Phil's Southern Style Air Fried Chicken

Hey there, fellow food enthusiasts! Are you all set to embark on a flavor-packed journey through the heart of Southern USA, without even stepping outside your home? Well, buckle up, because today, I'm beyond thrilled to introduce a phenomenal recipe that will have everyone buzzing with excitement – the Southern Style Air Fried Chicken, by me, Phil! This isn't just any meal; it's a culinary experience that elevates comfort food to an extraordinary level of delight.

Imagine biting into perfectly seasoned, succulent chicken with a golden, crispy exterior that crackles with every bite. That's exactly what you get with this Southern Style Air Fried Chicken, a dish that promises to satisfy your cravings and impress your dinner guests. And here's the kicker – it's air-fried. This means you can indulge in that irresistible crispy texture without the heaviness of traditional frying methods. It's a win-win for both your taste buds and your wellness goals. 🍗✨

So, are you ready to transform your kitchen into the ultimate Southern diner? Read on for the recipe that's guaranteed to make this meal a memorable one. Trust me; this finger-licking good masterpiece is bound to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Let's bring the warmth and soul of Southern cooking into our homes, one delicious bite at a time.

What You’ll Need:

Chicken: 8 pieces for sharing (or not, we don’t judge!)
Marinade: 2 1/2 cups buttermilk and as much hot sauce as your heart desires
Seasonings: A mix of seasoned salt, black pepper, granulated garlic (or garlic powder), onion powder, and a dash of paprika to taste
For the Crust: All-purpose flour, a bit of cornstarch for that extra crisp, and large eggs to bind it all together
Miscellaneous: Cooking spray or an oil spritzer to prevent any sticky situations

Cooking Time:

Get ready to invest about 1 hour and 30 minutes of your time, which, believe me, is totally worth it for the deliciousness that awaits. It could be much less, depending on your proficiency with working with chicken. Consider it an adventure in cooking!

Nutritional Info (Per Serving):

For those who like to keep an eye on what they’re eating, each serving comes out to about:

Calories: 350
Protein: 34g
Fat: 14g
And some other bits and bobs (carbs, fiber, sugars, and sodium)

Remember, these numbers are just a rough guide. Actual figures can vary a little.

The Air Frying Magic:

Discover the secrets to achieving the juiciest and most flavorful chicken with the magic of air frying. Follow these detailed steps to master the art of air-fried chicken that will impress anyone who tries it.

1. Prep Work: Begin your culinary adventure by marinating your chicken in a buttermilk and hot sauce mixture. This is the cornerstone of the recipe, ensuring your chicken is not only tender but packed with flavor. For optimal results, let the chicken marinate overnight, absorbing all the wonderful flavors. However, if you find yourself pressed for time, marinating for an hour will still work wonders.

2. Season & Dredge: The next phase involves a two-step process that's crucial for adding depth of flavor and achieving that perfect crunch. Start by mixing your chosen dry seasonings to create a rich and aromatic blend. Coat your chicken pieces thoroughly in this seasoning mix, ensuring every nook and cranny is covered. Next, dredge the seasoned chicken in a flour-cornstarch mixture, which is the key to a crispy exterior. Follow this by a quick dunk in beaten eggs, which acts as a glue for the final coat in the flour mixture. Yes, we double-dip here to ensure that every bite is encased in a crispy, flavorful shell.

3. Fry to Perfection: Now, the magic really begins. Preheat your air fryer to ensure it's ready to transform your prepared chicken into a masterpiece. Lightly spray the basket with oil to prevent sticking, and arrange your chicken pieces in a single layer, allowing enough space for air to circulate freely. This ensures even cooking and the perfect crunch. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through to guarantee a uniformly golden brown crust. The goal is to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), which signifies perfectly cooked chicken.

4. Serve and Enjoy: After achieving air-fried perfection, allow your chicken to rest for a few minutes. This brief pause lets the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is succulent. Now is the perfect time to gather your friends and family, as the irresistible aroma wafting through the kitchen will surely have them eager to taste your culinary creation.

By following these detailed steps, you'll unlock the full potential of your air fryer and create a chicken dish that's not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to traditional frying. Enjoy the crunch, savor the flavors, and bask in the compliments from your impressed guests.

What Sides Shall We Have?

The perfect sides for our Southern Style Air Fried Chicken are indispensable for creating an unforgettable dining experience. To complement the crispy and savory chicken, the sides should be equally delightful and enhance the overall meal. Here are a few suggestions to complete your Southern feast:

Creamy Mac and Cheese: A classic comfort food that pairs perfectly with fried chicken. Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of mac and cheese for the ultimate comfort meal. Keep an eye out for a recipe for this soon, if you don't already have your own family special.

Macaroni Cheese - The Classic Southern Side.

Collard Greens: Adding some greens to your plate not only provides balance but also adds another layer of flavor. Cooked with bacon or smoked ham hocks, collard greens elevate the Southern vibe of this meal. You can substitute collard greens for any dense leafy green you have available, such as silverbeet, or even spinach.
Cornbread: No Southern feast is complete without some cornbread on the side. The soft and crumbly texture complements the crispy chicken perfectly.
Baked Beans: Another classic staple in Southern cuisine, baked beans add a touch of sweetness and depth to the meal.
Peach Cobbler: Finally, for a sweet finish, indulge in a warm and comforting peach cobbler. The combination of juicy peaches and buttery crust is the perfect ending to this Southern feast. Top it with a scoop of ice cream and/or whipped cream, and then tell yourself you'll go for a run tomorrow. Maybe two.

Time to Dine:

Take your taste buds on a culinary adventure through the heart of the South with this mouthwatering Southern Style Air Fried Chicken recipe. The crispy, golden-brown coating paired with tender, juicy chicken is sure to transport you to a porch swing on a warm summer evening. Don't miss out on the opportunity to elevate your meal with classic Southern sides like creamy coleslaw, fluffy biscuits, and sweet cornbread, completing the quintessential Southern dining experience.

Gather your loved ones around the table, set the air fryer aglow, and savor each delectable bite that embodies the rich flavors of the South. Let the tantalizing aroma fill your kitchen as you embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the traditions and flavors of Southern cuisine. Happy cooking and bon appétit!

Disclaimer: This recipe may cause uncontrollable cravings and a desire for seconds. 🍗🤤

Things To Know:

Instead of using traditional frying methods, air-frying allows you to indulge in your favorite fried foods with less oil and fewer calories.
The buttermilk and hot sauce marinade adds a tangy kick that elevates the flavor of the chicken.
The two-step seasoning process ensures every bite is packed with flavor and has a crispy exterior.
Air frying allows for even cooking and results in a perfectly golden brown crust.
Pairing the chicken with classic Southern sides creates a well-rounded and satisfying meal. So, don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations of sides to find your perfect match.
And remember, this recipe can easily be adjusted for larger or smaller batches, making it perfect for any occasion. So whether you're cooking for a crowd or just craving some delicious fried chicken, this recipe has got you covered. 🍗🔥👨‍🍳 Keep on air frying and enjoying the magic! ✨

Ready, Set, Cook!

Whip out that air fryer and get ready to indulge in a mouthwatering culinary experience with this delightful Southern Style Air Fried Chicken recipe. A perfect blend of crispy goodness and juicy tenderness awaits as you savor the flavors reminiscent of the South. The aroma of this dish will transport you to a place of warmth and comfort, bringing a touch of Southern hospitality right to your dining room table. Pair this delectable chicken with your choice of savory sides, whether it's creamy mashed potatoes, buttery cornbread, or tangy coleslaw, for a complete and satisfying meal that will surely delight your taste buds. Witness the magic unfold as each bite disappears before your eyes, leaving you craving for more. Get ready for a culinary adventure filled with joy and flavor that will make your taste buds sing. Happy Cooking!

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