texture.
• Enhancing flavor: Buttermilk adds a tangy and slightly creamy flavor to the chicken, enhancing its overall taste.
• Moisture retention: The buttermilk helps to retain moisture in the chicken, preventing it from drying out during the air frying process.

Overall, air fried chicken with buttermilk is a perfect combination of crispy texture, delicious flavor, and healthier cooking method. By understanding the concept of air frying, the science behind it, the benefits it offers, and the importance of buttermilk in the process, you can create a mouthwatering and guilt-free meal that will satisfy your cravings.

Choosing the Right Chicken

Crispy and delicious air fried chicken starts with choosing the right cuts of chicken. Not all chicken cuts are created equal when it comes to air frying. Some cuts may turn out moist and tender, while others may become dry and tough. To ensure the best results, it’s important to know which cuts are ideal for air frying and how to prepare them beforehand.

Note: It’s crucial to choose bone-in chicken pieces for air frying as they retain more moisture and result in juicier chicken.

Preferred Chicken Cuts for Air Frying

The best cuts of chicken for air frying include bone-in and skin-on pieces such as drumsticks, chicken thighs, and chicken wings. These cuts have a higher fat content, which helps them stay moist and flavorful during the air frying process. Additionally, the skin crisps up beautifully, adding a delightful texture to the finished dish.

When selecting chicken pieces, make sure they are of similar size to ensure even cooking. This will help prevent smaller pieces from becoming overcooked while larger ones remain undercooked.

• Drumsticks: Drumsticks are a popular choice for air frying due to their rich flavor and tender texture. They are also well-suited for marinating, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat.
• Chicken Thighs: Chicken thighs are known for their moist and succulent meat. The thigh meat stays juicy even after being air fried, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer more tender chicken.
• Chicken Wings: Chicken wings are perfect for air frying, as the hot circulating air helps render the fat, resulting in crispy and flavorful wings. Whether you prefer them spicy or tangy, air-fried chicken wings are sure to please.

Preparing the Chicken for Marinating

Before marinating the chicken, it’s important to properly prepare the pieces to enhance their flavor and texture.

Start by rinsing the chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. This removes any excess moisture and helps the marinade stick to the chicken better.

Note: Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw chicken to prevent cross-contamination.

Next, you can choose to leave the skin on or remove it according to your preference. Leaving the skin on will result in a more flavorful and juicier chicken, while removing it will produce a lighter and slightly healthier version.

After preparing the chicken, it’s time to move onto the marinating process to infuse it with delicious flavors.

Tips for a Flavorful Buttermilk Marinade

Marinating the chicken in buttermilk is a fantastic way to tenderize the meat and add depth of flavor. Buttermilk contains lactic acid, which helps break down the proteins in the chicken, resulting in a more tender texture.

Here are some tips to ensure a flavorful buttermilk marinade:

• Use Full-Fat Buttermilk: Opt for full-fat buttermilk as it adds a richer flavor to the chicken. You can find buttermilk in the dairy section of most grocery stores.
• Add Seasonings and Spices: Enhance the flavor of the marinade by adding your favorite seasonings and spices. Common additions include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, and black pepper.
• Marinate for an Adequate Time: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight, to ensure the flavors fully penetrate the meat.
• Remove Excess Marinade: Before air frying, make sure to gently shake off any excess marinade from the chicken. This prevents it from becoming overly wet and helps it crisp up evenly.

By following these tips, you can create a flavorful and juicy air fried chicken recipe using the buttermilk marinade. Experiment with different seasonings and spices to customize the flavors to your liking.

The Perfect Buttermilk Marinade

When it comes to air frying chicken, a buttermilk marinade is essential for achieving the perfect crispy and delicious results. The marinade not only tenderizes the meat but also enhances the flavor profile of the chicken. Let’s dive into the key components of a mouthwatering buttermilk marinade for your air fried chicken recipe.

Essential Ingredients for the Marinade

To create a delectable buttermilk marinade, you’ll need a few essential ingredients. Start with 2 cups of buttermilk, which serves as the base for the marinade. Buttermilk contains enzymes that help break down the proteins in the chicken, resulting in a tender and juicy texture.

In addition to buttermilk, you’ll need 2 cloves of garlic, finely minced, to add a subtle hint of savory flavor. Garlic also has antimicrobial properties that can help keep the chicken fresh during the marinating process. Don’t forget to include 1 tablespoon of hot sauce to give the chicken a touch of spiciness.

For a tangy and zesty flavor, squeeze in the juice of 1 lemon. The acidity of the lemon juice helps tenderize the meat further and adds brightness to the overall taste. To balance the flavors, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper into the marinade.

Lastly, add a tablespoon of dried herbs like thyme or rosemary to infuse a subtle earthy aroma into the marinade. Feel free to experiment with different herbs to suit your taste preferences and create a unique flavor profile.

Marinating Time and Techniques

Once you’ve prepared the buttermilk marinade, it’s crucial to marinate the chicken for an adequate amount of time to ensure maximum flavor infusion. Ideally, let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 2 hours. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and results in a tender and flavorful chicken.

To marinate the chicken, place the chicken pieces in a large bowl or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the buttermilk marinade over the chicken, ensuring that all pieces are fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate.

You can also utilize the technique of “double dipping” to enhance the flavor and crispiness of your air fried chicken. After the initial marinating process, remove the chicken from the marinade, let any excess drip off, and then dip it back into the buttermilk marinade. This second coating ensures a more robust flavor profile and a crispier coating.

Enhancing the Flavors with Seasonings

To take your air fried chicken to the next level, season the chicken with additional herbs and spices after marinating. This step adds another layer of flavor and makes your chicken truly exceptional.

You can create a seasoning blend by combining 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme. Sprinkle this blend generously over the marinated chicken before air frying.

For a burst of tangy flavor, drizzle some lemon juice over the seasoned chicken just before cooking. This not only adds moisture but also enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Remember, the key to a successful air fried chicken recipe with buttermilk lies in the quality of the marinade. Take your time to marinate the chicken adequately and incorporate the right ingredients and seasonings. Your taste buds will thank you as they savor every crispy and flavorful bite!

If you’re a fan of buttermilk recipes, you might also be interested in this buttermilk pancakes recipe. It’s a classic breakfast dish that can be enjoyed with various toppings.

Coating and Breading Options

When it comes to air frying chicken, the secret to achieving a crispy and flavorful outer layer lies in the coating and breading choices. By exploring different options, you can elevate your air fried chicken dish to new heights. From traditional flour coatings to gluten-free alternatives, let’s delve into the world of coatings and breading for your air fried chicken.

Traditional Flour Coating

A classic choice for coating chicken, traditional flour coating provides a familiar and delicious crunch. To achieve this coating, start by dipping your chicken pieces in a buttermilk mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Then, dredge the chicken in seasoned flour, making sure it is evenly coated. The buttermilk helps bind the flour to the chicken, creating a crisp texture when air fried.

• Traditional flour coating offers a familiar and satisfying crunch.
• The combination of buttermilk and flour creates a deliciously crispy texture.
• Perfect for those who enjoy classic flavors and textures.

Panko Bread Crumbs for Extra Crunch

If you desire an even crunchier coating for your air fried chicken, consider using panko bread crumbs. Panko is a type of Japanese breadcrumb renowned for its light and airy texture. To use panko as a coating, follow a similar process to the traditional flour coating but substitute the seasoned flour with panko bread crumbs. The result is an extra crispy and crunchy outer layer.

• Panko bread crumbs add an extra level of crunch to your air fried chicken.
• The airy texture of panko creates a light and crispy coating.
• Ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced crunch in every bite.

Low-Carb and Gluten-Free Alternatives

For those following a low-carb or gluten-free diet, there are excellent alternatives to traditional coatings. Instead of flour, consider using almond flour or coconut flour, both of which are low in carbs. These coatings not only provide a crispy texture, but they also add a unique nutty flavor to your air fried chicken.

If you’re gluten-free, you can also opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs made from ingredients such as rice flour or cornmeal. These alternatives allow you to enjoy the same delicious crunch without compromising your dietary restrictions.

• Low-carb coatings like almond flour and coconut flour cater to those following a low-carb diet.
• Gluten-free breadcrumbs provide a safe option for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
• Trying out alternative coatings adds new flavors and textures to your air fried chicken.

With these coating and breading options, you now have the tools to create a perfectly crispy and flavorful outer layer for your air fried chicken. Whether you prefer the traditional flour coating, crave the extra crunch of panko bread crumbs, or need low-carb and gluten-free alternatives, there’s a coating choice that suits your taste. So, go ahead and experiment with these options to take your air fried chicken to new heights of deliciousness!

For a healthier option, try this healthy air fryer chicken recipes. It uses a similar cooking method as the buttermilk air fried chicken, but with lighter ingredients.

Air Frying Techniques for Optimal Results

Master the art of air frying your buttermilk marinated chicken to perfection with these expert tips.

Preheating and Preparing the Air Fryer

To ensure that your air fried chicken turns out crispy and delicious, it is crucial to properly preheat and prepare your air fryer. Start by preheating the air fryer to the recommended temperature of 400°F (200°C). This will help ensure even cooking and crispy results. Preheating typically takes around 3-5 minutes, but be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific guidance.

While the air fryer is preheating, take the time to properly prepare your chicken. After marinating the chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least 2 hours, remove them from the marinade and pat them dry with paper towels. This will help the chicken crisp up better in the air fryer. Additionally, you can season the chicken with your preferred spices and seasoning to enhance the flavor.

Once the air fryer is preheated and the chicken is ready, place the chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Be sure not to overcrowd the basket, as this can lead to uneven cooking. If needed, cook the chicken in batches.

Lastly, lightly spray or brush the chicken with oil. This will help promote browning and create a crispy exterior. Olive oil or vegetable oil are good options for this step. Now, you are ready to start air frying!

Cooking Time and Temperature Recommendations

Cooking time and temperature are crucial factors in achieving perfectly cooked air fried chicken. The cooking time will vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces, as well as the specific air fryer model being used. However, as a general guideline, boneless chicken breasts typically take around 15-20 minutes to cook, while bone-in chicken pieces may require 20-25 minutes.

It is recommended to start with a higher temperature, such as 400°F (200°C), for the first 10 minutes to promote browning and crispiness. Then, reduce the temperature to around 350°F (175°C) for the remaining cooking time to ensure the chicken is cooked through without becoming overly browned or burnt.

It is important to note that these are just general guidelines, and it is always best to consult the specific recipe or the manufacturer’s instructions for your air fryer for accurate cooking time and temperature recommendations. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken, which should be at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.

Ensuring Juicy and Crispy Chicken

To achieve juicy and crispy air fried chicken, there are a few additional tips to keep in mind. First, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, as this can hinder the circulation of hot air and result in uneven cooking. Cook the chicken in a single layer, or in batches if needed.

Next, make sure to flip the chicken halfway through the cooking process. This will help ensure even browning on both sides and promote a crispy texture. Use tongs or a spatula to carefully flip the chicken pieces.

Lastly, allow the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes after removing it from the air fryer. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, resulting in a more flavorful and moist final product. However, be sure to serve the chicken immediately after resting to maintain its crispy exterior.

By following these air frying techniques, you can achieve perfectly crispy and delicious air fried chicken every time. Experiment with different seasonings and spices to customize the flavor to your liking. Enjoy!

If you’re looking for more delicious recipes, check out this air fryer chicken wings recipe. It’s a great way to enjoy crispy and flavorful chicken without the need for deep frying.

Thank you for taking the time to read our article on air fried chicken recipe with buttermilk! We hope you found it helpful and inspiring for your next cooking adventure. Don’t forget to bookmark our page and visit us again later for more delicious recipes, cooking tips, and helpful guides. Happy cooking!

Thank You for Reading!

We hope you enjoyed our air fried chicken recipe with buttermilk. Make sure to try it out and let us know how it turns out for you. Remember to visit us again for more tasty recipes and helpful cooking tips. Happy cooking!

Jump to Recipe