Buttermilk Marinated Air Fryer Whole Chicken
The ultimate comfort food, Buttermilk Marinated Air Fryer Whole Chicken is juicy, tender, and incredibly flavorful. This easy weeknight dinner will make your home smell amazing and leave everyone wanting more. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, try this dish tonight for a delightful culinary experience!
Equipment
- Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 3 pounds Trimmed Whole Chicken
- Kosher Salt Generously season for flavor.
- 1 pint 1% Buttermilk Provides moisture and tenderness.
Instructions
- Start by preparing the chicken the day before you plan to cook it. Generously season the chicken all over with approximately 2 teaspoons of Kosher salt. This step is crucial, as it helps flavor the meat from the inside out. Let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- For an added touch, you can tie the legs of the chicken together with butcher’s twine. This helps the chicken cook evenly and makes for a beautiful presentation when serving.
- Next, place the seasoned chicken into a large mixing bowl. Pour in the buttermilk and ensure the chicken is fully submerged. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate overnight.
- When you’re ready to cook, remove the chicken from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about an hour.
- Once ready, remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade. Shake off any excess buttermilk and discard it.
- Transfer the chicken to the air fryer basket, ensuring it's placed belly side down. Season the top of the chicken with 1/2 teaspoon of Kosher salt.
- Set the air fryer to 350°F. Cook the chicken for about 25 minutes, or until the top is nicely browned.
- After the initial cooking time, carefully flip the chicken over using tongs. Season the other side with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of Kosher salt.
- Continue cooking for another 25 minutes until the juices run clear.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and transfer it to a platter. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before carving.
- If you prefer to bake instead of air-frying, preheat your oven to 400°F. Bake the chicken until golden and cooked through.
Notes
- Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before wrapping it tightly.
- Pairing: This chicken pairs beautifully with roasted seasonal vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad.
- Adjusting Flavor: Feel free to add spices to the buttermilk for enhanced flavor.
- Cooking Time Variation: Always check the internal temperature, as cooking times may vary.