KFC Copycat Air Fryer Fried Chicken
Make crispy, golden KFC-style fried chicken at home using your air fryer. Buttermilk soaked and perfectly seasoned for ultimate flavor!
Ingredients
- 10 chicken drumsticks or thighs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ⅔ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon thyme
- ½ teaspoon basil
- ⅓ teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon celery salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried mustard
- 4 teaspoons paprika
- 2 teaspoons garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 3 teaspoons white pepper
- 1 tablespoon baking powder optional, for extra crispiness
Instructions
Step 1: Soak the Chicken
- Place chicken drumsticks or thighs in a bowl and cover with buttermilk. Cover and refrigerate for at least 12 hours or overnight for best results.
Step 2: Prep the Coating
- In one bowl, beat the eggs. In a second bowl, mix together the flour, spices, and optional baking powder until well blended.
Step 3: Dredge the Chicken
- Set an oven-safe cooling rack over a baking sheet for easy coating.
- Remove one piece of chicken from the buttermilk, shaking off excess.
- Dredge in the flour mixture, then dip in the beaten eggs, then dredge again in the flour.
- Place on the cooling rack and repeat for all pieces.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Set your air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Place a parchment paper round in the bottom of the basket to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Cook the Chicken
- Place the coated chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer (no overlapping).
- Air fry for 13 minutes, flip, and spritz with olive oil if needed to cover dry spots.
- Air fry an additional 13 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- If needed, cook in 5-minute increments until done.
Step 6: Serve
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving for best texture and flavor.