Air Fryer Southern Style Fried Chicken

 

Air Fryer Southern Style Fried Chicken

Southern fried chicken is a classic that warms our hearts and stomachs with its rich history and good nutrition. Its origins can be traced back to Scottish settlers in South America, who brought with them the tradition of deep-frying chicken. Over time, this merged with the spices and techniques of African cuisine, resulting in the delicious food explosion we now associate with southern fried chicken.

Air fryers have become the new frontier of home cooking as people look for better ways to cook without sacrificing flavor. This recipe offers a twist by using the air fryer, reducing the oil but maintaining all the texture and flavor you’d expect from a traditional Southern fried chicken.

A plate of this delicious Southern-style fried chicken is perfect with classic side dishes like buttered potatoes, creamy coleslaw, fresh vegetables, or a simple fruit salad. Don’t forget the soft cookies or cornbread to complete the party.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken legs with bone and skin
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon warm (optional spice)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Cook uncooked beans

Directions

1. Place buttermilk and hot sauce in a large mixing bowl. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper and marinate them in the mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours).
2. Preheat your oven to 380°F (193°C). In a shallow bowl, combine flour, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and let excess liquid drip off. Coat each piece in the flour mixture, making sure it's fully covered. Shake off any excess flour.
4. Spray a baking tray with nonstick cooking spray and place the chicken pieces in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch. You may need to work in batches.
5. Lightly coat the chicken with cooking spray to help achieve the desired color and crispiness.
6. Bake for 10 minutes, then turn the chicken pieces over, spray with cooking spray again, and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the outside is golden brown and crispy.
7. Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to distribute evenly, keeping the meat tender and flavorful.

Variations and Tips

• For extra texture, double-dip the chicken by dipping it in the buttermilk-flour mixture a second time.
• Consider adding different spices to the flour mixture to change the flavor. A pinch of cayenne pepper adds heat, while dried sage offers a subtle, herbaceous note.
• Be mindful of air fryer cooking times to prevent overcooking. Air circulation is key to achieving that perfect crispiness.
• Leftovers store well in the refrigerator and can be reheated to retain their freshness. Enjoy the comfort and ease of this Southern classic anytime.