Air Fryer Whole Chicken Recipe
Introduction
Air frying a whole chicken is a quick and easy way to enjoy juicy, flavorful poultry with crispy skin. This method locks in moisture while giving you that perfect golden finish, all without heating up your oven.
Ingredients
- 1 (4-5) pound whole chicken (giblets removed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Rub the whole chicken with olive oil. In a small bowl, combine Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, ensuring even coverage.
- Step 2: Place the chicken breast side down in the air fryer basket. Cook at 360°F for 30 minutes.
- Step 3: Carefully flip the chicken and continue cooking at 360°F for an additional 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.
Tips & Variations
- Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute for a moister result.
- Try adding lemon slices or fresh herbs under the skin for extra flavor.
- Adjust seasoning according to your taste by adding cayenne for heat or smoked paprika for a smoky twist.
- If your air fryer is small, cut the chicken into parts to ensure even cooking.
Storage
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer or oven to maintain crisp skin, heating to an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I cook a frozen whole chicken in the air fryer?
It’s best to thaw the chicken completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and food safety.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh; it should read 165°F to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
PrintAir Fryer Whole Chicken Recipe
A simple and delicious recipe for a whole chicken cooked to perfection in an air fryer, resulting in juicy meat with crispy skin seasoned with Italian herbs and spices.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 (4-5 pound) whole chicken, giblets removed
Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Rub the whole chicken with olive oil to ensure the seasonings adhere well and to help create a crispy skin when cooking.
- Season the chicken: In a small bowl, mix the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning mix evenly all over the chicken, making sure to cover every part for maximum flavor.
- Air fry – first side: Place the chicken breast side down in the air fryer basket. Set the air fryer temperature to 360 degrees Fahrenheit and cook the chicken for 30 minutes. This helps to cook the thicker parts evenly.
- Air fry – second side: Flip the chicken over so it is breast side up and continue cooking for another 30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Rest and serve: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute before carving and serving.
Notes
- Make sure to remove giblets from the chicken cavity before cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- Let the chicken rest after air frying for juicier results.
- Adjust seasoning amounts depending on personal taste preferences.
- Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the size of the chicken and air fryer model.
Keywords: air fryer whole chicken, easy whole chicken recipe, crispy air fryer chicken, Italian seasoning chicken, quick air fryer dinner
