Air Fryer Whole Chicken

Air Fryer Whole Chicken

Ingredients:

  • 1 whole chicken (3 to 4 pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or your favorite herbs
  • Optional: lemon wedges, fresh herbs for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
    • Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (182°C).
  2. Prepare the Chicken:
    • Pat the whole chicken dry with paper towels. This helps achieve crispy skin.
    • Rub the chicken with olive oil, making sure to coat it evenly.
  3. Season the Chicken:
    • In a small bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried thyme.
    • Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the chicken, rubbing it into the skin and cavity.
  4. Place in the Air Fryer:
    • Place the seasoned chicken in the air fryer basket or on the air fryer tray. If your air fryer is small, you may need to truss the chicken with kitchen twine to fit it in.
  5. Cooking Time:
    • Cook the chicken at 360°F (182°C) for about 30 minutes. Then, flip the chicken over and continue cooking for an additional 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Check for Doneness:
    • Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature at the thickest part of the chicken, avoiding the bone. The juices should run clear, indicating that the chicken is fully cooked.
  7. Resting Time:
    • Allow the chicken to rest for about 10 minutes before carving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
  8. Serve:
    • Carve the chicken into pieces and serve. Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges if desired.