Quick answer: Dredge 2 lb of chicken pieces in seasoned flour, dip in beaten egg, dredge again, spray lightly with oil and air fry in a single layer at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and 165°F inside.
Mix the coating: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper and cayenne, if using.
Mix the egg wash: In another dish, whisk the eggs with the buttermilk, if using.
Double dredge: Coat each piece in the flour mixture and shake off the excess, dip it in the egg, then press it into the flour mixture again.
Preheat: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
Arrange and spray: Place the chicken in a single layer with space between pieces and spray lightly with oil.
Air fry: Cook for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Rest: Let the chicken rest a few minutes before serving.
Dual basket tip: Split the pieces across both baskets so they stay in a single layer and use Match Cook to run both at 400°F. Larger bone-in pieces may need a few extra minutes.
Best for this recipe: Ninja DZ401 10-QtTwo 5-Qt baskets fit 2 lb of chicken in a single layer. Match Cook copies settings across both.
How Many Calories Are in Fried Chicken? (Estimated)
Per serving (1/4 of recipe): about 420 calories, 20 g fat (5 g saturated), 13 g carbohydrate, 1 g fiber, 1 g sugar, 44 g protein, and 450 mg sodium. These are estimates, not lab values. Estimated from standard USDA values for mixed chicken pieces with skin, the egg, and the portion of flour coating that typically adheres. Actual values depend on the cuts used.
What Flavor Variations Can You Try?
Spicy: double the cayenne and add a dash of hot sauce to the egg wash
Herb: add 1 tsp dried thyme and 1/2 tsp dried oregano to the flour
Boneless tenders: use chicken tenders and cook about 10 to 12 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does fried chicken take in an air fryer?
About 20 minutes at 400°F for mixed pieces, flipping halfway. Large bone-in breasts can take longer; always check for 165°F.
How do you keep the coating from being powdery?
Spray any dry flour spots lightly with oil before cooking and again after flipping.
Do you need buttermilk?
No. It is optional and adds tenderness and tang. Plain beaten eggs work.
Can I cook fried chicken in a dual basket air fryer?
Yes. Split the pieces across both baskets in a single layer and use Match Cook so both baskets run at 400°F.
