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Juicy Whole Chicken in Air Fryer with Crispy Skin

A golden brown, crispy-skinned air fryer whole roast chicken resting on a white plate.
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Cook a whole chicken in your air fryer for a quick, juicy result with perfectly crisp skin. This simple recipe uses basic seasoning for a healthy, weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 whole chicken (about 3 to 4 lbs)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 lemon, halved
  • 4 sprigs fresh rosemary

Instructions

  1. Remove the chicken from its packaging. Take out any giblets or neck from the cavity. Pat the entire chicken, inside and out, completely dry using paper towels. This step is key for crispy skin.
  2. In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika to create your simple seasoning blend.
  3. Rub the olive oil all over the exterior of the chicken. Sprinkle the seasoning blend evenly over the skin, rubbing it in gently.
  4. Place the lemon halves and rosemary sprigs inside the chicken cavity.
  5. If your air fryer basket is large enough, place the chicken directly in the basket, breast-side up. If the chicken is too large, you may need to use a small, oven-safe rack designed for air fryers to keep it elevated, or cook a smaller bird. Do not overcrowd the basket.
  6. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C) for 5 minutes.
  7. Place the seasoned chicken in the preheated air fryer basket. Cook for 40 minutes.
  8. After 40 minutes, carefully flip the chicken over using tongs. Increase the temperature to 380°F (195°C).
  9. Continue cooking for another 15 to 25 minutes, or until the skin is deep golden brown and crispy.
  10. Check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone. The chicken is safe to eat when it reaches 165°F (74°C).
  11. Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the air fryer. Let it rest on a cutting board for 10 minutes before carving. This resting period keeps the meat juicy.

Notes

  • If your air fryer is smaller, you may need to cook the chicken at 360°F (180°C) for the entire duration, checking frequently to prevent burning.
  • For extra crispy skin, you can lightly brush the skin with a small amount of baking powder mixed with salt before seasoning.
  • Always use a meat thermometer to confirm the safe internal temperature for poultry.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://pureplatepath.com/air-fryer-whole-roast-chicken-recipe/