Are you craving that classic, crispy fried chicken but looking for a healthier, quicker way to make it? Then you've come to the right place! This recipe brings the magic of Paula Deen's Southern fried chicken to your kitchen, all thanks to the wonders of the air fryer. Forget greasy messes and long cooking times; this recipe delivers juicy, flavorful chicken with a satisfyingly crunchy crust in a fraction of the time. It's a perfect example of delicious and healthy eating, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for the air fryer basket)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully coated in the buttermilk mixture. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight, for maximum flavor.
Breading and Frying:
- In a separate shallow dish, combine the flour and cornmeal.
- Remove the chicken from the buttermilk mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure it adheres well.
- Lightly spray your air fryer basket with vegetable oil. Arrange the breaded chicken pieces in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. Work in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
Air Frying to Perfection:
- Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model and the size of the chicken pieces.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this delicious air fryer fried chicken hot with your favorite sides. Classic Southern accompaniments like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or biscuits perfectly complement this dish.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket: Overcrowding will prevent proper air circulation and result in uneven cooking.
- Flip halfway through: Flipping the chicken ensures even browning and crisping on all sides.
- Use a meat thermometer: The best way to ensure your chicken is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer and the size of your chicken pieces. Keep an eye on your chicken and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the buttermilk marinade for a spicy kick.
- Herbed Chicken: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano into the flour mixture for an aromatic twist.
- Lemon Pepper Chicken: Replace the paprika with lemon pepper seasoning for a bright and zesty flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 Protein: Approximately 25g Fat: Approximately 15g Carbohydrates: Approximately 10g
This recipe offers a healthier and quicker alternative to traditional fried chicken, maintaining all the delicious flavor while significantly reducing the fat and cooking time. It’s a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and homemade cooking endeavors. Enjoy!