Air Fryer Popeyes Fried Chicken Recipe

Enjoy the crispy, flavorful taste of Popeyes-style fried chicken made healthier in the air fryer! This easy recipe delivers juicy, tender chicken with a perfectly seasoned, crunchy coating, bringing the classic fast-food favorite right to your kitchen.”

I don’t know about you, but I love Popeyes fried chicken. It is definitely my favorite fast-food chicken.

If you love all things Popeyes, try my recipe for Copycat Popeye’s Seafood Po’Boy Recipe, Air Fryer Popeyes Blackened Chicken Sandwiches, Air Fryer Copycat Popeyes Cajun Flounder Sandwich, or Copycat Popeyes Tartar Sauce.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Crispy Texture: The air fryer creates a perfectly crispy coating that mimics traditional deep-fried chicken, giving you that satisfying crunch.
• Quick Cooking Time: With the air fryer, you can achieve deliciously cooked chicken in a fraction of the time compared to conventional frying methods.
• Juicy and Tender: The air fryer locks in moisture, ensuring your chicken remains juicy and tender on the inside.
• Easy Cleanup: Cooking in an air fryer means less mess and easier cleanup compared to frying in oil, making it a convenient choice for busy cooks.
• Flavorful Seasoning: The blend of spices and herbs delivers a bold, mouthwatering flavor reminiscent of your favorite fast-food fried chicken.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or biscuits, for a complete meal everyone will love.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Popeyes Fried Chicken

• Fryer Chicken: You can either use a whole fryer chicken that has been cut up, or uses chicken thighs, chicken drumsticks, chicken tenders, or chicken breasts.
• Buttermilk: I gave you some suggestions if you don’t have buttermilk below.
• Hot Sauce: You can also use Popeye’s signature spice since they use Louisiana-style hot sauce.
• Eggs: Use large, room-temperature eggs.
• Self-Rising Flour: You can either use prepared or make a batch for yourself.
• Seasonings and Spices: Chili Powder, Paprika, Cayenne Pepper, Kosher Salt, and Black Pepper.

How to Make Popeyes Fried Chicken Recipe In Air Fryer

To Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, add the buttermilk, and hot sauce, then add the chicken. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

Dry The Chicken: To get the crispiest fried chicken, use paper towels, and dry the chicken.

Prepare Your Dredging Stations: In the first bowl add the flour and seasonings. In the second large bowl add the eggs, and 1/4 cup of hot sauce, and whisk with a fork, until frothy.

Coat The Chicken: Dip the chicken into the flour mixture, using your hands to pat down the seasonings and flour, and then dredge the chicken into the egg mixture, shaking off any excess, and then place the chicken into the flour and seasonings.

Air Fry: Spray your air fryer basket with cooking spray, then add the coated chicken. Spray the chicken generously, with cooking spray. Cook the chicken at 390 degrees F and set cook time for 12 to 15 minutes. the cooking time will depend on the thickness of the chicken, remove the chicken when the chicken’s internal temperature is 165 degrees F.

Air Fryer Popeyes Chicken Recipe Tips

• Crowding the air fryer basket can lead to uneven cooking, so make sure to spread out your chicken pieces as much as possible.
• Marinating the chicken in buttermilk or a mixture of hot sauce and spices before cooking will add extra flavor and help keep the chicken juicy.
• Keep an eye on the timing and temperature suggested by your specific air fryer, as this can vary based on model and size. Adjust cooking time if needed for properly cooked and crispy chicken.
• Serve with a side of Popeye’s signature spicy dipping sauce for even more flavor. Enjoy your homemade, healthier version of fried chicken

Air Fryer Popeyes Fried Chicken Recipe Faqs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe? Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s recommended to thaw it first to ensure even cooking and better seasoning absorption.

What type of chicken should I use? You can use bone-in or boneless chicken pieces, such as thighs, drumsticks, or breasts, depending on your preference.

How do I ensure the chicken stays crispy? Make sure to coat the chicken evenly with the seasoned flour and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, which can lead to steaming instead of frying.

Can I use different spices for seasoning? Absolutely! Feel free to customize the seasoning blend to suit your taste, whether you prefer it spicier or milder.

What should I serve with the fried chicken? Classic sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or biscuits pair perfectly with Popeyes Fried Chicken for a complete meal.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep? Yes, you can prepare the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just cook it fresh when you’re ready to eat!

How do I know when the chicken is done? The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) when fully cooked. You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

How To Reheat Popeyes Fried Chicken In The Air Fryer

There’s nothing quite like a delicious Popeyes meal, but sometimes you can’t finish it all in one sitting. Instead of letting your food go to waste, follow these simple steps to reheat Popeyes in the air fryer. You’ll have a tasty meal in no time!

• Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Place the Popeyes in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
• Cook for about 5 minutes, or until heated through and crispy on the outside.
• Enjoy your reheated Popeyes!

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