How to Cook a Whole Chicken in the air fryer

Hey readers,

Roast chicken is one of those timeless comfort meals: crispy skin, juicy meat, and that irresistible golden-brown finish. 

Traditionally, it requires a hot oven and a fair bit of patience, but with an air fryer, you can achieve the same results in a fraction of the time.

If you’ve ever wondered how to make roast chicken in your air fryer, this step-by-step guide will walk you through it.

Why Roast Chicken in the Air Fryer?

Time-saving: An air fryer cooks faster than an oven, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. 

Healthier option: Less oil is required, but you still get that crispy, golden skin.

Consistently juicy: The circulating hot air locks in moisture.

Ingredients. 

* 1 whole chicken (about 3–4 pounds, small enough to fit in your air fryer).

* 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter.

* 1 teaspoon salt.

* 1 teaspoon black pepper.

* 1 teaspoon garlic powder.

* 1 teaspoon paprika (for color and flavour).

* ½ teaspoon onion powder.

* Fresh herbs (optional: rosemary, thyme, parsley).

*Lemon wedges (optional, for serving).

Instructions.

1. Prepare the Chicken.

* Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Dry skin = crispy skin.

* Rub the chicken all over with olive oil or melted butter.

* Mix your seasonings in a small bowl, then coat the chicken generously inside and out.

2. Preheat Your Air Fryer.

* Set your air fryer to 360°F (180°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes.

3. Cook the Chicken.

* Place the chicken breast side down in the air fryer basket.

* Cook for 30 minutes, then carefully flip it breast side up.

* Continue cooking for another 25–30 minutes, or until the internal.

* Temperature reaches **165°F (74°C)** at the thickest part of the thigh.

4. Rest Before Carving.

* Remove the chicken and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving. This helps the juices redistribute for maximum flavor.

Tips for Success.

Check the size of your fryer: Not all air fryers fit a whole chicken.

If yours doesn’t, you can spatchcock (butterfly) the chicken to make it fit.

Avoid overcrowding.

Air circulation is key for that golden crispiness.

Experiment with flavours: Swap paprika for smoked paprika, or try a lemon-herb rub for something fresh.

Serving Ideas.

Pair your air fryer roast chicken with:

* Roasted vegetables (you can make them in the air fryer too!).

*A crisp side salad.

* Garlic mashed potatoes.

* Fresh bread for soaking up those juices

Making roast chicken in the air fryer is a game-changer.

It’s fast, fuss-free, and the results are every bit as delicious as oven-roasted. 

Once you try it, you may never go back to the traditional way.

Cheers for reading X