Name: Air Fryer Whole Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken Whole Chicken (about 3-4 lbs); 1 tbsp Olive Oil; 1 tsp Salt; 0.5 tsp Black Pepper; 1 tsp Paprika

What is a game changer? Remember how we used to spend ages roasting a whole chicken in the oven, constantly checking the temperature. Is it possible to cook a chicken if it is cooked through? Now that the days are gone, we have a new beginning. What is the easiest way to cook a whole chicken in an air fryer? What are some of the best crispy chicken skins? It’s faster than oven-roasting, and honestly, the results are just a “chefs kiss” If you love the convenience of a rotisserie chicken but want something even fresher and more flavorful, then you should try this recipe. What is your answer? If you try something new, you’ll never go back!

What is an Air Fryer Whole Chicken?

Think of air fryer whole chicken as your favorite roast chicken, but turbocharged! What is essentially a whole chicken, seasoned to perfection, and cooked in an air fryer? The air fryer’s circulating hot air creates an environment that’ll be perfect for achieving that crispy, crispy texture. What does the golden brown skin look like? What’s like a rotisserie chicken but made in your own kitchen? What seasonings do you love? This one is a lifesaver on busy weeknights because it’s faster than traditional roasting. Clean-up is a breeze. What are leftovers?

Why you’ll love this recipe?

What are some good reasons to eat this air fryer whole chicken?Flavor Explosion:The combination of herbs and spices creates a flavor that’s just out of this world. I use a blend of garlic powder, thyme, and rosemary, but feel free to get creative! The spices penetrate the skin and infuse the meat with flavor.Ridiculously EasyIs this recipe easy to make? What are some good ways to cook chicken in an air fryer? I always tell my friends that if they can make toast, can they make this chicken?Budget FriendlyIs it cheaper to buy a whole chicken than individual pieces? What is a good recipe to feed your family on – budget? Can you use leftover chicken carcass to make a delicious chicken broth? I’ve been known to save a few dollars here and there when using this recipe instead of ordering.Super Versatile:Can you serve this chicken with almost anything? What are the possibilities for roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, salad…? What are leftovers? Can you make chicken sandwiches, chicken tacos, or any combination of them? What is a good chicken recipe? What I love about this is that it’s so much faster than roasting in the oven. On busy weeknights, that’s a huge win! I also think the skin gets crispier in the air fryer, which is a major bonus. Is it the same chicken as my grandma used to make?

How do I make an air fryer for chicken?

Quick Overview

How do I make an air fryer whole chicken? How do you prepare a chicken? You’ll start by prepping it, rubbing it with herbs and spices. If you’re using an air fryer, then place it in your fry pan. The air fryer will work its magic, circulating hot air around the chicken to create crispy skin. What are some of the best recipes for I’ve always been skeptical of cooking a whole chicken in an air fryer, but trust me, this method is effective. What are some of the best things that work like

Ingredients

For the Air Fryer Whole Chicken: For a whole chicken:
• 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), giblets removed: Make sure your chicken is fully thawed before you start. What are the best ways to get crispy skin? I prefer organic, free-range chicken when I can find it. • 2 tablespoons olive oil: How do spices adhere to chicken skin? Can you use melted butter or avocado oil? Garlic powder adds a delicious flavor to any dish. I like to use a good quality garlic powder for the best results. • 1 tablespoon paprika: 1 teaspoon salt. Paprika adds color and a hint of smokiness. Smoked is also delicious! • 1 teaspoon dried thyme, adds a subtle earthy flavor. What is the best way to use fresh thyme in your kitchen? Rosemary adds a fragrant, piney flavor. Fresh rosemary is also good. • 1/2 teaspoon salt: Salt enhances all the flavors and helps to season the chicken. I use kosher salt. • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Black pepper adds a little spice. What is the best way to ground black pepper?

What are the steps for

Step 1: Pat the Chicken Dry

Use paper towels to thoroughly pat the chicken dry, inside and out. What is the best way to get crispy skin? I usually use a whole roll of paper towels. Make sure to get in all the nooks and crannies.

Step 2: Mix the Spices

In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Set aside. What is your flavor bomb? If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

How do you rub the spice mixture over the chicken? Make sure to get it under the skin as well. How do you cook chicken? I like to use my hands to really massage the spices into the chicken. Don’t be afraid to get messy!

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). This is important for even cooking. Some air fryers don’t require preheating, so check your manufacturer’s instructions. I always preheat mine, just to be safe.

Step 5: Air Fry the Chicken

Place the chicken breast side up in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part. What is the part of the thigh? What is the exact cooking time of a chicken depending on its size and air fryer. I always use a meat thermometer to make sure it’s cooked through. Halfway through, flip the chicken carefully to ensure even browning.

Step 6: Rest the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken. I usually cover it loosely with foil while it’s resting.

Step 7: Carve and Serve

How does one carve chicken and serve immediately?

What should I serve it with?

This air fryer whole chicken is incredibly versatile, and it pairs well with so many different side dishes. What are some of my favorite songs?What is a classic dinner? Roasted vegetables (like carrots, potatoes, and broccoli) and mashed potatoes are always a winner. Add a side of gravy for extra flavor!
For a Lighter Meal:What is a good vinaigrette dressing?For a Potluck: Bring the whole chicken to a potluck and let everyone carve their own piece. Serve with a variety of sides, like coleslaw, potato salad, and corn on the cob.
For Leftovers:What are some of the best ways to use chicken in a sandwich?

My family loves when I make this with roasted root vegetables. What’s a hearty meal to serve on cold nights? What are some good ways to make chicken salad sandwiches the next day?

How do you perfect an air fryer for chicken?

How do I take my air fryer whole chicken to the next level?How do you pat a chicken dry?I know I mentioned this before, but it’s worth repeating! How do I get crispy skin on a chicken? The drier the chicken, the crispier the skin will be. Trust me on this one.Don’t overcrowd the air fryer.Make sure your air fryer basket isn’t too crowded. If the chicken is too big for an air fryer, cut it in half before cooking. Overcrowding will prevent the air from circulating properly, resulting in uneven cooking and less air circulation.What is a meat thermometer?How do I check if my chicken is cooked through with a meat thermometer? Thermometer: Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, and make sure it reaches 165°F (74°C).Let It Rest: Don’t skip the resting period! Letting the chicken rest allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken. I know it’s tempting to dig in right away, but trust me, it’s worth the wait.
Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your seasonings! Try different combinations of herbs and spices to find your favorite flavor profile. I’ve tried everything from lemon pepper to Cajun seasoning, and they all taste amazing! This is where you can really make it your own. I once tried a honey-garlic marinade that everyone loved!

I’ve learned these tips the hard way over the years. I remember one time I didn’t pat the chicken dry enough, and the skin was soggy. It was still delicious, but not as good as it could have been! And another time, I didn’t let it rest long enough, and the chicken was a little dry. Now I always follow these tips, and my air fryer whole chicken is always perfect!

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have any leftover air fryer whole chicken (which is rare!), here’s how to store it:
Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving cooked chicken at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Bacteria can grow quickly at room temperature.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cool it down completely before storing it.
Freezer Instructions: You can also freeze cooked chicken for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Reheating: To reheat the chicken, you can use the microwave, oven, or air fryer. If using the microwave, heat it in short intervals until it’s warmed through. If using the oven or air fryer, heat it at 350°F (175°C) until it’s warmed through. Adding a little broth can help keep it moist.

I usually shred the leftover chicken and use it in sandwiches or salads. It’s a great way to use up the leftovers and create a new meal! Sometimes, I’ll even make a quick chicken pot pie with the leftovers. It’s so easy and delicious!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a frozen chicken?

No, it’s important to fully thaw the chicken before cooking it in the air fryer. A frozen chicken won’t cook evenly and may not reach a safe internal temperature.

My air fryer is small, can I still make this?

You may need to cut the chicken in half to fit it in your air fryer. Alternatively, you can use a smaller chicken.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The best way to tell if the chicken is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, and make sure it reaches 165°F (74°C).

The skin is browning too quickly, what should I do?

If the skin is browning too quickly, you can loosely cover the chicken with foil. This will help to prevent it from burning.

Can I add vegetables to the air fryer with the chicken?

Yes, you can add vegetables to the air fryer with the chicken. Just make sure to add them about halfway through the cooking time, so they don’t get overcooked. Root vegetables like potatoes and carrots work well.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, my friends! The easiest, crispiest air fryer whole chicken recipe you’ll ever make. I truly believe that this recipe is a game-changer. It’s so simple, so flavorful, and so versatile. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, and potlucks. And the leftovers are amazing! If you’re looking for a new way to cook chicken, I highly recommend giving this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed! If you liked this recipe, you may also enjoy my recipes for air fryer chicken wings, roasted chicken, or chicken pot pie. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family!

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