Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite way to cook chicken: airfryer spatchcocked chicken! It’s a game changer, trust me! The first time I made it, I couldn’t believe how juicy and crispy the skin turned out. Spatchcocking is just a fancy way of saying you flatten the chicken, which helps it cook evenly and quickly. I love how the air fryer gives that perfect golden-brown crust while keeping the meat succulent and tender inside. Seriously, you won’t want to go back to roasting it any other way after this. It’s so easy and oh-so-delicious!

Ingredients List

1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs) – Look for a fresh chicken for the best flavor, but frozen will work too. Just remember to thaw it completely in the fridge beforehand.
2 tablespoons olive oil – This helps the skin crisp up beautifully and adds a lovely depth of flavor. Extra virgin is my go-to!
1 tablespoon paprika – This gives the chicken that gorgeous color and a hint of smokiness. You can use sweet or smoked paprika based on your preference.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – A must-have for that savory kick. Fresh garlic can work too, but I find the powder blends in perfectly.
1 teaspoon onion powder – This adds a subtle sweetness and depth; it’s like a flavor hug for the chicken!
1 teaspoon salt – Essential for bringing out all the flavors. Feel free to adjust based on your taste or dietary needs!
1/2 teaspoon black pepper – A little spice to balance out the richness of the chicken.
1 lemon, juiced – Fresh lemon juice adds brightness and helps to tenderize the meat. Don’t skip this part; it really elevates the dish!

How to Prepare the Airfryer Spatchcocked Chicken

Alright, let’s get to the good stuff! Here’s how to prepare your airfryer spatchcocked chicken step by step. It’s easier than you might think, and I promise, you’ll feel like a pro in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (182°C). This step is crucial for that crispy skin! While it’s heating up, you can get your chicken ready.
Spatchcock the chicken by carefully removing the backbone with kitchen shears or a sharp knife. It sounds intimidating, but just take your time—it’s like giving the chicken a little makeover!
Flatten the chicken by pressing down firmly on the breastbone. You should hear a satisfying crack; that’s a good sign! This helps it cook evenly.
Make the seasoning mixture by combining olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and lemon juice in a bowl. Give it a good stir until it’s all mixed up.
Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get under the skin for maximum flavor. It’s like a spa day for your chicken!
Place the chicken in the air fryer basket, skin side up. Make sure there’s enough space around it for the air to circulate.
Cook for 30-35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This is where the magic happens—your kitchen will smell incredible!
Let it rest for 10 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, so your chicken stays juicy and tender.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Juicy and Flavorful: The air fryer locks in the moisture, making every bite succulent and packed with flavor, thanks to that delicious seasoning blend!
Crispy Skin: You won’t believe how crispy the skin turns out! It’s like a dream come true for anyone who loves that crunchy texture.
Quick Cooking Time: Spatchcocking allows the chicken to cook faster and more evenly, reducing the cook time to just 30-35 minutes!
Easy Cleanup: The air fryer basket is a breeze to clean, making this recipe perfect for a weeknight dinner without the hassle.
Versatile Leftovers: Any leftovers can be easily transformed into salads, sandwiches, or even chicken tacos the next day—yum!
Healthier Option: With less oil needed, you get that crispy delight without the extra calories from traditional frying methods.

Tips for Success

Now that you’re ready to make your airfryer spatchcocked chicken, here are some tried-and-true tips to ensure everything turns out perfectly. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make all the difference!

Use Sharp Kitchen Shears: When spatchcocking, a good pair of sharp kitchen shears makes it so much easier to cut through the backbone. If you’re struggling, take your time—no need to rush!
Pat the Chicken Dry: Before seasoning, pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps achieve that crispy skin by removing excess moisture. A little prep goes a long way!
Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking is key! It gives the juices time to redistribute, making each bite more flavorful and juicy.
Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). It’s the most reliable way to know it’s perfectly cooked!
Adjust Seasoning to Your Taste: Feel free to tweak the spices based on what you like! Love heat? Add some cayenne pepper. Want to keep it classic? Stick to the basics!
Keep an Eye on Cooking Time: Air fryers can vary in how they cook, so check your chicken a few minutes before the 30-minute mark to avoid overcooking.
Experiment with Marinades: If you’re feeling adventurous, try marinating the chicken for a few hours before cooking. It adds another layer of flavor that’s just divine!

With these tips, you’re all set to make the most delicious airfryer spatchcocked chicken. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information Section

When it comes to nutrition, it’s important to remember that the values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. So, while I’ve put together some typical nutritional values for this airfryer spatchcocked chicken, they’re not set in stone!

Serving Size: 1/4 chicken
Calories: 350
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 0g
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 600mg
Cholesterol: 120mg

As you can see, this recipe is not only delicious but also a great source of protein! Just keep in mind these numbers are approximate, so adjust based on your preferences and dietary needs. Happy cooking and enjoy your tasty creation!

FAQ Section

Can I use a frozen chicken for airfryer spatchcocked chicken?
You can absolutely use a frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge before spatchcocking. It’ll cook more evenly that way, and you won’t have any cold spots!

What if I don’t have kitchen shears to spatchcock the chicken?
No worries! A sharp chef’s knife will do the trick. Just take your time and be careful while cutting along the backbone. It’s totally doable!

How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?
The best way to check is to use a meat thermometer. You want the internal temperature to reach 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is safe to eat and perfectly cooked!

Can I season the chicken the night before?
Yes! If you want to get a head start, feel free to season the chicken the night before and let it sit in the fridge. This will give the flavors even more time to penetrate the meat!

What are some good sides to serve with airfryer spatchcocked chicken?
I love pairing it with roasted veggies, a fresh salad, or even some creamy mashed potatoes. You really can’t go wrong—just think of what you love!

Can I reheat leftover chicken in the air fryer?
Absolutely! Reheating in the air fryer is perfect because it’ll crisp up the skin again. Just pop it in at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, and you’re good to go!

Is there a way to make this recipe low-sodium?
You can definitely reduce the salt in the seasoning mix. Just remember to taste as you go, and you might even find that you love it with less salt!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made this delicious airfryer spatchcocked chicken, and now you’ve got some leftovers—lucky you! Storing and reheating them correctly will keep your chicken just as juicy and flavorful as when it first came out of the air fryer. Here’s how I do it:

First, let the chicken cool down to room temperature before storing. Once it’s cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. This helps lock in moisture and keeps the chicken fresh. If you’ve got a whole half left, that’s perfectly fine! Just make sure it’s tightly sealed to prevent any air from sneaking in.

You can keep the chicken in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it! Just wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It should last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Now, when it comes to reheating, I recommend using the air fryer again for the best results. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and pop the chicken in for about 5-10 minutes, depending on how much you have. This will help revive that lovely crispy skin while warming the meat through. Alternatively, you can use the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a similar effect, but it might take a bit longer.

And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your airfryer spatchcocked chicken again and again. Yum!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got this mouthwatering airfryer spatchcocked chicken ready, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it! Trust me, the right sides can elevate your meal to the next level. Here are some of my favorite pairings:

Roasted Vegetables: A colorful mix of roasted carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini tossed in a bit of olive oil and herbs complements the chicken beautifully. Their sweetness balances the savory flavors perfectly!
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic are a classic pairing. They soak up the delicious juices from the chicken, making every bite heavenly!
Fresh Salad: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a nice crunch and brightness to the meal. It’s a great way to balance out the richness of the chicken.
Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy coleslaw can add a delightful crunch and a bit of acidity to cut through the richness of the chicken. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up!
Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet, tender baked sweet potatoes drizzled with a little honey or maple syrup bring a lovely contrast to the savory chicken. They’re so comforting and delicious!
Grilled Corn on the Cob: If it’s summer, you can’t go wrong with fresh, grilled corn slathered in butter and sprinkled with salt. It’s the perfect outdoor companion to your chicken feast!

Feel free to mix and match these suggestions based on your cravings. The beauty of this airfryer spatchcocked chicken is its versatility, so let your taste buds lead the way! Enjoy your meal!

Airfryer Spatchcocked Chicken: 7 Juicy Secrets Unveiled

Author: Emma Schweitzer
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

A flavorful airfryer spatchcocked chicken that is juicy and crispy.

Ingredients

Scale

1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 lemon, juiced

Instructions

Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (182°C).
Spatchcock the chicken by removing the backbone.
Flatten the chicken by pressing down on the breastbone.
In a bowl, mix olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
Rub the mixture all over the chicken.
Place the chicken in the air fryer, skin side up.
Cook for 30-35 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Notes

Adjust seasoning to taste.
Serve with your favorite sides.
Store leftovers in an airtight container.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 chicken
Calories: 350
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 0g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: airfryer spatchcocked chicken