why make this recipe
Cooking a whole chicken in an air fryer is a great idea for several reasons. First, it’s quick and easy, saving you time in the kitchen. The air fryer circulates hot air around the chicken, making the skin wonderfully crispy while keeping the meat juicy and tender. Plus, you use less oil than traditional frying methods, making this dish a healthier choice. Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress!
how to make Air Fryer Whole Chicken
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 1.2–1.5 kg), legs tied
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and tie the legs together with kitchen twine for even cooking.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil with all the spices. Pour over the chicken and rub thoroughly, making sure to coat all sides.
- Set your air fryer to 180°C (356°F) and let it preheat for 3–5 minutes.
- Place the chicken breast-side down in the air fryer basket. Cook at 180°C for 30 minutes.
- Flip the chicken breast-side up and brush with remaining marinade or oil for extra crispiness.
- Continue cooking for another 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) and the skin is golden brown.
- Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving and sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh finish.
how to serve Air Fryer Whole Chicken
Serve your air fryer whole chicken with your choice of sides. Some great options include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. You can also slice the chicken and use it in sandwiches, wraps, or salads for a tasty lunch the next day.
how to store Air Fryer Whole Chicken
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Make sure to consume the leftovers within 3-4 days to ensure freshness. If you have a lot of leftovers, consider shredding the chicken and freezing it for later use. Just place the shredded chicken in a freezer-safe bag and use it within 2-3 months.
tips to make Air Fryer Whole Chicken
- Make sure to pat the chicken completely dry before cooking for the crispiest skin.
- Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste. Adding a bit of cayenne pepper can give it a spicy kick!
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature for perfect doneness.
variation
You can try different flavors by changing the spices. For instance, consider using a mix of citrus zest and herbs, or adding a marinade of your choice before cooking to create a unique taste.
FAQs
Q: Can I cook a frozen chicken in an air fryer?
A: It is recommended to thaw the chicken first for even cooking. A frozen chicken may not cook evenly in an air fryer.
Q: How long does it take to cook a whole chicken in an air fryer?
A: A whole chicken typically takes about 50-55 minutes in an air fryer, depending on its size.
Q: Can I use other oils besides olive oil?
A: Yes, you can use melted butter, vegetable oil, or any other oil you prefer for cooking the chicken.
Air Fryer Whole Chicken
Ingredients
Method
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and tie the legs together with kitchen twine for even cooking.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil with all the spices. Pour over the chicken and rub thoroughly, making sure to coat all sides.
- Set your air fryer to 180°C (356°F) and let it preheat for 3–5 minutes.
- Place the chicken breast-side down in the air fryer basket. Cook at 180°C for 30 minutes.
- Flip the chicken breast-side up and brush with remaining marinade or oil for extra crispiness.
- Continue cooking for another 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) and the skin is golden brown.
- Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving and sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh finish.