Introduction
Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken is the ultimate way to enjoy crispy, golden-brown chicken while keeping things light and healthier. In fact, this method ensures the chicken stays juicy on the inside while achieving a perfectly crunchy, flavorful coating outside. Not only that, but by using an air fryer, you can skip the mess and excess oil of deep frying while still getting a deliciously crispy texture.
Moreover, marinating the chicken in buttermilk enhances tenderness and infuses it with rich flavor. As a result, every bite is packed with a delightful balance of crispiness and juiciness. In this guide, you’ll learn how to make Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken step by step, from marinating and breading to air frying for that irresistible crunch. In addition, we’ll explore seasoning variations, essential cooking tips, and frequently asked questions to ensure you get the best results every time.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken
The Benefits of Air Frying Over Deep Frying
Air frying has become a favorite cooking method for many, and for good reason. For instance, it provides a way to achieve the crispy texture of deep frying with significantly less oil. In contrast, traditional frying requires submerging food in oil, which adds unnecessary calories. Because of this, an air fryer helps you enjoy your favorite fried foods in a guilt-free way.
Key Reasons to Try This Recipe:
✅ Healthier Alternative – Uses minimal oil while keeping the crunch.
✅ Crispy & Juicy – The perfect balance of tenderness and crispiness.
✅ Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and effortless cooking process.
✅ Faster Cooking – No need to preheat oil—just air fry and enjoy!
✅ Customizable – Adjust spices and breading for your personal taste.
Moreover, this dish pairs well with various sides, like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or even a BBQ Chicken Sandwich for a fun twist on classic flavors.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken
For Marinating the Chicken
- 2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken (thighs, drumsticks, or breasts)
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Breading
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 2 eggs (for binding)
For Cooking
- Cooking spray or oil (for coating the air fryer basket)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Marination is an essential step in this recipe, as it helps tenderize the chicken while infusing it with flavor. For example, buttermilk contains acids that break down proteins, making the meat softer and juicier.
- In a large bowl, mix buttermilk, hot sauce, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully submerged.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is even better). As a result, the chicken will be incredibly tender and flavorful.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading
Next, while the chicken marinates, prepare the breading mixture. In addition, having everything ready makes the coating process easier.
- In a shallow bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until well combined.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
- Remove chicken from the buttermilk marinade and allow excess liquid to drip off.
- Dip each piece into the flour mixture, then into the whisked eggs, and back into the flour mixture. Consequently, this double coating helps create an extra crispy crust.
- Let the coated chicken rest for 10 minutes before air frying. Because of this, the breading adheres better and doesn’t fall off during cooking.
Step 4: Preheat and Prepare the Air Fryer
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
Step 5: Air Fry the Chicken
- Arrange the breaded chicken in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap.
- Lightly spray the chicken with oil for a crispy texture.
- Air fry for 12 minutes, then flip and cook for another 10-12 minutes until golden brown. In fact, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
After that, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Finally, pair it with your favorite sides or try it with a Grilled Cheese Burrito for a unique combination!
How to Store and Reheat Air Fryer Buttermilk Chicken
Once you’ve made this crispy air fryer chicken, you might have leftovers. In fact, proper storage ensures that your buttermilk crispy chicken stays fresh and delicious.
Storing Leftovers:
- Refrigerator: Place the air fryer fried chicken in an airtight container and store it for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: If you want to store buttermilk chicken in an air fryer for longer, wrap each piece in foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating for Maximum Crispiness:
- Air Fryer: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cook for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Oven: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes on a wire rack.
- Microwave: Not recommended as it makes the healthy fried chicken soggy.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Buttermilk Chicken
The best thing about this homemade air fryer chicken is how well it pairs with different sides. For instance, whether you prefer a classic or a bold twist, there are plenty of options to complete your meal.
Classic Sides:
- Mashed Potatoes & Gravy – A perfect combo with air fryer crispy buttermilk chicken.
- Coleslaw – Adds a fresh crunch to the dish.
- Biscuits – Buttery and flaky, a Southern classic.
Unique Twists:
- Sweet Potato Fries – A healthier alternative to regular fries.
- Mac and Cheese – Creamy and rich, an ideal contrast to the crispiness.
- Pickles & Ranch Dip – Adds a tangy and creamy element to the buttermilk crispy chicken experience.
Different Ways to Use Leftover Air Fryer Chicken
If you have extra crispy air fryer chicken, don’t just reheat it—transform it into a new dish! For example, here are some creative ways to use your buttermilk crispy chicken leftovers.
Tasty Meal Ideas:
- Chicken & Waffles – Pair your air fryer fried chicken with fluffy waffles for a sweet-savory treat.
- Buffalo Chicken Wrap – Toss the chicken in buffalo sauce and wrap it with lettuce and ranch dressing.
- Chicken Caesar Salad – Slice the air fryer crispy buttermilk chicken and add it to a fresh Caesar salad.
Fun Snack Ideas:
- Chicken Sliders – Serve on mini buns with cheese and coleslaw.
- Loaded Nachos – Chop the homemade air fryer chicken and use it as a topping for nachos.
- Chicken Quesadillas – Stuff into a tortilla with cheese and veggies for a crispy snack.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Air Fryer Buttermilk Chicken
Even though this buttermilk crispy chicken is easy to make, small mistakes can affect the final result. Because of this, here are some common errors to watch out for.
Overcrowding the Air Fryer
- Placing too many pieces of crispy air fryer chicken together prevents even cooking. Instead, cook in batches for the best results.
Skipping the Resting Time
- After breading, let the air fryer fried chicken rest for 10 minutes before cooking. This step ensures that the coating sticks properly.
Not Using a Meat Thermometer
- The healthy fried chicken is only fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Always check to ensure food safety.
Best Marinades for Buttermilk Air Fried Chicken
A great marinade can elevate your crispy buttermilk air fryer chicken to the next level. For instance, buttermilk is a classic choice, but there are other ways to infuse flavor into your air fryer crispy chicken tenders.
Classic Buttermilk Marinade
- Buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt make this air fryer crunchy chicken juicy and flavorful.
- Marinate for at least 4 hours (overnight for the best results).
Spicy Cajun Marinade
- If you love bold flavors, try marinating your crispy buttermilk air fried chicken with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and a dash of cayenne.
- This version creates a spicy air fryer chicken with a deep, smoky taste.
Asian-Inspired Soy Ginger Marinade
- Soy sauce, ginger, honey, and garlic add a sweet-savory kick to your air fryer crunchy fried chicken.
- Best paired with rice or stir-fried veggies.
The Science Behind Crispy Buttermilk Air Fryer Chicken
Many people wonder how an air fryer can make air fryer crunchy chicken as crispy as deep frying. In fact, the key is in the air circulation and the right breading technique.
Why Cornstarch Works Wonders
- Cornstarch helps create an ultra-crispy crust, making air fryer crispy buttermilk chicken light and crunchy.
- In contrast, all-purpose flour alone can make the breading dense and heavy.
The Role of Oil Spray
- Even though air fryer crunchy fried chicken uses less oil, spraying a light mist of oil ensures an even, golden crust.
- On the other hand, skipping oil entirely can result in dry, uneven browning.
Resting Time is Key
- Letting the breaded chicken rest before cooking prevents the coating from falling off. Consequently, this creates a uniform crust and keeps the inside juicy.
Air Fryer Chicken Coating Alternatives
If you’re out of flour or cornstarch, there are plenty of ways to achieve a crispy coating for your buttermilk crispy air fryer chicken.
Panko Crumbs for Extra Crunch
- Panko breadcrumbs make crispy buttermilk air fryer chicken even lighter and crunchier.
- For example, coat the chicken in flour, egg, then panko for the best results.
Almond Flour for a Low-Carb Option
- Using almond flour instead of traditional flour makes air fryer crispy chicken tenders keto-friendly.
- Works best when combined with grated Parmesan for extra crunch.
Crushed Cereal for a Fun Twist
- Crushed cornflakes or rice cereal can replace breadcrumbs for a unique take on air fryer crunchy chicken.
- As a result, the coating turns extra crispy with a slightly sweet touch.
How to Make Buttermilk Air Fryer Chicken Without Eggs
Eggs help bind the breading on crispy buttermilk air fryer chicken, but there are great substitutes if you need an egg-free version.
Milk and Cornstarch Slurry
- Mixing cornstarch with milk creates a sticky batter that helps the coating stick to air fryer crunchy fried chicken.
- Moreover, this method keeps the texture light.
Buttermilk and Mustard Blend
- Combining buttermilk with Dijon mustard works as a great alternative to eggs in air fryer crispy buttermilk chicken.
- In fact, mustard also adds a subtle tangy flavor.
Flaxseed or Chia Egg Substitute
- If you prefer plant-based alternatives, mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons water to replace one egg.
- This works well in buttermilk crispy air fryer chicken without affecting the crunch.
Tips for the Crispiest Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken
✅ Use Cornstarch – It creates an extra crispy coating.
✅ Let the Breading Rest – This prevents the coating from falling off.
✅ Spray with Oil – A light mist enhances crunchiness.
✅ Flip Halfway Through – Ensures even cooking.
✅ Avoid Overcrowding – Cook in batches for better airflow.
Similarly, if you love crispy chicken, you might enjoy Chicken Rings as a fun and bite-sized option!
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken is a game-changer for fried chicken lovers who want a healthier yet flavorful alternative to deep frying. Not only that, but this recipe is simple, quick, and adaptable to your preferences. On the other hand, if you want something spicier, you can try adding extra cayenne or dipping the fried chicken in a hot honey glaze.
Looking for more delicious recipes? Check out:
🔗 Tasty – Discover new air fryer recipes.
🔗 AllRecipes – Find creative takes on fried chicken.
🔗 Delish – Get inspired with flavorful dishes.
Enjoy your crispy, flavorful air-fried chicken! 🍗🔥