Air Fryer Buttermilk Marinade Chicken Breast— If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy air fryer recipe, look no further than this air fryer buttermilk-soaked chicken. The buttermilk soak helps to keep the chicken moist and juicy, while the air fryer cooks it up to crispy perfection. So easy and so tasty – give this recipe a try today!
The buttermilk adds a great coating to the chicken, which prevents it from drying out. The buttermilk also acts as a tenderizer, so soaking the chicken overnight or for a few hours, makes your chicken nice and moist.
A simple flavoring and a few spices and you have a great chicken dinner. The chicken is moist and delicious.
What Is Air Fryer Buttermilk Soaked Chicken Breasts?
If you love crispy chicken but are looking for a healthier option, look no further than air frying. Air frying is a great way to cook chicken that is both crispy and moist. In this recipe, we soak the chicken in buttermilk before air frying it, which helps keep it juicy and tender. So give this delicious and healthy recipe a try today!
Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Buttermilk Marinade Chicken
Here are the simple ingredients, you will need for making air fryer buttermilk chicken breasts.
Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast: Provides a lean protein base perfect for air frying.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Enhance flavor.
- Thyme: Adds a touch of aromatic thyme for a savory depth.
- Buttermilk: Marinate the chicken in tangy buttermilk, ensuring tender and juicy results with a subtle hint of richness.
How To Make Air Fryer Buttermilk Chicken Breasts
Making air fryer buttermilk marinade chicken breast is simple and results in tender, flavorful chicken. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Start by cleaning the chicken, by removing the fat. Season your chicken, salt, pepper, and thyme. Then soak your chicken breasts into buttermilk.
Let marinate for a few hours or overnight, and then place the chicken breast into the air fryer basket. Set the air fryer temperature for 390 degrees F, and set cook time for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway during the cooking process. Check the internal temperature of the chicken it should be a temperature of 165 degrees F.
Air Fryer Buttermilk Marinade Chicken Breast Recipe Tips
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Pound the Chicken: If the chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, use a meat mallet to pound them to an even thickness. This ensures even cooking and prevents some parts from drying out while others are undercooked.
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Marinating Time: Marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but for the best flavor and tenderness, aim for 12-24 hours. The longer marinating time allows the buttermilk and spices to fully penetrate the meat.
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Use Fresh Buttermilk: Fresh buttermilk will give the best flavor and texture. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for about 10 minutes before using.
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Seasoning Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the seasoning in the marinade to your taste. You can add spices like cayenne pepper for heat, smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the chicken breasts in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. If necessary, cook in batches. Overcrowding can prevent proper air circulation, leading to uneven cooking.
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Flip for Even Cooking: Flip the chicken halfway through cooking. This helps to ensure even browning and cooking on both sides.
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Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken to get an accurate reading.
Air Fryer Buttermilk Marinade Chicken Breast Recipe Faqs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, you can use chicken thighs. Adjust the cooking time as thighs may take slightly longer to cook than breasts. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
How long should I marinate the chicken? Marinate for at least 1 hour, but for the best flavor and tenderness, marinate for 12-24 hours. Longer marinating times allow the buttermilk and spices to fully penetrate the meat.
What if I don’t have buttermilk? You can make a buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for about 10 minutes before using.
Can I freeze the marinated chicken? Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before cooking.
How can I ensure the chicken is cooked through? Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (74°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken for an accurate reading.
Can I add other spices or herbs to the marinade? Absolutely! Feel free to customize the marinade with additional spices such as cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, thyme, or rosemary.
What should I do if my air fryer basket is small? Cook the chicken in batches if necessary. Avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure even cooking and proper air circulation.
How can I achieve a crispy coating on the chicken? For a crispy coating, dredge the marinated chicken breasts in seasoned breadcrumbs or panko before air frying. Lightly spray the coated chicken with cooking oil before air frying.
How long should I cook the chicken in the air fryer? Cook the chicken breasts at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Adjust the time based on the thickness of the chicken and your air fryer model.
What sides go well with air fryer buttermilk marinade chicken breast? Some great side options include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, a fresh green salad, coleslaw, or rice pilaf.
Can I use this marinade for grilling or baking the chicken? Yes, this buttermilk marinade works well for grilling or baking. Adjust the cooking time and method accordingly.
What should I do with leftover marinade? Discard any leftover marinade that has been in contact with raw chicken to avoid cross-contamination. You can make extra marinade to use as a sauce by keeping it separate from the raw chicken and cooking it thoroughly.
What To Serve With Buttermilk Air Fryer Chicken Breast
This dish goes with so many side dishes, anything from a simple salad, to a large plate of Air Fryer Macaroni And Cheese. Here are some of my favorite side dishes:
- AIR FRYER SWEET POTATO CHIPS
- AIR FRYER SYRACUSE SALTED POTATOES
- BREAKFAST POTATOES IN THE AIR FRYER
- AIR FRYER LOADED POTATO SKINS
- AIR FRYER CHEESY HASSELBACK POTATOES
More Easy Air Fryer Recipes
- AIR FRYER CHICKEN AND GRAVY BISCUIT SANDWICH
- AIR FRYER CRACK CHICKEN CRESCENT BITES
- EASY AIR FRYER ONE PAN HONEY LEMON CHICKEN AND ASPARAGUS
- AIR FRYER SHREDDED CHICKEN
- AIR FRYER CHICKEN THIGHS WITH A HOMEMADE DRY RUB
- EASY AIR FRYER CHICKEN CORDON BLEU
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Air Fryer Buttermilk Marinade Chicken Breast
Description
Ingredients
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon ground thyme
- 1 cup buttermilk
Instructions
- Start by cleaning the chicken by removing the fat.
- Season your chicken, salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Then soak your chicken breasts into buttermilk.
- Let marinate for a few hours or overnight, and then place the chicken breast into the air fryer basket.
- Set the air fryer temperature to 390 degrees F for 8 minutes. After 4 minutes, flip the chicken and air fry for another 3 minutes. Check the internal temperature of the chicken; it should be a temperature of 165 degrees F.
Equipment
- Air Fryer
- Cooking Spray
- Parchment Paper, optional
Notes
Mustard Sauce for Chicken
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or water)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped shallot. Sauté until they become fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, and honey to the saucepan. Stir to combine and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
- Pour in the apple cider vinegar (or white wine vinegar) and chicken broth. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Nutrition
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