Air Fryer Whole Chicken

Why Air Frying a Whole Chicken is a Game Changer

If you’re looking for a hassle-free dinner option that guarantees mouthwatering results, cooking a whole chicken in your air fryer is the way to go. This method not only yields a succulent bird but also offers a deliciously crispy skin that elevates your meal to new heights. Air frying is incredibly straightforward, making it a staple in my kitchen for busy weeknights or special occasions.

The Benefits of Air Frying Chicken

Roasting a chicken in the oven can be a lengthy process, but with an air fryer, you can achieve perfectly cooked chicken in a fraction of the time. The air fryer circulates hot air, which cooks the chicken evenly and locks in moisture. As a bonus, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing pots and pans.

Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor

One of the best parts about this recipe is its simplicity. You’ll only need three key ingredients: a whole chicken, oil, and your favorite seasoning blend. This means you can whip up a delectable dinner without a long shopping list or complicated preparation.

Essential Ingredients

Whole Chicken: Look for a bird weighing between 3 to 4 pounds. This size is ideal for fitting into the air fryer while still providing generous portions.
Oil: A drizzle of olive oil works wonders for achieving that crispy skin and ensuring your seasonings adhere perfectly. Alternatively, you can use cooking spray for a lighter option.
Seasoning: Don’t skimp on flavor! A blend of salt, black pepper, paprika, dried thyme, and garlic powder is fantastic. Feel free to customize with your own favorite spices like onion powder, dried basil, lemon zest, or rosemary for a personal touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these three easy steps to create a succulent air-fried chicken:

Prepare Your Chicken: Start by inspecting the cavity of the chicken to remove any giblets, which you can save for gravy if you’d like. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to help the skin crisp up beautifully.
Season the Bird: Coat the chicken with olive oil, ensuring every surface is covered. Generously sprinkle your chosen seasoning all over, making sure to get under the skin for maximum flavor.
Air Fry to Perfection: Place the chicken breast-side down in the air fryer basket. Set the temperature to 350°F and let it cook. After about 30 minutes, flip the chicken and continue cooking for another 20 to 30 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F.

Pro Tips for Success

If your chicken is tied with string, consider untieing it to allow for more even cooking, especially if it’s closer to 4 pounds.
Cook the chicken breast-side down initially for a juicier result, then flip to achieve that sought-after crispy skin.
Check the internal temperature early to avoid overcooking and drying out the meat.

Serving Suggestions

Once your chicken is beautifully cooked, let it rest for about 10 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful meal. Pair it with roasted sweet potatoes or glazed carrots, and a fresh salad to complete your dining experience.

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover chicken, simply remove the meat from the carcass and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, you can freeze the meat in a freezer bag for up to three months. Don’t forget to save the carcass for making delicious broth!

Reheating Tips

To reheat your chicken, pop it in the microwave for a quick meal. Enhance the flavors with a sprinkle of salt and pepper, or whip up a quick gravy to drizzle over the top for an extra treat.

The air fryer is the ideal appliance for cooking a whole roasted chicken that’s juicy and flavorful every time.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Resting Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

3 ½ pounds whole chicken
1 tablespoon olive oil
Chicken seasoning (or 1 tablespoon of your favorite prepared chicken seasoning)
1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon black pepper
⅙ teaspoon dried thyme leaves

Instructions

Ensure the cavity of the chicken is empty and pat the skin dry with a paper towel.
Rub the skin with olive oil and sprinkle with your seasoning mixture.
Place the chicken breast-side down in the air fryer basket. Set the air fryer to 350°F and cook for 30 minutes.
Flip the chicken over and continue cooking for another 20 to 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Once done, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Nutrition Information

Serving Size: ¼ of a whole chicken
Calories: 444
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 36g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 143mg
Sodium: 134mg
Potassium: 360mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Vitamin A: 293 IU
Vitamin C: 3mg
Calcium: 31mg
Iron: 2mg