🍗✨ KFC Chicken in the Air Fryer – Crispy, Juicy, & Even Better Than the Original!
If you’ve ever wished you could enjoy that iconic KFC crunch without the grease, the mess, or the price of takeout, this recipe is about to become your new obsession. This Air Fryer KFC Copycat Chicken delivers all the flavor, all the crispiness, and all the tenderness you expect from the famous bucket—except it’s lighter, easier, and made right in your own kitchen.
For years I thought nothing could beat KFC’s secret blend of herbs and spices… until I tried this. The air fryer locks in the juices, crisps up the coating beautifully, and gives you that irresistible golden crust with only a fraction of the oil. Honestly? It tastes like the real thing—and in my opinion, even better because it’s hot, fresh, and homemade.
This is perfect for weeknight dinners, weekend cravings, family gatherings, or anytime you want that nostalgic fast-food flavor without leaving your house. Everyone who tries it asks for the recipe, and nobody believes how simple it actually is!
⭐ Why This Air Fryer KFC Chicken Works So Well
Crispy on the outside, tender inside thanks to air circulation
Much healthier than deep-fried chicken
Budget-friendly and uses basic pantry spices
Perfect for meal prep—stays crispy when reheated
Kid-approved AND crowd-pleasing
🍗 Ingredients You’ll Need
Chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, breasts, or wings)
1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice)
1 cup flour
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
½ tsp thyme
½ tsp white pepper
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp salt
Optional: pinch of cayenne for heat
Cooking spray or light oil
🔥 How to Make Air Fryer KFC Chicken
- Marinate the chicken: Soak your chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes (overnight is best!).
- Prepare the coating: In a bowl, mix the flour with all the spices. This blend is what gives that classic KFC flavor.
- Coat the chicken: Remove chicken from the buttermilk, shake off excess, and dip each piece into the seasoned flour. Press the coating firmly so it sticks.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray chicken with oil to help it crisp and brown.
- Air fry for 22–28 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown, crispy, and cooked through.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving so the coating sets.
💡 Tips for the Best KFC-Style Crunch
Don’t overcrowd the basket—space = crispiness.
Use bone-in chicken for juicier results.
Spray lightly with oil to help the coating brown.
For extra crunch, double-dip: buttermilk → flour → buttermilk → flour.
😍 Serving Ideas
Pair this with mashed potatoes, fries, coleslaw, biscuits, or mac & cheese for the full KFC experience. Or keep it light with a fresh salad and some roasted veggies.
✨ Final Thoughts
Once you try this homemade KFC Air Fryer Chicken, you won’t crave fast food the same way again. It’s easy, healthier, incredibly flavorful, and so satisfying. Make a double batch because everyone will want seconds!