Name: Air Fryer Fried Chicken That’s Crispy and Juicy
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 28 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 8 chicken drumsticks or thighs (bone-in, skin-on); 1 cup buttermilk; 1 tsp paprika; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp onion powder; Salt & pepper to taste; 1½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup cornstarch; 1 tsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp cayenne pepper; 1 tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp white pepper; Salt & black pepper to taste; Olive oil spray (or cooking spray)

Jump to Recipe

Some nights, all I want is that golden, crispy crunch without the mess of deep frying. That’s where my trusty air fryer steps in—and this air fryer fried chicken recipe has become my go-to comfort fix.

It’s inspired by those irresistible KFC-style flavors we all crave, but with a lighter touch and way less cleanup. Whether you’re juggling a busy workday or trying to please a picky eater, this dish brings restaurant-style satisfaction home—fast.

So if you’re craving homemade crunchy chicken that’s juicy on the inside and crisp on the outside, you’re in the right kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Fried Chicken

It’s everything we love about fried chicken—crispy, juicy, packed with flavor—but without the greasy splatter or guilt.

This recipe is quick enough for weeknights, yet tasty enough for Sunday dinner.

You’ll love how the buttermilk marinade makes the meat tender, while the air fryer delivers that perfect golden crunch.

Bonus: it’s less mess, less oil, and absolutely no compromise on flavor.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Now let’s talk ingredients—because the magic of this air fryer fried chicken starts with everyday pantry staples, plus a few Southern-style flavor boosters.

Chicken drumsticks or thighs: I love using bone-in, skin-on pieces for that juicy center and crispy skin. Thighs or drumsticks work great—whatever your crew prefers.
Buttermilk: This is the secret to tender, flavorful chicken. It breaks down the meat just enough and adds that classic tang. No buttermilk? Mix milk with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar.
Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder: These bring depth and a gentle warmth to the marinade. Smoked paprika adds a subtle BBQ vibe if you’ve got it.
Salt and pepper: Simple but essential. They help every other flavor shine through.
All-purpose flour: The hearty base of our crispy coating. It clings to the chicken and helps form that signature crunch.
Cornstarch: This is my not-so-secret weapon for ultra-light crispiness—like a puff of crunch in every bite.
Smoked paprika and cayenne: These spice things up just a touch. Adjust the cayenne to your heat preference.
Dried oregano and white pepper: A little earthiness and a peppery zing round out the Southern notes.
Olive oil spray (or cooking spray): A light mist helps the coating crisp evenly in the air fryer without getting greasy.

You’ll find the full list of ingredients with exact measurements at the bottom of this post—ready to print or screenshot for your next grocery run.

How to Make Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Making this air fryer fried chicken is easier than you might think—and honestly, kind of fun. Each step brings you closer to that crispy, juicy bite we all dream about. Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive in.

Step 1 – Marinate the Chicken

Start by placing your chicken pieces in a large bowl. Pour in the buttermilk, then add paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. I like to give everything a gentle toss with my hands—messy, but satisfying.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Overnight is even better. That buttermilk works its magic, making each bite tender and flavorful—like your favorite KFC style chicken at home, but better.

Step 2 – Prepare the Coating

While the chicken marinates, mix up your dry ingredients in a shallow dish. Combine flour, cornstarch, smoked paprika, cayenne, oregano, white pepper, and a pinch of salt and black pepper.

This is where the crunch is born. The cornstarch lightens things up, and those spices? They give every bite a Southern-style kick.

Step 3 – Dredge the Chicken

Once the chicken’s had its soak, remove each piece straight from the marinade—don’t pat it dry! The buttermilk helps the coating stick.

Dredge each piece in the flour mix, pressing a bit so it clings well. For crispy air fryer drumsticks, I double dip: back in the marinade, then into the flour mix again. Trust me, it’s worth it.

Step 4 – Preheat and Arrange in the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 380°F. This step matters—it gives you that instant sizzle when the chicken hits the basket.

Spray the basket lightly with cooking spray. Arrange the chicken in a single layer with space between each piece. Spray the tops too—it helps create that golden, crunchy crust.

Step 5 – Cook Until Crispy and Juicy

Air fry the chicken for 25–28 minutes, flipping halfway through. Don’t forget to re-spray the tops after flipping to keep that crunch factor high.

Check that internal temp hits 165°F. That’s your green light for juicy, homemade crunchy chicken perfection.

Step 6 – Let It Rest Before Serving

Once cooked, let your chicken rest on a wire rack or plate for 5 minutes. This helps lock in the juices and keeps the coating crispy—not soggy.

Then serve it up hot and proud—because you just made a buttermilk fried chicken recipe that could rival your favorite diner’s.

Tips for Success

Marinate the chicken overnight for the juiciest, most flavorful results—it’s worth the wait.
Double-dip the chicken for that extra crispy coating we all fight over at the dinner table.
Always preheat the air fryer for even cooking and a golden finish.
Don’t overcrowd the basket—give each piece its breathing room to crisp up properly.
Use a meat thermometer to make sure it hits 165°F for safety and succulence.

Equipment Needed

Air fryer: Any standard-size model works. I use a 5-quart basket-style air fryer for even crispiness.
Mixing bowls: One for marinating, one for dredging. Deep bowls help reduce mess.
Tongs: Perfect for flipping the chicken without breaking that gorgeous crust.
Wire rack: Optional, but resting the chicken on it keeps the bottom from getting soggy.
Meat thermometer: Handy for checking doneness without cutting into the chicken.

Variations of Air Fryer Fried Chicken

Spicy Nashville Style: Add extra cayenne and a drizzle of hot honey after cooking for a sweet heat kick.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap the flour and cornstarch for a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour with rice flour for crunch.
Lemon Herb Twist: Mix lemon zest, thyme, and rosemary into the coating for a zesty, Mediterranean-inspired flavor.
Low-Sodium Version: Go easy on the salt and boost flavor with garlic, onion powder, and fresh herbs instead.
Boneless Tenders: Use chicken tenders or boneless thighs—just reduce air frying time to about 15–18 minutes total.
Dairy-Free Alternative: Replace buttermilk with unsweetened almond milk plus a splash of lemon juice or vinegar.
Asian-Inspired: Add five-spice powder and a dash of soy sauce to the marinade for a totally different twist.
Kid-Friendly Mild: Skip the cayenne and smoked paprika, and add a touch of brown sugar for a sweeter, mellow flavor.

Delicious Ways to Serve It

Classic Southern-style: Pair with creamy mashed potatoes, gravy, and buttery biscuits for a comforting feast.
Fresh and crisp: Serve alongside coleslaw or a tangy cucumber salad to balance the richness.
Family-style platter: Pile high on a wooden board with pickles, cornbread, and hot sauce for easy sharing.
Picnic-perfect: Pack with potato salad, sweet tea, and watermelon slices for a nostalgic outdoor meal.
Weeknight dinner: Serve with roasted veggies and iced lemonade for a quick comfort food fix.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make KFC style chicken at home in an air fryer?

A: Absolutely! That’s the whole beauty of this air fryer fried chicken recipe. The buttermilk marinade mimics that tender, seasoned KFC vibe, and the seasoned coating gives you that unmistakable crunch—minus the deep fryer. With the right spices and a double-dip dredge, you’ll get deliciously crispy chicken that tastes just like your favorite takeout, only homemade.

Q: What’s the secret to crispy air fryer drumsticks?

A: The magic lies in the double dredge. After marinating, dip your drumsticks in the flour mixture, then back into the marinade, and coat again. This builds up layers of crunch that the air fryer crisps to perfection. Also, don’t skip the oil spray—it helps that coating turn golden and crunchy without frying in oil. Think of it as a crunchy hug in every bite.

Q: Can I use boneless chicken for buttermilk fried chicken recipe?

A: Yes, you sure can! Boneless thighs or tenders work great with this buttermilk fried chicken recipe. Just keep in mind, they cook faster—about 15 to 18 minutes depending on thickness. It’s a great option when you’re in a hurry or cooking for little ones who prefer no bones. Tender, juicy, and still packed with flavor.

Q: Is this a good option for an easy comfort food dinner?

A: Oh, absolutely. This air fryer fried chicken is the kind of easy comfort food dinner that brings smiles all around the table. It’s quick, satisfying, and hits that nostalgic spot without the heavy grease. Serve it up with mashed potatoes or a crisp salad, and you’ve got a meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day.

Q: How do I turn this into Southern style air fryer chicken?

A: To take it full-on Southern, lean into the spices—add a bit more cayenne, paprika, and even a dash of hot sauce to your buttermilk marinade. The Southern style air fryer chicken charm comes from bold flavor and that soulful crunch. Serve it with biscuits, collard greens, and sweet tea for the full Southern experience—right from your kitchen.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about biting into a piece of air fryer fried chicken that’s golden, crunchy, and still juicy enough to make you close your eyes in delight. It’s comfort food reborn—lighter, faster, and still packed with soul. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just treating yourself after a long day, this recipe delivers that homemade joy we all crave.

So go ahead—let your air fryer do the heavy lifting, and savor every crispy, flavorful bite. It’s proof that great food doesn’t need to be complicated, just made with love.

Air Fryer Fried Chicken That’s Crispy and Juicy