Here’s a super easy, juicy, and golden-crisp recipe for Air Fryer Whole Chicken — perfectly roasted with minimal effort and tons of flavor. Great for weeknight meals or meal prep!
🍗 Air Fryer Whole Chicken
Serves 4–6 | Cook Time: ~50–60 minutes
Ingredients:
-
1 whole chicken (3.5 to 4.5 lbs)
-
2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
-
1½ teaspoons salt
-
1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
-
1 teaspoon garlic powder
-
1 teaspoon onion powder
-
½ teaspoon black pepper
-
½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
-
Optional: lemon slices, fresh rosemary, or thyme inside the cavity
Instructions:
1. Prep the Chicken:
-
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels (very important for crisp skin).
-
Tie the legs together with kitchen twine (optional but helps it cook evenly).
-
Tuck the wings under the body.
2. Season:
-
Rub the chicken all over with olive oil or melted butter.
-
Mix spices in a small bowl and rub evenly over the chicken — under the skin too, if you can.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
-
Preheat to 360°F (182°C) for 3–5 minutes.
4. Air Fry the Chicken:
-
Place the chicken breast-side down in the air fryer basket.
-
Cook at 360°F for 30 minutes, then carefully flip the chicken breast-side up.
-
Continue cooking for 20–30 more minutes, depending on size, until:
-
Internal temp in thickest part of thigh is 165°F (74°C)
-
Juices run clear
-
5. Rest & Serve:
-
Let chicken rest for 10–15 minutes before carving to keep juices inside.
-
Serve with roasted veggies, salad, or rice.
📝 Tips:
-
Don’t overcrowd: Most basket-style air fryers fit up to a 4.5 lb chicken.
-
Drippings at the bottom can be saved to make gravy or sauce.
-
Add sliced onions, carrots, or lemon wedges under the chicken for extra flavor while it cooks.