Air Fryer Whole Chicken (Printable View)

Succulent whole chicken with crispy skin, seasoned and cooked easily for family-friendly healthy dining.

# Ingredient List:

→ Chicken

01 - 1 whole chicken, 3.5 to 4 lbs, giblets removed

→ Spice Rub

02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
04 - 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
05 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
06 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
07 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
08 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

→ Optional Aromatics

09 - 1 lemon, halved
10 - 4 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary

# How to Make It:

01 - Pat the chicken thoroughly dry using paper towels, ensuring the cavity is moisture-free.
02 - Combine olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and dried thyme in a small mixing bowl to form a uniform paste.
03 - Apply the spice rub evenly over the entire chicken, working some of the mixture under the skin and into the cavity.
04 - If desired, place lemon halves and fresh herb sprigs inside the chicken cavity.
05 - Set the air fryer to 360°F and preheat for 3 minutes.
06 - Position the chicken breast-side down in the air fryer basket and cook for 30 minutes.
07 - Carefully flip the chicken breast-side up using tongs. Continue to cook for 25 to 30 minutes more, or until a meat thermometer reads 165°F at the thickest part of the thigh.
08 - Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 10 minutes. Carve and serve warm.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Uses a whole chicken so you get both dark and light meat
  • Relies on budget-friendly pantry spices most cooks already have
  • Ready in just over an hour including prep resting and cook time
  • No basting no watching the oven just set it in the air fryer and let it work
  • Crispy skin without the need for much oil
02 -
  • Rich source of protein and very low in carbs
  • Gluten free and safe for many dietary needs
  • Leftovers are delicious hot or cold and freeze beautifully
03 -
  • For the ultimate crispy skin make sure the bird is bone dry before seasoning
  • Do not crowd the air fryer with extra sides let the heat circulate for even browning
  • Invest in a reliable meat thermometer for perfectly juicy results every single time

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