Who doesn’t love crispy, juicy fried chicken? That perfect crunch, the savory flavor—it’s pure comfort food. But the reality of making it at home often involves greasy splatter, high oil costs, and a kitchen that smells like a deep-fryer for days. Many home cooks want that authentic, satisfying crunch without the mess or the guilt of traditional frying.
This is where the air fryer shines, but finding the perfect recipe for *buttermilk* fried chicken in an air fryer can be tricky. Too dry, not crispy enough, or a soggy coating—these are common pitfalls. You want that iconic, tangy flavor locked in with a golden-brown crust, but the air fryer needs specific techniques to deliver.
Fear not! This post unlocks the secrets to making truly exceptional Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken. We will walk you through the simple steps to achieve maximum crispiness and flavor, all while using minimal oil. Get ready to transform your weeknight dinners.
Top Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recommendations
- No MSG added*
- No artificial flavors and no colors from artificial sources
- Three easy ways to cook: Bake, Pan Fry or Deep Fry
- Try with fish, shrimp or pork chops
- PREP TIP: Serve chicken with Zatarain’s Yellow Rice Mix for a complete meal
- Achieve maximum crunch and flavor with our Air Fryer Chicken Coating Mix
- Specially pre-mixed for air fryers, ensuring even coating and delicious results
- Enjoy perfectly crispy chicken in no time, with less oil than traditional frying
- Convenient 5oz box provides ample coating mix for multiple batches
- Elevate your air-fried chicken with a seasoned coating that enhances taste
- AIR FRYER CHICKEN COATING MIX: Enjoy an even coating, maximum crunch and full flavor in no time! Louisiana Fish Fry Air Fryer Seasoned Coating Mix is easy to use, specially pre-mixed and created for air fryers.
- UNMATCHED TEXTURE, DELICIOUS TASTE: Air Fryer Chicken helps you create delicious and perfectly crispy chicken quickly, and with less oil than regular frying. Contains 6 boxes of Seasoned Coating mix, and each box coats up to 2 pounds of chicken.
- SPECIALIZED AND VERSATILE: Air-frying your chicken with this seasoning blend will lend itself to a pleasant and crunchy texture. Create delectable chicken parmesan, chicken sandwiches, game day chicken wings or onion rings to share.
- EASY TO PREPARE: Whether you’re an air fry pro or a curious newcomer, our air fryer mix is easy to cook in your air fryer or conventional oven. Formulated with consistency in mind, achieve the same delicious flavor and texture with every use.
- AUTHENTIC LOUISIANA FLAVOR: Cajun cooking takes time. In fact, we’ve been perfecting it for 60 years. We’re proud to call Baton Rouge, Louisiana our home, allowing us to capture the flavors of an authentic Cajun kitchen with home-grown recipes in mind.
- No MSG added*
- No artificial flavors and no colors from artificial sources
- Three easy ways to cook: Bake, Pan Fry or Deep Fry
- Try with fish, shrimp or pork chops
- PREP TIP: Serve chicken with Zatarain’s Yellow Rice Mix for a complete meal
- PERFECT FRIED CHICKEN, EVERY TIME: With Sylvia’s tried and tested chicken seasoning mix, you can make restaurant-style crispy and crunchy fried chicken in your own kitchen- and get it right every time. Just dredge and deep-fry or shake n bake, and watch how quickly your fried chicken gets devoured! Don’t stop there- this is a great fish fry seasoning mix too, and will make everything you dredge in it taste awesome. Try it with veggies, pork chops, onion rings, and any kind of fish or poultry.
- SEASONED TO PERFECTION: No need for any extra seasoning when using Sylvia’s fried chicken batter mix for your chicken. The chicken coating mix is heartily flavored, yet not hot, creating a wholesome Southern flavor you can’t get anywhere else. To add some heat, drizzle with Sylvia’s Kickin’ Hot, Hot Sauce before serving.
- DIRECTIONS: For the perfect crispy fried chicken exterior with a tender, juicy interior, dunk chicken pieces in egg wash or buttermilk, then dredge in the chicken fry seasoning mix. Shake off any extra chicken flour and fry in hot oil for 6-7 minutes on each side. You can also shake n’ bake: pour the chicken breading mix into a bag, add the chicken pieces, and shake it up, then fry, air-fry, or bake till crispy.
- FROM HARLEM TO HOME: Experience the scrumptious Southern comfort food served at Sylvia’s Restaurant- the Harlem venue that everyone called home. Her iconic crispy chicken and other famous recipes and secret ingredients are now available for every family to savor! And with our cost-effective multipack of nine 10 oz packets, you can enjoy it regularly without running out.
- SOUL FOOD BY SYLVIA’S: Lovingly known by all as the “Queen of Soul Food” and the ‘Mama of Harlem’, Sylvia Woods served love and heart with authentic Southern cuisine at her world-famous Harlem restaurant. Scroll up and add Sylvia’s Restaurant Fried Chicken Mix to your cart now for an inimitable taste of that love and soul.
- The Classic Fried Chicken Keto Coating Mix is a versatile & specially seasoned blend that’s perfect for use throughout your preferred cooking method for chicken – bake, deep fry, or use this coating mix in your air fryer.
- Perfectly seasoned, Louisiana Fish Fry’s easy to use Classic Fried Chicken Keto Coating Mix is made so you can enjoy the delicious, crunchy food you love.
- Indulge in crispy fried chicken without sacrificing flavor or your lifestyle!
- Item Package Weight: 2.0 pounds
- The information below is per-pack only
- No MSG added*
- No artificial flavors and no colors from artificial sources
- Three easy ways to cook: Bake, Pan Fry or Deep Fry
- Try with fish, shrimp or pork chops
- Fields, Robin (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 224 Pages - 07/20/2021 (Publication Date) - Adams Media (Publisher)
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Crispy Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken Success
Making delicious, crispy fried chicken without all the oil might seem like magic. Air fryers make it possible! This guide helps you choose the right tools and ingredients to achieve that perfect, juicy, buttermilk-soaked chicken right in your kitchen.
Key Features to Look For in Your Air Fryer
When buying an air fryer for chicken, size and power matter most. You want your chicken pieces to cook evenly, not steam!
Capacity and Size
- Basket Size: Look for an air fryer that can comfortably hold a single layer of chicken pieces (like thighs or breasts). A basket that is too small forces you to cook in too many batches, which wastes time. Aim for 5.8 quarts or larger if you cook for a family.
- Shape: Square baskets often offer more usable space than round ones.
Temperature Control and Power
- High Heat Capability: Fried chicken needs high heat to crisp the coating quickly. Ensure the air fryer can reach at least 400°F (200°C).
- Precise Settings: Good models let you set the time and temperature exactly. This precision helps prevent burning the coating before the inside cooks.
Important Materials for the Best Results
The materials in your air fryer basket directly affect cleanup and crispiness.
Basket Material
- Non-Stick Coating: A good quality non-stick coating is essential. Buttermilk and flour mixtures can stick badly. Look for PFOA/PFOS-free coatings for safety.
- Crisper Plates: Some air fryers include a perforated plate or tray. This plate lifts the chicken slightly, allowing hot air to circulate underneath. This circulation is key to achieving that all-over crunch.
Build Quality
Sturdy handles and a well-sealed door keep the heat inside. A heavy-duty build means the machine will last longer, especially with frequent use.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes the difference between soggy skin and crispy perfection?
Factors That Improve Quality (Crispiness & Flavor)
- Air Circulation Design: Models that use powerful fans and well-placed heating elements circulate air faster. Fast circulation dries the coating quickly, making it crispier.
- Preheating: Always use an air fryer that preheats quickly. Placing cold chicken into a warm basket starts the cooking process instantly, locking in juices.
Factors That Reduce Quality (Mess & Effort)
- Hard-to-Clean Parts: If the basket or drip tray is difficult to disassemble or wash, you might avoid making the recipe often. Look for dishwasher-safe parts.
- Loud Operation: Some powerful air fryers sound like small jet engines. Check user reviews for noise levels if you cook while others are sleeping or watching TV.
User Experience and Use Cases
Air fryer fried chicken is versatile. Think beyond dinner!
Ease of Use
Digital controls are usually easier to read and set than dial controls. Simple, one-touch presets (if available) can speed up setup, though you will likely use the manual setting for chicken recipes.
Use Cases
- Quick Weeknight Meals: Air frying cooks faster than a conventional oven, perfect for busy evenings.
- Healthier Snacking: You significantly reduce the oil absorbed compared to deep frying, making it a better option for regular enjoyment.
- Batch Cooking: If your model is large enough, you can cook a full batch of drumsticks or wings at once, great for meal prepping lunches.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Q: Do I need to spray the chicken with oil?
A: Yes, a light spray of high-heat oil (like avocado or canola) on the coated chicken is highly recommended. This oil helps the coating brown and achieve that classic fried texture.
Q: Why is my buttermilk chicken soggy in the air fryer?
A: Soggy results usually happen for two reasons: either the basket was overcrowded, blocking airflow, or the temperature was too low. Cook in a single layer and ensure your fryer reaches 380°F (195°C) or higher.
Q: How long should the chicken soak in the buttermilk?
A: For the best flavor and tenderizing, soak the chicken for at least 4 hours, but overnight (12-24 hours) yields the most tender results.
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: It is best to use fresh or fully thawed chicken. Cooking frozen chicken often results in a burnt exterior and raw interior because the cooking time is extended too much.
Q: What is the best temperature for cooking chicken breasts?
A: Start by preheating to 380°F (195°C). Cook for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Always check the internal temperature; it must reach 165°F (74°C).
Q: Does the buttermilk coating fall off during air frying?
A: The coating can fall off if you skip the dredging steps or don’t press the flour mixture firmly onto the wet chicken. Make sure the final flour coat is packed on well.
Q: Do I need to flip the chicken halfway through?
A: Yes, flipping is crucial for even cooking and browning. This ensures both sides get direct exposure to the heating element.
Q: Can I use different cuts of meat?
A: Absolutely! Drumsticks and wings are excellent because they are smaller. Thicker cuts like bone-in breasts take longer and might require slightly lower temperatures toward the end to prevent burning.
Q: How do I clean the air fryer basket quickly after cooking sticky chicken?
A: Immediately after serving, soak the basket in hot, soapy water for 10 minutes. This softens any stuck-on bits, making wiping easy.
Q: Is air fryer fried chicken truly healthier than deep-fried?
A: Yes. Air frying uses up to 80% less added oil than traditional deep frying, significantly reducing the fat and calorie content while keeping the crispy texture.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!