Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the magic of airfryer roasted chicken! Seriously, if you haven’t tried making chicken this way yet, you’re in for a treat. The beauty of using an air fryer is that it gives you that oh-so-satisfying crispy skin on the outside while keeping the meat juicy and tender on the inside. It’s like having a rotisserie chicken without the wait, and trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this one!
Whenever I make this dish, the aroma fills my kitchen, and I can hardly wait for it to finish cooking. My family gathers around, their mouths watering in anticipation, and let me tell you, it never lasts long on the table! You can whip it up in about an hour and a half, and it’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or even meal prep for the week. Plus, it’s so easy that even my kids love helping out! So, let’s dive into how to make the best airfryer roasted chicken ever!
Ingredients List
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs): Look for a fresh chicken, preferably organic if you can find it. This will be the star of your dish, so you want it to be top-notch!
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: This helps the skin get that gorgeous golden color and crispy texture. Extra virgin is my go-to for the best flavor!
- 1 tablespoon salt: Just the right amount to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken. Don’t be shy with this; it really makes a difference!
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly cracked is always best! It adds a nice kick that balances out the richness of the chicken.
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder: For that irresistible garlic flavor—it’s a must! If you love garlic as much as I do, you might even want to add a little more.
- 1 tablespoon onion powder: This adds a depth of flavor that perfectly complements the garlic. It’s like a flavor hug for the chicken!
- 1 teaspoon paprika: This gives the chicken a beautiful color and a subtle smokiness that elevates the whole dish.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: A little herb magic! Thyme pairs wonderfully with chicken and brings a lovely aroma.
How to Prepare Airfryer Roasted Chicken
Prepping the Chicken
Alright, let’s get that chicken ready for its moment in the spotlight! First things first, you’ll want to preheat your air fryer to 360°F (182°C). This step is key for achieving that crispy skin we all crave!
While that’s heating up, grab your whole chicken and give it a good pat dry with some paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up beautifully, so don’t skip this step! Once it’s nice and dry, drizzle the olive oil all over your chicken, making sure to coat it evenly. I like to use my hands for this, really massaging that oil in. It feels good, and it ensures every bit of the skin gets that golden treatment!
Now it’s time to season! Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried thyme all over the chicken. Don’t be shy! Rub those spices in well, getting into all the nooks and crannies. You want every bite to be bursting with flavor!
Cooking Process
With your chicken prepped and seasoned, carefully place it in the air fryer basket. Make sure it fits comfortably; you want the hot air to circulate around it for even cooking.
Now, close that air fryer and set your timer for 60-70 minutes. Cooking times can vary a bit based on the size of your chicken, so it’s a good idea to check for doneness around the 60-minute mark. You can do this by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh—you’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Trust me, this little gadget is a game changer!
Once your chicken is beautifully golden and cooked through, take it out of the air fryer and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period is crucial; it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every slice is juicy and tender. I know it’s hard to wait, but I promise it’s worth it!
Tips for Success
Now that you’re ready to tackle the airfryer roasted chicken, let me share some of my favorite tips to ensure you absolutely nail it! These little nuggets of wisdom can make a world of difference, trust me!
- Don’t skip the drying step: Seriously, patting your chicken dry is key to getting that crispy skin. If it’s wet, it just won’t crisp up as beautifully.
- Use a meat thermometer: I can’t stress this enough! It takes all the guesswork out of cooking. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
- Let it rest: After cooking, resist the urge to dig right in! Letting the chicken rest for about 10 minutes helps keep the meat juicy. All the good stuff stays inside!
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to get creative! If you’re in the mood for something zesty, add some lemon zest or even a dash of cayenne for a little heat. Your chicken, your rules!
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: Make sure there’s enough space around the chicken for the air to circulate. If it’s too cramped, it won’t cook evenly, and we definitely want that crispy perfection!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to impress! Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk numbers! While I always say the best part of cooking is the love you put into it, it’s good to know what you’re serving up! Here’s a typical breakdown of the nutritional values for a serving of this airfryer roasted chicken, which is about a quarter of the whole bird:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 750mg
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 35g
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on the size of your chicken and how you season it. But knowing this can help you balance your meals throughout the day. Enjoy your delicious, nutritious airfryer roasted chicken!
FAQ Section
Can I cook a frozen chicken in the air fryer?
While it’s technically possible, I highly recommend thawing your chicken first for the best results. Cooking a frozen chicken can lead to uneven cooking, and who wants a rubbery bite? Thaw it in the fridge overnight, and you’ll be golden!
What if I don’t have paprika?
No worries at all! You can substitute it with a little cayenne for some heat or even just skip it altogether. Your chicken will still be delicious with all the other spices! Get creative and use what you have!
How do I know when my chicken is fully cooked?
The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Stick it into the thickest part of the thigh, and you’re looking for a temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, make sure the juices run clear when you cut into it.
Can I use this recipe for chicken pieces instead of a whole chicken?
Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. Chicken pieces will cook faster, so check them for doneness around the 30-40 minute mark, depending on the size. You’ll still get that crispy goodness!
What can I do with leftover chicken?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! You can shred it for tacos, toss it in a salad, or even make a delicious chicken soup. Just store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and you’ll have tasty meals ready to go!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can get your chicken ready to roast in no time!
- Easy Cleanup: The air fryer basket is a breeze to clean, making this a hassle-free cooking experience.
- Delicious Results: Enjoy crispy, golden skin and juicy meat that will have everyone asking for seconds!
- Family-Friendly: This recipe is not only easy but also a hit with kids and adults alike—everyone loves perfectly roasted chicken!
- Healthy and Nutritious: With no added fats from frying, this method keeps your meal light and packed with protein!
- Versatile: Pair it with your favorite sides or adapt the seasoning to match your mood—there’s so much room for creativity!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your delicious airfryer roasted chicken ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it! The right sides can really elevate your meal and make it a feast to remember. Here are some of my favorite pairings that complement the juicy chicken perfectly:
- Roasted Vegetables: A colorful mix of seasonal veggies like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini, lightly seasoned and roasted until tender. The sweetness of the roasted veggies pairs beautifully with the savory chicken.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic are a classic side that never disappoints! They soak up the delicious juices from the chicken, making every bite a flavor explosion.
- Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch to your meal. It’s a light contrast to the rich chicken!
- Quinoa or Rice: Fluffy quinoa or rice pilaf can be a great base. You can cook them in chicken broth for extra flavor, and they make a nice canvas for any leftover chicken.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw offers a delightful crunch and a bit of zing. It’s a great way to add some freshness to your plate!
- Biscuits or Bread: Warm, fluffy biscuits or a crusty loaf of bread are perfect for sopping up all those tasty juices. Trust me, you won’t want to waste a drop!
Mix and match these sides according to what your family loves, and you can create a well-rounded meal that everyone will enjoy. Happy feasting!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about what to do with any leftovers from your amazing airfryer roasted chicken! First off, if you have any chicken left (which is a big if, because it’s so delicious!), you’ll want to store it properly to keep that flavor and juiciness intact.
To store your leftovers, let the chicken cool down to room temperature, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. This will help keep it moist and prevent it from drying out in the fridge. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just make sure to label it with the date so you know when it was cooked!
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze your leftover chicken! Just make sure to wrap it well to avoid freezer burn. It should be good for about 2-3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Now for reheating, I’ve found the best way to bring back that crispy skin is to pop the chicken back in the air fryer! Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and heat the chicken for about 10-15 minutes, checking it to make sure it’s warmed through. This will help revive that lovely texture we all love!
If you don’t have an air fryer available, you can also reheat it in the oven. Just place the chicken on a baking sheet, cover it loosely with foil to keep it from drying out, and heat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through.
And there you have it! With these simple storing and reheating tips, you can enjoy your airfryer roasted chicken long after it’s been cooked. Happy eating!
Print
Airfryer Roasted Chicken: 7 Steps to Juicy Perfection
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious airfryer roasted chicken that is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 4–5 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (182°C).
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- Rub the olive oil all over the chicken.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and thyme.
- Place the chicken in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 60-70 minutes, checking for doneness.
- Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning according to your taste.
- Cooking time may vary based on the size of the chicken.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 chicken
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: airfryer roasted chicken, crispy chicken, easy chicken recipe