Air Fryer Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Ready in about 45 minutes.
Updated 7 September 2026
Crunchy, craggy fried chicken with a tangy buttermilk soak for extra tenderness, all without a vat of oil. The air fryer crisps the seasoned crust to golden perfection while keeping the meat juicy inside.
Ingredients
- 8 chicken pieces, drumsticks and thighs
- 300 ml buttermilk
- 200 g plain flour
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Oil spray
Method
- 1Soak the chicken in buttermilk for at least 1 hour or overnight.
- 2Mix the flour with paprika, garlic, onion powder, salt and pepper.
- 3Dredge each piece firmly in the seasoned flour.
- 4Preheat the air fryer to 185°C (365°F) and spray well with oil.
- 5Cook for 22-28 minutes, flipping halfway, until deep golden and crisp.
- 6Check the thickest part reaches 74°C (165°F) before serving.
Tips for the best results
- Spray any floury white patches with oil so they crisp and colour.
- An overnight buttermilk soak gives the most tender result.
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature and time for air fryer buttermilk fried chicken?+
Cook at 185°C / 365°F for 22-28 min, flip halfway.