How to Cook a Chicken in an Air Fryer: Everything You Need to Know

Cooking chicken is easy, but getting it to turn out delicious can be challenging. An air fryer is an excellent tool for making chicken dishes because it cooks the chicken evenly and quickly. If you are new to using an air fryer and have wondered how to cook a chicken in it, then you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to cook a chicken in an air fryer and share some tips for getting the most flavor out of your chicken.

Choosing the Right Air Fryer

Before you start cooking your chicken, you need to make sure you have the right air fryer for the job. A 5.8 quart air fryer is an excellent size for cooking a whole chicken. You also want to make sure it has a non-stick coating to prevent the chicken from sticking to the basket.

Preparing the Chicken

To cook a chicken in an air fryer, you first need to prepare it for cooking. Remove giblets from inside the chicken, take out any extra fat, and rinse the chicken with cold water. Pat it dry with a paper towel. If you’re cooking a whole chicken, you can season it by rubbing it with olive oil, salt, and pepper, or by using your favorite seasoning mix.

Cooking the Chicken in an Air Fryer

Now that the chicken is ready, it’s time to cook it in the air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees F. Place the chicken in the basket with the breast side facing down. Cook for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, flip the chicken over and cook for an additional 20 minutes. Check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it’s fully cooked. It should reach 165 degrees F at the thickest part of the chicken.

Tips for Flavorful Chicken

To get the most flavor out of your chicken, there are a few tips to follow. First, marinate your chicken for at least an hour before cooking. This will help infuse the meat with flavor and make it juicier. You can also use a dry rub or add seasoning to the chicken before cooking.

Secondly, don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. The chicken needs room to cook evenly, so make sure there’s enough space in the basket for the chicken to lay flat. If you’re cooking a whole chicken, consider cutting it into pieces and cooking in batches.

Lastly, consider using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. This will ensure that the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Cleaning the Air Fryer

After cooking, it’s essential to clean the air fryer. Let the air fryer cool down and wipe the inside with a damp cloth. The basket and pan can be hand-washed with warm, soapy water. Do not use abrasive sponges or cleaners to clean the basket or pan, as this can damage the non-stick coating.

FAQs

Q: Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Yes, always preheat the air fryer before cooking your chicken.

Q: How long does it take to cook a whole chicken in an air fryer?
It takes about 40 minutes to cook a whole chicken in an air fryer.

Q: Can I cook frozen chicken in an air fryer?
Yes, you can cook frozen chicken in an air fryer. However, it will take longer to cook.

Q: Can I cook chicken breasts in an air fryer?
Yes, you can cook chicken breasts in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees F and cook for 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken.

In conclusion, an air fryer is an excellent kitchen gadget to have, especially if you love cooking chicken dishes. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can cook a delicious and flavorful chicken in an air fryer in no time. Remember to choose the right air fryer, prepare the chicken properly, and don’t forget the seasoning. Happy cooking!