Craving the crunch of classic fried chicken without all the excess oil? This crispy air fryer fried chicken recipe delivers all the golden-brown perfection, juicy tenderness, and bold flavor you love — but with a fraction of the oil. Whether you’re a beginner or an air fryer pro, you’ll find this step-by-step guide easy, satisfying, and totally worth saving in your favorites.
🥛 Why This Buttermilk Air Fryer Chicken is a Must-Try
Traditional fried chicken is delicious, but it comes with extra calories and a greasy finish. This buttermilk marinated air fryer chicken keeps the meat moist inside and crunchy outside, using hot circulating air instead of deep oil baths. It’s lighter, faster, and you won’t sacrifice that crave-worthy crust.
- Crispy exterior without deep frying
- Juicy, tender meat thanks to the buttermilk soak
- Uses pantry staples like Old Bay seasoning and flour
- Ready in under 40 minutes from start to finish
- Kid-friendly and perfect for weeknights or meal prep
🔍 Key Ingredients and What Makes Them Work
4 bone-in chicken pieces (skin-on or skinless): Thighs and drumsticks are classic for fried chicken because they stay juicy. Bone-in chicken helps keep flavor locked in.
Buttermilk (1 cup): Essential for tenderizing the meat. The slight acidity breaks down proteins, giving every bite incredible juiciness.
Hot sauce (3 tablespoons): Adds subtle heat and depth of flavor without overwhelming spice.
All-purpose flour (1 cup): The base of the crispy coating.
Old Bay Seasoning (3 tablespoons): A beloved American blend that gives your crust a savory, slightly spicy kick.
Salt & fresh cracked black pepper: Simple yet powerful flavor builders.
Vegetable or canola oil: Lightly misted on the chicken and air fryer basket to help brown and crisp the coating.
🛠️ Step-by-Step: How to Make Air Fryer Fried Chicken
🧂 1. Prep Your Chicken
If you’re using skin-on chicken, trim away extra fat or remove the skin entirely for a lighter meal. Generously season each piece on both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
🥣 2. Marinate in Buttermilk Mixture
In a bowl, whisk together buttermilk and hot sauce until fully combined. Submerge the chicken pieces, ensuring they’re covered well.
- Quick option: Let sit for at least 5–10 minutes.
- For best results: Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. The longer marination creates unbelievably juicy chicken.
🧃 3. Prepare the Coating
Line a small baking sheet with foil or wax paper for easy cleanup. Combine flour and Old Bay seasoning in a large resealable plastic bag and shake well to mix.
🧤 4. Bread Each Piece
Add one piece of marinated chicken to the flour bag. Seal and shake until thoroughly coated, then gently shake off excess. Place it on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat until all pieces are breaded.
🔥 5. Preheat and Arrange
Preheat your air fryer to 390°F for about 5 minutes. Meanwhile, let your coated chicken rest — this helps the breading stick better during cooking.
🛢️ 6. Mist and Cook
Lightly mist the bottom of the air fryer basket with oil spray. Also, spray both sides of each chicken piece before placing them in the basket (they can touch, but don’t stack).
Cook at 390°F for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through if desired and spraying any dry spots to boost crispiness.
🌡️ 7. Check for Doneness
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F. That means it’s safe and perfectly cooked.
🧊 Storing & Reheating Tips
- Storage: Cool leftovers fully, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Best in the air fryer! Heat at 375°F for 4–5 minutes, flipping halfway. Avoid the microwave, which makes breading soggy.
🧑🍳 Expert Tips for Better Homemade Air Fryer Chicken
✅ Don’t skip the buttermilk soak: Even a short marinade helps keep the meat juicy.
✅ Rest after breading: Letting the flour-coated chicken sit for a few minutes helps the crust stick.
✅ Use a food thermometer: Essential to ensure perfect doneness and food safety.
✅ Misting oil strategically: Adds golden color and crunch without excess oil.
🌶️ Variations to Try Next Time
- Swap Old Bay with Cajun seasoning for a spicy Southern-style twist.
- Use panko breadcrumbs mixed with flour for extra crunch.
- Add paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder to customize the flavor profile.
- Try boneless chicken tenders or breasts (adjust cook time slightly).
🍽️ Serving Ideas & Pairings
- Serve with homemade coleslaw or creamy potato salad.
- Pair with hot honey drizzle or classic ranch dip.
- Add pickles and soft rolls for a quick fried chicken sandwich.
🏆 Why Air Fryer Chicken is a Weeknight Hero
- Less mess than deep frying
- Healthier than classic fried chicken
- Fast cooking: around 25 minutes cook time
- Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly
🧮 Nutrition Breakdown (approximate, per serving)
- Calories: 602 kcal
- Protein: 50 g
- Carbohydrates: 56 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 199 mg
- Sodium: 825 mg
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 6 g
- Calcium & Iron: Good sources
