Air Fryer KFC-Style Chicken
This air fryer KFC-style chicken is crispy outside, juicy inside, and full of classic fried chicken flavor without deep frying.
A seasoned coating and quick buttermilk soak help create tender drumsticks with a golden, craggy crust.
Quick Facts
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 22–26 minutes
Total Time: 37–41 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
8 chicken drumsticks
2 cups buttermilk
1 tbsp hot sauce (optional)
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 tbsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1 1/2 tsp salt
Cooking oil spray
Directions
1. Pat the drumsticks dry. In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce, then add the chicken and soak for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, black pepper, cayenne, and salt.
3. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off. Coat each drumstick well in the flour mixture, pressing the coating on so it sticks.
4. Place the coated chicken on a tray or plate and let it rest for 10 minutes. This helps the crust hold better in the air fryer.
5. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F. Lightly spray the basket with oil.
6. Arrange the drumsticks in a single layer. Lightly spray the tops with oil and cook for 10 minutes.
7. Flip the chicken, spray any dry flour spots, and cook for another 12–16 minutes, or until the crust is crisp and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
8. Rest for 5 minutes before serving.
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Notes / Tips
No buttermilk? Use 2 cups milk mixed with 2 tbsp lemon juice or white vinegar and let it sit for 10 minutes.
Press the coating onto the chicken instead of shaking it off if you want a thicker, crunchier crust.
Do not overcrowd the basket. Cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Spray any pale flour spots before and after flipping so the coating browns more evenly.
Variations
Use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks for a juicier version.
Skip the cayenne for a milder family-friendly version.
Add 1 tsp extra black pepper for a more classic fried chicken flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420
Protein: 29 g
Fat: 20 g
Carbohydrates: 28 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 780 mg
Looking for even more air fryer ideas?
Browse my Air Fryer Cookbook for Beginners on Amazon for more simple recipes, helpful tips, and everyday favorites.
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