Air Fryer KFC Chicken Recipe

🥇 Introduction: The Magic of Homemade KFC-Style Chicken in an Air Fryer

Who doesn’t love the unmistakable crunch and juicy tenderness of KFC-style fried chicken? It’s iconic. That signature blend of 11 herbs and spices wrapped around perfectly juicy chicken has earned KFC global fame. But what if you could recreate this indulgent comfort food—without the guilt and grease—right in your own kitchen? That’s where the air fryer comes in.

The air fryer is revolutionizing how we cook our favorite crispy dishes. It mimics deep frying using rapid air circulation to deliver that same crispiness, but with up to 80% less oil. When applied to a KFC-style chicken recipe, it becomes the perfect marriage of taste and health.

In this 4000-word guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make Air Fryer KFC Chicken at home—from mastering the buttermilk brine to nailing that extra crispy coating with the right spice blend. Whether you’re cooking for Sunday dinner, game day, or simply satisfying a craving, this recipe is a showstopper.

Get ready to enjoy all the flavor and crunch of the Colonel’s famous chicken, with none of the drive-thru regrets.

🍗 Air Fryer KFC Chicken Recipe

🧾 Ingredients

For the Chicken Brine:

• 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or breasts)

• 2 cups buttermilk (or 2 cups milk + 2 tbsp lemon juice)

• 1 tbsp hot sauce (optional, for a spicy brine)

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp black pepper

For the Flour Dredge (KFC-Style Coating):

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried basil

• 1 tsp celery salt

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp ground white pepper

• ½ tsp chili powder

• ½ tsp ground mustard

• ½ tsp ground thyme

• ½ tsp ginger powder

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional, adds depth)

For Binding:

• 2 large eggs

• 2 tbsp milk

Optional:

• Spray oil (like canola or avocado oil)

🧂 Step 1: The Buttermilk Brine – Soak for Flavor and Tenderness

The first and arguably most important step is brining the chicken. Soaking in buttermilk helps tenderize the meat and allows the flavors to penetrate deep within.

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, salt, pepper, and hot sauce (if using).

2. Add the chicken pieces and ensure they are fully submerged.

3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This makes a huge difference in texture and flavor.

Pro Tip: If you’re in a rush, 1-2 hours is the minimum for brining, but overnight is best for juiciness and flavor absorption.

🍳 Step 2: Prepare the Coating – KFC’s Famous Flavor at Home

This is where we replicate the 11 herbs and spices that make KFC so iconic. You’ll combine these dry ingredients to create the signature crust.

Instructions:

1. In a large shallow bowl, combine all the flour and spice dredge ingredients.

2. Mix thoroughly using a whisk or fork to evenly distribute the spices.

Why All These Spices? KFC’s blend is a symphony of flavors. From paprika’s smokiness to the peppery bite of ginger and mustard, each plays a role in delivering bold, balanced flavor.

🥚 Step 3: Egg Wash – Helps the Coating Stick

To help the flour mixture adhere better, use an egg wash.

Instructions:

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 eggs and 2 tablespoons of milk.

🧤 Step 4: Dredging Process – Double Coated for Extra Crunch

This step is the secret sauce for getting that classic thick and craggy crust.

Instructions:

1. Remove chicken from the buttermilk brine and let excess liquid drip off.

2. Dip each piece into the flour mixture and coat well.

3. Next, dip it into the egg wash.

4. Return it to the flour mixture for a second coating, pressing the flour into the chicken to form nooks and crannies.

5. Place the coated chicken on a wire rack or tray to rest for 10–15 minutes. This helps the coating adhere better when cooking.

🌡️ Step 5: Preheat and Load the Air Fryer

Instructions:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 190°C (375°F) for 5 minutes.

2. Spray the air fryer basket with non-stick spray or lightly brush with oil.

3. Place the chicken pieces in a single layer, leaving space between each one for proper air circulation.

4. Lightly spray the tops of the chicken with oil to encourage even browning and crisping.

⏲️ Step 6: Cooking the Chicken

Instructions:

1. Cook the chicken at 190°C (375°F) for 12 minutes on one side.

2. Carefully flip each piece and cook for another 10–12 minutes on the other side.

3. Check for doneness using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should read 75°C (165°F) for chicken.

4. For larger pieces like breasts, you may need an extra 3–5 minutes.

5. Remove and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Golden Tip: Don’t overcrowd the basket. Cook in batches if needed. This ensures that every piece gets crispy and evenly cooked.

🧄🍯 Optional Additions and Serving Ideas

🍯 Honey Butter Glaze

For that sweet southern twist, combine:

• 3 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp honey
  Melt and drizzle over the hot chicken for a sweet-and-savory combo.

🍟 Serve With:

• Air fryer fries

• Coleslaw

• Mashed potatoes and gravy

• Corn on the cob

• Biscuits or cornbread

🔄 Reheating Air Fryer Fried Chicken

To reheat leftovers and keep that crisp:

1. Preheat air fryer to 175°C (350°F)

2. Add chicken pieces in a single layer

3. Heat for 4–6 minutes, flipping halfway

🧼 Cleanup Tips

• Soak the air fryer basket immediately after cooking to loosen residue.

• Use a soft sponge and warm soapy water.

• Don’t forget to clean under the tray where drippings might collect.

🧪 Expert Tips for the Perfect Air Fryer KFC Chicken

✅ Don’t Skip the Brine

Brining ensures juiciness and infuses the chicken with flavor from within.

✅ Use Bone-In Chicken

Bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces stay moister than boneless cuts and give that traditional fried chicken feel.

✅ Double Coating is Key

The first coat sticks to the chicken, the second coat sticks to the first coat—creating layers of crunch.

✅ Spray Oil Generously

This isn’t deep frying, so adding a light coat of oil ensures your breading crisps instead of drying out.

✅ Rest Before Serving

Letting the chicken sit for a few minutes after cooking allows juices to redistribute and the crust to firm up.

🧮 Nutritional Information (Per Piece, Approximate)

Note: Nutrition varies depending on cut and amount of oil used.

🍗 Conclusion: Crispy Chicken Perfection at Home

This Air Fryer KFC Chicken recipe is the perfect blend of iconic taste and modern technique. You get all the crisp, crunch, and spice of your favorite fast food fried chicken, with none of the greasy guilt. Whether you’re feeding a family, preparing for a game night, or simply craving something special, this recipe delivers every single time.

By mastering the buttermilk brine, nailing the herb-packed flour blend, and using your air fryer the right way, you’ve unlocked the secret to healthier homemade fried chicken. And the best part? No standing over hot oil, no messy cleanup, and no deep fryer required.

With this recipe in your kitchen arsenal, every meal can be a finger-lickin’ good time—crispy, juicy, and full of flavor. Happy frying! 🍗🔥