Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of savory spices filled the air, and I felt a moment of triumph with my new culinary creation. Crispy Buttermilk Air Fryer Chicken is a delightful dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. With its quick preparation and easy cleanup, this recipe effortlessly fits into any busy weeknight routine or festive family gathering. The secret lies in the buttermilk marinade, which guarantees juicy, tender chicken nestled beneath a perfectly crispy exterior. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply craving comfort food, this dish is bound to impress. Curious about how to achieve that irresistible crunch? Let’s dive into the recipe! How to Achieve Irresistible Crunch? Crispy Texture: The air fryer brings a delightful crunch to the chicken without excess oil, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Flavorful Marinade: Buttermilk not only tenderizes but infuses the chicken with delicious savory notes that keep every bite exciting. Quick & Easy: With just a simple marinade and minimal prep time, you can whip up this dish even on the busiest weeknights. Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish is sure to impress both kids and adults alike. Versatile Options: Feel free to customize the spices for a unique twist – try swapping in Italian herbs or a kick of cayenne for some heat! For sides, pair this crispy delight with a refreshing side salad or even some sweet potato fries for a wholesome meal. Dive into more tasty creations like Air Fryer Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Popcorn Chicken Snack to satisfy your cravings! Crispy Buttermilk Air Fryer Chicken Ingredients For the Chicken Marinade • Chicken Pieces – The main protein; thighs, drumsticks, or breasts work beautifully. • Buttermilk – Keeps the chicken tender; substitute with regular milk and vinegar for a similar effect. • Garlic Powder – Adds savory depth; fresh minced garlic can be swapped for more intense flavor. • Onion Powder – Enhances overall taste; fresh onions can provide a bolder flavor. • Paprika – Provides subtle smokiness; consider using smoked paprika for extra flavor. • Salt – Essential for elevating the taste; don’t skip this key ingredient! • Black Pepper – Delivers a mild heat; freshly ground is best to maximize flavor. For the Coating • All-Purpose Flour – Creates that desired crispy coating; gluten-free flour works as a substitute. • Baking Powder – Contributes to the light, crispy texture you crave in fried chicken. For Cooking • Cooking Spray or Olive Oil – Ensures a crispy finish; high smoke point oils like avocado oil are ideal. Let’s get ready to create that mouthwatering Crispy Buttermilk Air Fryer Chicken that will have your family asking for more! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Buttermilk Air Fryer Chicken Step 1: Marinate the Chicken In a large mixing bowl, whisk together buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until combined. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully submerged in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours, to tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor. Step 2: Prepare Coating While the chicken marinates, set up your coating station. In a separate bowl, combine all-purpose flour and baking powder, mixing well to ensure even distribution. This dry mix will create the desired crispy coating that will wrap around your buttermilk-marinated chicken, adding to that perfect crunch once air-fried. Step 3: Preheat Air Fryer Next, preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that beautiful golden-brown color and crispy texture in your Crispy Buttermilk Air Fryer Chicken. A well-heated air fryer ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and efficiently without drying out. Step 4: Coat the Chicken After marinating, remove each chicken piece from the buttermilk, letting excess marinade drip off. Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, ensuring a good coating on all sides while shaking off any excess flour. This will create that delightful crispy crust that we all love in fried chicken, especially when prepared in the air fryer. Step 5: Air Fry the Chicken Spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated chicken pieces in the basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them for even cooking. Cook the chicken in the air fryer for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they brown evenly and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Step 6: Crispiness Check For that extra crunch that makes Crispy Buttermilk Air Fryer Chicken irresistible, add an additional 3-5 minutes in the air fryer once the initial cooking time is up. Keep an eye on the chicken, as it will turn beautifully golden brown and will be ready to impress with its appeal and texture. Step 7: Rest Once the chicken is golden and cooked through, carefully remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, ensuring each bite remains moist and flavorful. After resting, your crispy chicken is ready to be served and enjoyed! What to Serve with Crispy Buttermilk Air Fryer Chicken Elevate your mealtime experience by pairing this deliciously crispy chicken with sides that complement its savory flavor and satisfying crunch. Creamy Coleslaw: The fresh crunch of cabbage and a tangy dressing balance the richness of the chicken, adding a refreshing element to each bite. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Their smooth and buttery texture contrasts beautifully with the crispy chicken, making for a comforting and hearty plate. Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness plays off the savory flavors of the chicken, while their crispiness echoes the crunch you love. Grilled Vegetable Medley: Charred seasonal veggies bring in smoky flavors, providing a delightful textural contrast that lightens the overall meal. Classic Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing offer a refreshing bite alongside the rich, crispy chicken; great for a touch of elegance. Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn is a summer staple that pairs perfectly with fried foods, enhancing the meal with its bright, juicy bursts. Sparkling Lemonade: Opt for this refreshing drink to cleanse your palate between bites; its citrusy zing perfectly counteracts the savory richness. Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, warm, gooey cookies provide the ultimate comfort, wrapping up your meal with a sweet touch that everyone will love. Expert Tips for Crispy Buttermilk Air Fryer Chicken Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for thighs or drumsticks for juiciness; breasts can dry out. Thighs will give you that succulent, tender texture you crave. Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, let the chicken marinate for up to 4 hours. A longer soak in buttermilk not only adds taste, it also ensures juicy meat. Avoid Overcrowding: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the air fryer can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy chicken; give each piece space to breathe. Monitor Cooking Time: Each air fryer is unique! Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time to prevent overcooking. Extra Crispiness Tip: For an even crunchier finish, spritz the coated chicken with a touch of oil before air frying; this helps achieve that golden-brown crust. Rest the Chicken: After cooking, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes. This crucial step seals in the juices and enhances the eating experience of your crispy buttermilk air fryer chicken. How to Store and Freeze Crispy Buttermilk Air Fryer Chicken Fridge: Store leftover crispy buttermilk air fryer chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the chicken moist and flavorful while preventing spoilage. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer it to a freezer bag for up to 2 months to prevent freezer burn. Reheating: To enjoy that crispy texture again, reheat in the air fryer at 360°F (182°C) for 5-7 minutes, ensuring the chicken stays crispy rather than soggy. Thawing: When ready to eat, thaw frozen chicken in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results. Crispy Buttermilk Air Fryer Chicken Variations Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own—there are plenty of fun twists to explore! Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for an exciting heat that balances perfectly with the juicy chicken. Herb Infusion: Mix dried Italian herbs into the flour coating for a fragrant, savory twist that complements the buttermilk wonderfully. Lighter Option: Use skinless chicken to reduce fat without sacrificing flavor; the buttermilk still keeps it delightfully tender. Yogurt Alternative: Try a yogurt-based marinade for a tangy flavor profile while maintaining that essential moisture in the chicken. Crispy Coating: Incorporate crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs into the flour for an extra crunchy texture that takes your chicken to the next level. Smoky Flavor: Substitute regular paprika with smoked paprika for a deeper, rich taste that elevates the overall flavor profile of your chicken. Asian Twist: Swap garlic and onion powder for five-spice powder and serve with a sweet soy dipping sauce for an Asian-inspired delight. Zesty Citrus: Add lemon or lime zest to the flour mixture for a fresh, bright flavor that stands out beautifully with the buttermilk marinade. Each variation is a delicious opportunity to explore new tastes in your Crispy Buttermilk Air Fryer Chicken. While you’re at it, why not pair it with some sweet potato fries or a refreshing side salad? And for even more tasty possibilities, dive into Air Fryer Garlic Butter Steak Bites or whip up Popcorn Chicken Snack for a delightful meal! Make Ahead Options These Crispy Buttermilk Air Fryer Chicken are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken in buttermilk mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate and the chicken to tenderize. Additionally, you can prepare the flour mixture and store it in a separate container for up to 3 days—just make sure it’s sealed tightly to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply dredge the marinated chicken in the flour mixture, air fry as directed, and you’ll have crispy, juicy chicken that fits seamlessly into your busy weeknight dinner plans! Crispy Buttermilk Air Fryer Chicken Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best chicken pieces for this recipe? Absolutely! For crispy buttermilk air fryer chicken, I recommend using thighs or drumsticks as they tend to stay juicy and tender during cooking. Breasts can dry out, so if you prefer them, ensure they are well-marinated and do not overcook. How should I store leftover crispy buttermilk air fryer chicken? Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the chicken’s moisture and flavor. Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing, as moisture can lead to sogginess. Can I freeze crispy buttermilk air fryer chicken? Very much so! To freeze, arrange cooked chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them into a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. This method helps prevent freezer burn. What’s the best way to reheat this chicken? Reheating is essential for restoring its crispiness. I recommend air frying the chicken at 360°F (182°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This method revives the delightful crunch while warming it through. Avoid microwave reheating, as that may result in a soggy texture. Is there a way to adjust the spiciness of this recipe for children or those who prefer milder flavors? Of course! You can modify the spices according to your family’s taste. For a milder flavor, reduce or omit the paprika and black pepper in the marinade and coating. Alternatively, consider integrating more herbs like oregano or thyme for a different yet sweeter profile that kids usually love. Can I use dairy-free alternatives in this recipe? Absolutely! To create a dairy-free crispy buttermilk air fryer chicken, you can substitute buttermilk with a plant-based milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Almond milk or oat milk works wonderfully, ensuring your dish retains that tender quality while being suitable for dairy-free diets. Crispy Buttermilk Air Fryer Chicken: Juicy, Crunchy Delight Crispy Buttermilk Air Fryer Chicken is a healthier alternative to fried chicken, boasting a juicy, tender interior and a perfectly crispy exterior. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsMarinating Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 piecesCourse: ChickenCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken Marinade4 pieces Chicken Pieces thighs, drumsticks, or breasts2 cups Buttermilk or substitute with regular milk and vinegar1 teaspoon Garlic Powder or use fresh minced garlic1 teaspoon Onion Powder or fresh onions1 teaspoon Paprika or smoked paprika for stronger flavor1 teaspoon Salt essential for flavor1 teaspoon Black Pepper freshly ground for best flavorFor the Coating1 cup All-Purpose Flour or gluten-free flour1 teaspoon Baking PowderFor Cookingcooking spray Cooking Spray or Olive Oil high smoke point oils like avocado oil recommended Equipment Air FryerMixing bowlmeasuring cupsWhiskbaking sheet Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Crispy Buttermilk Air Fryer ChickenIn a large mixing bowl, whisk together buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.In a separate bowl, combine all-purpose flour and baking powder to create the coating.Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes.Remove chicken from marinade, dredge in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and place coated chicken in a single layer. Cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.Add an extra 3-5 minutes for extra crunch. Monitor closely until golden.Remove chicken from the air fryer, let rest for a few minutes before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1pieceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 25gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesFor best results, marinate longer and ensure not to overcrowd the air fryer to maintain crispiness. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
