Copycat Church’s Chicken Fried Chicken

Copycat Church’s Chicken Fried Chicken- Are you craving the irresistible crunch and flavor of Church’s Chicken but looking for a healthier twist?

Our Air Fryer Copycat Church’s Chicken Fried Chicken recipe is here to satisfy your cravings! This recipe brings the classic flavors and crispy texture of Church’s Chicken into your kitchen, with the added benefit of air frying for a healthier alternative.

This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a comfort food feast, ensuring you get that delightful crunch and savory taste without the excess oil. Let’s dive into guilt-free indulgence with this delicious air fryer recipe!

What Is Church’s Chicken Fried Chicken

Church’s Chicken Fried Chicken is a popular menu item from Church’s Chicken, a fast-food restaurant chain known for its Southern-style fried chicken.

The chicken is celebrated for its unique blend of crispy breading and flavorful spices, which gives it a distinct and savory taste. It’s typically deep-fried, resulting in a crunchy exterior and juicy, tender meat. Church’s Chicken has garnered a strong following for this classic dish, which stands as the brand’s signature item, embodying traditional Southern fried chicken flavors.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Here’s why you’ll love the Air Fryer Copycat Church’s Chicken Fried Chicken recipe:

• Healthier Version: Enjoy the classic taste with less oil and fewer calories.
• Crispy and Juicy: The perfect balance of crispy exterior and moist interior is achieved.
• Easy to Make: Simple, perfect for home cooking.
• Convenient: No need for deep frying, making it less messy and more kitchen-friendly.
• Flavorful: Maintains the delicious seasoning blend that Church’s Chicken is known for.

Ingredients Needed For Copycat Church’s Chicken Fried Chicken

Embark on a culinary adventure with our Copycat Church’s Chicken Fried Chicken recipe, where you can recreate the iconic flavors of Church’s Chicken more healthily. This recipe uses a blend of simple yet flavorful ingredients, ensuring that each bite is as satisfying as the original. Let’s look at the key ingredients you’ll need to bring this beloved fast-food classic to your air fryer.

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.

• Chicken Pieces: The dish’s foundation provides a juicy and tender base for the seasonings and coating.
• Buttermilk: Soaking the chicken in buttermilk tenderizes the meat and adds subtle tanginess.
• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the primary coating, giving the chicken its signature crispiness when air-fried.
• Cornflakes: Mixed with flour, it helps to create a crisper, lighter crust.
• Seasoning Mix (like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper): These spices combine to replicate Church’s Chicken’s distinctive flavor.
• Egg: Used in the batter to help the flour mixture adhere to the chicken.
• Hot Sauce: Adds a touch of heat to the marinade, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Each ingredient contributes to recreating the iconic taste of Church’s Chicken Fried Chicken, tailored for a healthier air fryer version.

How To Make Church’s Chicken Fried Chicken

To make Church’s Chicken Fried Chicken in an air fryer, follow these steps:

Marinate the Chicken: Soak the chicken pieces in a mixture of buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the chicken to the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or 24 hours. Then, drain the chicken and discard the buttermilk mixture.

Add: Buttermilk to a bowl. If you want, you can add additional hot sauce.

Prepare the Flour Mixture: Mix all-purpose flour and seasoning in a bowl.

Prepare The Cornstarch Mixture: Add the cornflakes in a food processor and pulse a few times till the cornflakes are smaller but not ground too much.

Dredge the Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken first in the flour mixture, then in the buttermilk mixture, and then into the cornflakes.

Air Fry: Place the coated chicken pieces in the air fryer basket. Spray lightly with cooking oil. Cook at 390 degrees F, set the cook time for 15-20 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through the cooking process.

Serve: Enjoy your crispy, flavorful Church’s Chicken-style fried chicken made healthier in the air fryer.

Recipe Variations

Experimenting with different variations of Air Fryer Church’s Chicken Fried Chicken can add new flavors to this classic dish:

• Spicy Version: Add extra cayenne pepper or a spicy seasoning blend to the flour mixture for a hotter kick.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Herb Infusion: Mix dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano into the flour for an aromatic twist.

Each variation offers a new way to enjoy the crispy and savory flavors of Church’s Chicken Fried Chicken, making it a versatile recipe to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

Pro Tips Church’s Fried Chicken Recipe

Here are some pro tips for making Air Fryer Copycat Church’s Chicken Fried Chicken:

• Proper Marination: Let the chicken marinate in the buttermilk mixture for at least an hour for maximum tenderness.
• Uniform Coating: Ensure each piece of chicken is evenly coated with the flour mixture for a consistent crispy texture.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer, ensuring even cooking and crispiness.
• Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F.

These tips will help you achieve a deliciously crispy and flavorful Church’s Chicken-style fried chicken in your air fryer.

Church’s Fried Chicken Recipe Faq’s

Can I make this recipe with chicken breasts instead of mixed pieces? Chicken breasts can be used, but cooking times may vary based on size and thickness.

Is it necessary to double-coat the chicken? Double coating gives extra crispiness, but it’s optional based on your preference.

Can I use a different type of oil for spraying? Any cooking spray or oil with a high smoke point works well in an air fryer.

How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for the best texture.

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