Air Fryer Whole Chicken Made Easy – just 45 minutes

Ready in just 45 minutes, experience the perfect balance of succulent tenderness and irresistibly crispy skin with our Air Fryer whole chicken recipe. You’ll enjoy a hassle-free meal without compromising on flavor!

Indulge in a mouthwatering delight with our Air Fryer Whole Chicken, ready in just 45 minutes! Experience the perfect balance of succulent tenderness and irresistibly crispy skin. With its quick cooking time, you’ll enjoy a hassle-free meal without compromising on taste. Gather your loved ones and delight in this delicious chicken recipe that will leave you craving more!

Ingredients for Air Fryer Whole Chicken

Made with a delightful blend of fresh herbs, aromatic spices, and a drizzle of olive oil, this succulent chicken boasts a flavorful and crispy skin. Experience the magic of air frying as it locks in moisture, resulting in tender, juicy meat.

Main ingredients

• Whole Roaster Chicken – 3 to 4 lbs
• Olive oil
• Herbs & Spices

How to Make Air Fryer Whole Chicken

Achieve chicken perfection with our Air Fryer Whole Chicken! Rub the bird with your favorite spices, and place it in the air fryer basket. Juicy, tender, and crispy – your taste buds will thank you!

Special tips for making Chicken in the Air Fryer

1. Preheat the air fryer: To ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior, preheat your air fryer for a few minutes before placing the chicken inside.
2. Pat the chicken dry: Before seasoning the chicken, make sure to pat it dry with paper towels. This helps to remove excess moisture, resulting in a crispier skin.
3. Season generously: Don’t be shy when it comes to seasoning the chicken. Generously coat it with your preferred herbs, spices, and marinades to enhance the flavor.
4. Flip halfway through: For even browning, flip the chicken halfway through the cooking process. Use tongs or silicone-coated spatulas to prevent scratching the non-stick surface of your air fryer basket.
5. Use a meat thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the meat.
6. Let it rest: After removing the chicken from the air fryer, allow it to rest for a few minutes before carving. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful meat.
7. Garnish and serve: Before serving, garnish your air fryer whole chicken with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon for an extra burst of flavor. Serve it alongside your favorite sides and enjoy!

Variations on Whole Air Fryer Chicken

Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, and sauces to create your own unique variations of air fryer whole chicken!

1. Lemon Herb: Stuff the chicken cavity with lemon slices, fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme, and garlic cloves before air frying. The citrusy and aromatic flavors will infuse the chicken, creating a delightful taste.
2. BBQ Glazed: Brush the chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce before air frying. As it cooks, the sauce will caramelize, creating a sticky and tangy glaze that adds a burst of flavor.
3. Spicy Cajun: Rub the chicken with a homemade Cajun spice blend or store-bought Cajun seasoning for a fiery kick. The spices will create a flavorful and slightly spicy crust on the chicken.
4. Asian-inspired: Create an Asian-inspired marinade using soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of honey. Marinate the chicken for a few hours before air frying to infuse it with savory and sweet flavors.
5. Mediterranean: Coat the chicken with a blend of Mediterranean spices like oregano, thyme, paprika, and garlic powder. Serve it with a side of tzatziki sauce or a fresh cucumber and tomato salad for a Mediterranean twist.
6. Smoky Chipotle: Mix chipotle pepper powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cumin to create a smoky and slightly spicy rub for the chicken. The flavors will give the chicken a delicious southwestern flair.
7. Teriyaki Glazed: Brush the chicken with teriyaki sauce, either store-bought or homemade, before air frying. The sauce will create a glossy and sweet glaze, perfect for those who enjoy Asian-inspired flavors.
8. Garlic Parmesan: Sprinkle the chicken with a mixture of grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried herbs, and a pinch of salt. The cheese will melt and create a flavorful crust, while the garlic adds a delicious aroma.

Recipe Tips & Kitchen Tricks

1. Preheat the air fryer: To ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior, preheat your air fryer for a few minutes before placing the chicken inside.
2. Use a trivet or foil balls: Elevating the chicken on a trivet or foil balls inside the air fryer basket helps to promote better airflow and allows the heat to circulate evenly around the chicken.
3. Pat the chicken dry: Before seasoning the chicken, make sure to pat it dry with paper towels. This helps to remove excess moisture, resulting in a crispier skin.
4. Season generously: Don’t be shy when it comes to seasoning the chicken. Generously coat it with your preferred herbs, spices, and marinades to enhance the flavor.
5. Flip halfway through: For even browning, flip the chicken halfway through the cooking process. Use tongs or silicone-coated spatulas to prevent scratching the non-stick surface of your air fryer basket.
6. Use a meat thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the meat.
7. Let it rest: After removing the chicken from the air fryer, allow it to rest for a few minutes before carving. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful meat.
8. Garnish and serve: Before serving, garnish your air fryer whole chicken with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon for an extra burst of flavor. Serve it alongside your favorite sides and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

• How do I ensure the chicken stays moist? To keep the chicken moist, make sure to pat it dry before seasoning. This helps to remove excess moisture. Additionally, consider using a marinade or stuffing the cavity with herbs, lemon slices, or garlic cloves to infuse flavor and retain moisture during cooking.
• Can I use a frozen chicken in an air fryer? It is not recommended to cook a frozen whole chicken directly in an air fryer. Thaw the chicken completely before cooking to ensure it cooks evenly and thoroughly. Thawing can be done in the refrigerator overnight or by using the defrost function on your microwave.
• Do I need to flip the chicken while cooking? Flipping the chicken halfway through the cooking process is recommended for more even browning. Use tongs or silicone-coated spatulas to carefully flip the chicken without damaging the skin.
• How do I know if the chicken is cooked properly? The best way to determine if the chicken is cooked is by using a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat (avoiding bone) and ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
• How can I achieve a crispy skin on the air fryer whole chicken? To achieve crispy skin, make sure to pat the chicken dry before seasoning. You can also lightly coat the skin with oil or use butter or oil-based marinade. Preheating the air fryer and ensuring proper air circulation by not overcrowding the basket can also help achieve crispiness.
• Can I use a whole chicken recipe designed for a traditional oven in an air fryer? While you can adapt a whole chicken recipe for an air fryer, keep in mind that the cooking time and temperature may need adjustments. Air fryers cook food faster than traditional ovens, so it’s important to monitor the cooking process closely and make necessary modifications.
• Can I stuff the chicken before air frying? Yes, you can stuff the chicken before air frying. Just ensure that the stuffing reaches a safe internal temperature (165°F/74°C) along with the chicken. Be cautious not to overstuff the cavity to allow proper air circulation during cooking. Stuffing the chicken may increase the cooking time.

What to serve with air fryer chicken

1. Roasted Vegetables: Serve the chicken with a side of roasted vegetables such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or potatoes. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until golden and tender.
2. Salad: Prepare a tossed green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and your choice of dressing. It provides a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken.
3. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a classic and comforting side dish. Whip up a batch using butter, milk, salt, and pepper, and serve them alongside the chicken.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Brush corn on the cob with melted butter, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and grill or roast it until tender and slightly charred. It’s a perfect summer side dish.
5. Rice or Quinoa: Cook fluffy rice or quinoa as a hearty accompaniment to the chicken. You can enhance their flavors with herbs, spices, or sautéed vegetables.
6. Steamed Vegetables: Opt for a healthier side by steaming a medley of broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots. Season them with a sprinkle of salt and a squeeze of lemon juice for added zest.
7. Biscuits or Dinner Rolls: Freshly baked biscuits or dinner rolls are excellent for mopping up any leftover juices from the chicken. They add a warm and comforting element to the meal.
8. Coleslaw: A tangy and creamy coleslaw complements the chicken’s flavors. Whip up a batch using shredded cabbage, carrots, mayonnaise, vinegar, and a touch of sugar.

Wine Pairings

1. Chardonnay: A classic white wine that pairs well with roasted chicken, particularly if the dish includes creamy sauces or buttery flavors. Look for a medium to full-bodied Chardonnay with notes of citrus, apple, and a hint of oak.
2. Pinot Noir: A light to medium-bodied red wine that pairs well with roasted chicken, especially when the chicken is seasoned with herbs or served with lighter sauces. Look for a Pinot Noir with cherry, raspberry, and earthy undertones.
3. Sauvignon Blanc: A refreshing white wine with vibrant acidity that pairs well with roasted chicken, especially if the dish has citrus or herb-based flavors. Look for a Sauvignon Blanc with citrus, tropical fruit, and herbal notes.
4. Syrah/Shiraz: A medium to full-bodied red wine that pairs well with roasted chicken, particularly when the chicken is seasoned with spices or served with bolder sauces. Look for a Syrah/Shiraz with blackberry, plum, and peppery characteristics.
5. Rosé: A versatile wine that can complement the flavors of roasted chicken, especially if the chicken has lighter seasonings. Look for a dry or off-dry rosé with notes of red berries and a crisp finish.
6. Riesling: A white wine with a range of sweetness levels that can pair well with roasted chicken, especially if the chicken has sweeter or spicier flavors. Look for a Riesling with fruity and floral aromas, ranging from dry to off-dry.