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Air Fryer Fried Chicken Recipe

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3.8 from 7 reviews

Crispy and flavorful Air Fryer Fried Chicken made with a crunchy bran flakes coating, seasoned lightly and air fried for a healthier twist on a classic comfort food favorite. This recipe yields tender, juicy drumsticks with a golden crust in just over half an hour.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 8 bone-in drumsticks (skin removed)

Coating

  • 2 ½ cups bran flakes (4 ½ ounces) or gluten-free crushed corn flakes
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt, divided (use less if using regular salt)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)

Other

  • 3 tablespoons light mayonnaise (Hellman’s)
  • Olive oil spray

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken: Season the 8 bone-in, skinless drumsticks evenly with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt to enhance flavor.
  2. Prepare the coating: Crush the bran flakes using a food processor or chopper until they become fine crumbs suitable for coating.
  3. Mix the coating ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed cereal with the remaining salt, paprika, garlic powder, and dried parsley if using. Transfer this mixture to a shallow dish or a ziplock bag for easy coating.
  4. Coat the chicken: Using a cooking brush, apply the light mayonnaise evenly over each drumstick. Then, thoroughly coat each piece in the crushed cereal mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the coating well.
  5. Air fry the chicken: Place the coated drumsticks in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Spray the tops lightly with olive oil spray. Air fry at 370°F (188°C) for 22 to 24 minutes, flipping the drumsticks halfway through cooking and spraying the tops again to ensure a crisp, golden crust and fully cooked chicken.

Notes

  • Removing the skin reduces fat content, making the dish lighter.
  • You can substitute bran flakes with gluten-free crushed corn flakes for a gluten-free option.
  • Brushing with mayonnaise helps the coating stick and adds moisture during air frying.
  • Monitor the air fryer towards the end of cooking to avoid overcooking or burning the coating.
  • Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.