Southern fried chicken is a classic dish that is loved by many people around the world. It is known for its crispy coating and juicy, tender meat. Traditionally, this dish is deep-fried, but nowadays, more and more people are using air fryers to make their fried chicken healthier without sacrificing taste.

So, how long should you cook southern fried chicken in an air fryer? The cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of your chicken pieces, as well as the specific model of your air fryer. However, as a general rule, most recipes recommend cooking southern fried chicken in an air fryer for about 20-25 minutes at a temperature of 400°F (200°C).

It is important to note that air fryers work by circulating hot air around the food, which helps to cook it evenly and achieve that desirable crispy texture. However, they may cook foods faster than traditional methods, so it’s essential to keep an eye on your chicken and adjust the cooking time if needed. You want the chicken to be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

If you prefer a darker and crispier coating, you can also try adding a few additional minutes to the cooking time. Just be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry.

Remember, the cooking time may vary, so it’s always a good idea to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is fully cooked. With a little practice, you’ll be able to find the perfect cooking time for southern fried chicken in your air fryer and enjoy a delicious and healthier version of this beloved dish.

How Long to Cook Southern Fried Chicken in Air Fryer

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When it comes to making southern fried chicken in an air fryer, cooking time is a crucial factor. The air fryer offers a healthier alternative to deep frying, resulting in crispy and delicious chicken with less oil. Here’s how long you should cook your southern fried chicken in an air fryer:

Ingredients:

  • 4 bone-in chicken pieces (thighs or drumsticks)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for added heat)
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
  2. In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
  3. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off.
  4. Coat the chicken piece in the flour mixture, pressing it firmly to ensure an even coating.
  5. Place the coated chicken pieces in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded.
  6. Cook the chicken in the air fryer for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time.
  7. Check the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it is cooked through.
  8. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
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Now you have perfectly cooked southern fried chicken in your air fryer. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Note: Cooking times may vary depending on the size of your chicken pieces and the model of your air fryer. It’s always best to use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to the correct temperature.

Preparation and Seasoning

Before cooking your southern fried chicken in the air fryer, it’s important to properly prepare and season the chicken to ensure maximum flavor and tenderness.

Cleaning the Chicken

Start by cleaning the chicken with cold water, removing any excess fat or feathers. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to help the seasoning adhere better to the meat.

Marinating the Chicken

Marinating the chicken in a buttermilk mixture overnight is a traditional southern method that tenderizes the meat and enhances its flavor. In a bowl, combine buttermilk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Add the chicken to the bowl, making sure it is fully submerged. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.

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Alternatively, if you are short on time, you can marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow some of the flavors to infuse into the meat.

Seasoning the Chicken

Prior to cooking, remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade and allow any excess liquid to drip off. Season the chicken generously with a blend of spices such as salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. For an extra kick, you can also add cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the seasoning mixture. Use your hands to ensure that the seasoning is evenly distributed on all sides of the chicken.

Let the seasoned chicken sit for around 15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat further. This step is optional but will result in a more flavorful end product.

When the chicken is properly prepared and seasoned, it’s ready to be cooked in the air fryer to achieve a crispy outer coating and juicy interior.

Coating and Marinating the Chicken

1. Start by cleaning the chicken pieces under cold running water. Pat them dry using paper towels to remove any excess moisture.

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2. In a bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. Mix well to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.

3. Dip each chicken piece into the flour mixture, making sure to coat it thoroughly. Shake off any excess flour.

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4. After coating, place the chicken pieces in a shallow dish or zip-top bag.

5. Pour buttermilk or a mixture of buttermilk and hot sauce over the coated chicken pieces. Make sure the chicken is completely covered in the marinade.

6. Cover the dish or seal the bag and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight. This process helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.

7. Before cooking, remove the chicken from the marinade and allow any excess liquid to drip off.

8. Now the chicken is ready to be air-fried to perfection!

Preheating the Air Fryer

Before you start cooking your southern fried chicken in the air fryer, it’s important to preheat the appliance. This will help ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and gets that crispy fried texture you love.

To preheat your air fryer, follow these steps:

1. Plug in the air fryer

Make sure the air fryer is plugged into a power source.

2. Set the temperature

Set the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and preheat the air fryer for about 5 minutes. This will allow the appliance to reach the desired cooking temperature.

3. Let it run

Once the air fryer has reached the desired temperature, let it run for a few minutes to ensure that it is properly heated throughout.

By preheating your air fryer, you create an optimal cooking environment for your southern fried chicken, resulting in a deliciously crispy and evenly cooked meal.

Cooking Time and Temperature

When cooking southern fried chicken in an air fryer, it’s important to get the right cooking time and temperature to achieve crispy and delicious results. Here are some general guidelines:

Temperature

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature will help to cook the chicken quickly and evenly, while also ensuring that it gets nice and crispy.

Cooking Time

The cooking time for southern fried chicken in an air fryer can vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces. As a general rule of thumb, you should cook the chicken for 20-25 minutes.

However, it’s always a good idea to check the chicken for doneness before serving. To do this, you can use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).

If the chicken is not fully cooked after the initial cooking time, you can continue to cook it for an additional 5 minutes and then check again.

Keep in mind that cooking times can vary depending on the model and brand of your air fryer, so it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Once the chicken is cooked to perfection, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help to seal in the juices and ensure that the chicken stays moist and flavorful.

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Now that you know the ideal cooking time and temperature, you can confidently whip up a batch of mouthwatering southern fried chicken in your air fryer!

Checking for Doneness

It is important to ensure that your southern fried chicken is cooked thoroughly before serving. This will guarantee that it is safe to eat and has reached the desired level of crispiness.

Visual Check

You can start by visually inspecting the chicken. The crust should have a golden brown color and appear crispy. If it looks pale or undercooked, it may need more time in the air fryer.

Internal Temperature

Using a meat thermometer, insert it into the thickest part of the chicken without touching the bone. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C) for chicken to be considered safe to eat. If it hasn’t reached this temperature, continue cooking for a few more minutes and check again.

Remember, the cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces. It is always better to slightly overcook the chicken than to undercook it, as this can lead to foodborne illnesses.

Once the chicken is cooked and reaches the right temperature, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help the juices redistribute and make the chicken even more tender and delicious.

Q&A

What is the recommended cooking time for southern fried chicken in an air fryer?

The recommended cooking time for southern fried chicken in an air fryer is typically around 20-25 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of the pieces.

How do I know if the chicken is cooked through in an air fryer?

You can check if the chicken is cooked through by using a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Additionally, the chicken should be golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Can I use frozen chicken in an air fryer?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken in an air fryer. However, the cooking time will be longer, typically around 30-35 minutes, to ensure the chicken is cooked through.

Should I preheat my air fryer before cooking southern fried chicken?

Yes, it is recommended to preheat your air fryer before cooking. Preheating allows for even cooking and helps to achieve a crispy exterior on the chicken.

Can I use a marinade or seasoning on the chicken before air frying?

Yes, you can marinate or season the chicken before air frying. This can enhance the flavor and juiciness of the chicken. Just be sure to pat the chicken dry before coating it in flour to achieve a crispy crust.