Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for a no-fuss, flavorful, and juicy whole chicken with crispy skin, this 3-ingredient air fryer recipe is a game changer. Cooking a whole chicken in the air fryer results in a deliciously golden, crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and moist. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can achieve restaurant-quality roasted chicken in the comfort of your home. Plus, it’s healthier than deep-fried alternatives, making it a perfect meal for the whole family.
Ingredients
- Whole chicken
- Olive oil
- Seasoning blend (such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika)
Directions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the whole chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving crispy skin.
- Season the Chicken: Rub olive oil all over the chicken to help the seasoning stick and enhance the crispiness. Sprinkle your chosen seasoning blend generously over the entire chicken, making sure to cover all areas, including under the skin if possible.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 360°F (180°C) and allow it to preheat for about 5 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breast-side down in the air fryer basket. Cook for 30 minutes.
- Flip and Continue Cooking: Carefully flip the chicken using tongs and cook for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) when measured at the thickest part of the chicken.
- Rest Before Serving: Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before carving. This helps retain its juices and enhances flavor.
Variations
- Lemon Herb: Add fresh lemon juice and dried herbs like rosemary and thyme for a fragrant twist.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a spicier flavor profile.
- Garlic Butter: Mix melted butter with minced garlic and brush it over the chicken before air frying.
- BBQ Flavor: Coat the chicken with a light layer of barbecue seasoning or sauce for a smoky taste.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 55-60 minutes
- Total Time: About 1 hour
- Servings: 4-6 servings
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze portions in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness, or use a microwave for a quicker option.
FAQs
How do I ensure the skin gets extra crispy?
Pat the chicken dry thoroughly before adding oil and seasoning. Cooking at a slightly higher temperature for the last few minutes can also help crisp up the skin.
Can I use a frozen whole chicken?
It’s best to fully thaw the chicken before air frying to ensure even cooking.
What size air fryer do I need?
A 5-quart or larger air fryer is recommended to accommodate a whole chicken comfortably.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F at the thickest part of the chicken.
Can I use a different oil instead of olive oil?
Yes, avocado oil or melted butter can be great alternatives for crispiness.
Should I truss the chicken?
Trussing is optional, but it helps the chicken cook evenly and retain its shape.
Can I cook other ingredients with the chicken?
Yes! You can add small potatoes or vegetables around the chicken for a complete meal.
How long should I let the chicken rest before slicing?
Allow at least 10 minutes of resting time to retain juices and improve tenderness.
Can I make this with a skinless whole chicken?
Yes, but the skin helps with crispiness, so you may need to adjust cooking times and add a bit more oil for moisture.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover chicken is great for sandwiches, salads, soups, or tacos!
Conclusion
This 3-ingredient air fryer whole chicken is an easy, delicious way to prepare a flavorful and crispy main dish with minimal effort. Whether you’re making a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a reliable go-to. Try it today and enjoy a perfectly roasted chicken that’s juicy, crispy, and absolutely satisfying!
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3-Ingredient Air Fryer Whole Chicken: Simple, Juicy, and Crispy!
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Description
Make a juicy, crispy, and flavorful whole chicken in the air fryer with just three ingredients! This easy recipe delivers a perfectly roasted chicken with minimal effort—perfect for a family meal.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp seasoning blend (salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for a crispier skin.
- Season the Chicken: Rub olive oil over the entire chicken, then evenly coat with the seasoning blend, including under the skin if possible.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 360°F (180°C) and preheat for 5 minutes.
- Cook Breast-Side Down: Place the chicken breast-side down in the air fryer basket and cook for 30 minutes.
- Flip and Continue Cooking: Using tongs, carefully flip the chicken and cook for another 25-30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Rest Before Serving: Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before carving.
Notes
- Lemon Herb: Add fresh lemon juice and dried herbs like rosemary and thyme.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for more heat.
- Garlic Butter: Brush with melted butter and minced garlic before air frying.
- BBQ Flavor: Use barbecue seasoning or a light BBQ sauce coating.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 55-60 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: air fryer
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: air fryer whole chicken, crispy roasted chicken, 3-ingredient chicken, easy air fryer recipe, juicy chicken recipe
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