Treat yourself to a beautifully roasted whole chicken right from your air fryer! This recipe delivers crispy skin and juicy, tender meat with just a few simple seasonings, making it a perfect weeknight staple or a stress-free Sunday dinner. In under an hour, you can achieve a golden, succulent chicken that rivals traditional oven roasting, all with minimal prep and clean-up.
Why you will love this recipe?
You’ll love this air fryer whole chicken recipe because it’s incredibly easy and delicious. The air fryer locks in the juices, ensuring each bite is succulently moist and the skin perfectly crisps. Plus, it’s a healthier option with less oil and hassle-free cleanup, freeing up your time to relax or prepare sides. This method turns an everyday meal into a delightful culinary experience with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- Dried rosemary, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper: These spices enhance the chicken’s flavor with a smoky, savory depth.
- Whole chicken: This central ingredient turns wonderfully juicy and flavorful in the air fryer, which is ideal for any gathering.
- Avocado oil: Helps the seasonings stick and encourages a crispy, golden skin while keeping the taste clean and fresh.
Storing Instructions:
Storing your air fryer whole chicken is simple and convenient, making your delicious meal last longer:
- Refrigerator: Place the leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will remain fresh and flavorful for up to four days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the chicken well and freeze it. It will keep perfectly for up to four months, ready to warm up for a quick and tasty meal whenever needed.
Tips:
To ensure your air fryer whole chicken turns out perfectly every time, here are a few expert tips to keep in mind:
- Size Matters: Make sure the whole chicken you select can fit comfortably in your air fryer basket. This ensures even cooking and the crispiest skin.
- Watch the Clock: Adjust the cooking time depending on the size and weight of your chicken. A smaller bird will cook faster, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
- Season to Taste: Feel free to tweak the seasonings according to your preferences. Whether you like it spicier or with a hint of more herbs, making these adjustments can personalize the dish to suit your taste perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions:
It’s best to fully thaw your chicken before cooking to ensure it cooks evenly and reaches the safe internal temperature. Cooking from partially frozen can result in uneven cooking and a less desirable texture.
Cooking your chicken at 360°F (182°C) is ideal. This temperature allows the chicken to cook through evenly while achieving a crispy skin.
The safest way to check if your chicken is cooked is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the thigh, not touching the bone. This ensures your chicken is both safe to eat and deliciously juicy.
Air Fryer Whole Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 small whole chicken 3-4 pounds
- 2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Rinse the whole chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, combine the dried rosemary, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika and avocado oil. Mix well.
- Rub the skin of the chicken with the mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated.
- Gently place the seasoned whole chicken into the preheated air fryer basket, breast side down.
- Cook the chicken in the air fryer for 60-75 minutes, depending on the size and weight of the chicken. Check for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Flip the chicken halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the whole chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for minutes before carving.
Notes
- Ensure that the whole chicken you choose is small enough to fit comfortably in your
air fryer. - Adjust the cooking time based on the size and weight of the chicken.
- Feel free to add or adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences.
