KFC-Style Chicken in the Air Fryer
Craving crispy KFC-style chicken without deep frying? This air fryer KFC chicken recipe delivers juicy, tender meat with a crunchy, well-seasoned coating—using far less oil. It’s a healthier homemade version inspired by the famous flavors everyone loves, and it’s surprisingly easy to make at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Extra crispy without deep frying
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Juicy, flavorful chicken
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Classic KFC-style seasoning
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Quick and easy in the air fryer
Ingredients (Serves 4)
Chicken
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2 lbs (900 g) chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, or breasts)
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
Buttermilk Marinade
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1½ cups buttermilk
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1 egg
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
Crispy Coating (KFC-Style)
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1½ cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1 teaspoon white pepper
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1 teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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½ teaspoon dried thyme
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½ teaspoon dried basil
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½ teaspoon dried oregano
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½ teaspoon celery salt
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½ teaspoon ground ginger
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½ teaspoon mustard powder
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
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In a bowl, whisk buttermilk, egg, paprika, and garlic powder.
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Season chicken lightly with salt and pepper.
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Submerge chicken in marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight for best flavor).
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
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In a large bowl, mix flour and all seasonings thoroughly.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
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Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off.
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Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour, pressing firmly to create a thick coating.
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Place coated chicken on a rack and let rest 10 minutes (this helps crispiness).
Step 4: Air Fry
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Preheat air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 5 minutes.
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Lightly spray air fryer basket with oil.
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Arrange chicken in a single layer (do not overcrowd).
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Spray tops of chicken lightly with oil.
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Air fry for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Extra Crispy Tip
For extra crunch, spray chicken with oil again during the last 5 minutes or double-dip chicken in flour after resting.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your air fryer KFC-style chicken with:
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Mashed potatoes and gravy
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Coleslaw
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Biscuits
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Corn on the cob
Tips for Best Results
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Use bone-in chicken for juicier results
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Do not skip the oil spray—it’s key for crispiness
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Avoid stacking chicken in the basket
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Let chicken rest 5 minutes before serving
Storage & Reheating
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Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days
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Reheat in air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness
Final Thoughts
This air fryer KFC-style chicken gives you the iconic crispy coating and juicy interior without deep frying. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, or anytime you want fast-food flavor made healthier at home.