Roasted chicken is a classic fall dish that is perfect for feeding a group. It typically takes a long time to cook in a traditional oven, so using an air fryer can cut down the cooking time by 15 to 20%. Air fryer chicken is simple to make and provides a crispy skin with moist, tender meat. The air fryer’s hot moving air provides high heat that crisps the outer layers of the chicken better than a convection oven.
To cook a whole chicken in an air fryer, you will need a 4-quart or larger model. Many air fryers are capable of handling a 3- to 4-pound chicken comfortably. The cooking chamber of an air fryer is smaller than a full-size oven, resulting in more consistent temperatures throughout the cooking process. The air fryer envelops the food with hot air and manages to crispen the outer layers efficiently.
For preparing air fryer roasted chicken, minimal prep is required. A quick marinade of olive oil, grain mustard, salt, pepper, and seasoning blend is whisked together before stuffing the chicken with orange, green onion, and parsley. The chicken is then cooked in the air fryer at 360 degrees Fahrenheit for 55 minutes, flipping after 25 minutes. It is essential to keep a close eye on the chicken towards the end of the cooking process to prevent burning the skin.
The air fryer roasted chicken can be served with rice, potatoes, or other root vegetables cooked alongside in the air fryer basket. Careful monitoring is required to prevent the skin from burning due to the intense heat of the air fryer. The chicken is cooked when an internal thermometer reads 160 degrees Fahrenheit when inserted into the thickest part of the breast. Once cooked, allow the chicken to stand for 5 minutes before serving, and pour any juices from the air fryer basket over the sliced chicken or use them to make gravy.
In conclusion, air fryer roasted chicken is a convenient and delicious way to prepare a whole chicken in a shorter amount of time compared to traditional methods. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, you can enjoy a perfect roasted chicken with crispy skin and tender meat using an air fryer. By following the cooking instructions and keeping a close eye on the cooking process, you can achieve a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for any fall meal.
