Print

Air Fryer KFC Copycat Chicken Recipe

Air Fryer KFC Copycat Chicken Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Achieve crispy, tender chicken with bold KFC-inspired flavors using an air fryer. This healthier version uses buttermilk, a balanced spice mix, and precise air frying to create juicy, golden-brown pieces.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken pieces (bone-in or boneless thighs/drumsticks recommended)
1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk
1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
1 tsp celery salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp white pepper
1 tsp dry mustard
1 tsp thyme
1 tsp basil
1 tsp oregano
1 tsp garlic salt
1 tsp ground ginger
Optional: additional 1/2 tsp salt for seasoning

Instructions

Combine buttermilk, celery salt, black pepper, white pepper, dry mustard, thyme, basil, oregano, garlic salt, and ginger in a bowl
Add chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully submerged. Marinate for 30 minutes
Pat chicken dry and coat generously with flour and additional spices
Lightly spray chicken with oil for extra crispiness
Place chicken in air fryer basket in single layer
Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway

Notes

Use similar-sized chicken pieces for even cooking
Bleached flour creates a crispier coating than unbleached
Adjust oil spray amount slightly for preferred crispness
Let chicken rest 5 minutes before serving for juier texture