Air Fryer Spatchcock Chicken
Ready in about 55 minutes.
Updated 7 September 2026
Flattening the bird means it cooks faster and more evenly, with crisp golden skin all over. The air fryer roasts a whole spatchcock chicken in well under an hour, giving you a juicy Sunday-style dinner any night.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken, about 1.5 kg
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Zest of 1 lemon
Method
- 1Using kitchen scissors, cut out the backbone and press the chicken flat.
- 2Pat dry and rub all over with the oil, salt, paprika, garlic, thyme, pepper and lemon zest.
- 3Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (360°F).
- 4Place the chicken skin-side down and cook for 20 minutes.
- 5Flip skin-side up and cook a further 15-25 minutes until golden.
- 6Check the thickest part of the thigh reaches 74°C (165°F), then rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Tips for the best results
- Choose a chicken that fits your basket flat, around 1.4-1.6 kg is ideal.
- Resting lets the juices settle so the meat stays moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature and time for air fryer spatchcock chicken?+
Cook at 180°C / 360°F for 35-45 min, flip halfway.