1. Prepare the chicken. Remove the chicken from its packaging and pat it completely dry with paper towels. Dry skin is essential for achieving a crispy, golden exterior in the air fryer.
2. Season generously. Rub the entire chicken with olive oil, making sure to coat all sides evenly. Sprinkle the homemade chicken rub liberally over the skin, rubbing it in well. Do not forget to season inside the cavity for maximum flavor.
3. Preheat the air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (182°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating helps the chicken start cooking evenly from the moment it goes in.
4. Cook the chicken. Place the chicken breast-side down in the air fryer basket. Cook for 30 minutes, then carefully flip the chicken breast-side up. Continue cooking for another 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the thigh.
5. Rest before carving. Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
Serving and Storage:
Serve air fryer rotisserie-style chicken with classic sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, salad, or rice. It also works beautifully for sandwiches, wraps, or shredding into soups and casseroles.
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The cooked chicken can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips:
- Truss the chicken with kitchen twine for more even cooking, if desired.
- If the chicken browns too quickly, reduce the temperature slightly and continue cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked chicken every time.
- Save the bones to make homemade chicken stock.
Conclusion:
Air Fryer Rotisserie Chicken is a simple yet impressive dish that proves you do not need special equipment to enjoy rotisserie-style results at home. With crispy skin, juicy meat, and endless serving options, this recipe is both practical and delicious. Once you try it, it is likely to become a regular part of your cooking routine.
FAQ:
Can I use a frozen chicken?
The chicken should be fully thawed before cooking to ensure even cooking and safe internal temperatures.
What should be in a homemade chicken rub?
Common ingredients include salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and dried herbs.
Does my air fryer need a rotisserie attachment?
No, this recipe works in a standard basket-style air fryer as long as the chicken fits comfortably.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the thigh.
Can I cook a larger chicken?
Yes, but make sure it fits in your air fryer and adjust cooking time as needed.