Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that's as impressive as it is simple? Say hello to Air Fried Spatchcock Chicken—your new go-to recipe for juicy, flavorful chicken with perfectly crispy skin! In just 40 minutes, you can serve a mouthwatering meal that will leave your family and friends begging for seconds. This American classic not only delivers on taste but also offers a delightful cooking experience that will make you feel like a culinary pro. Get ready to unleash the magic of your air fryer and discover the secrets to this delectable dish!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (182°C) for about 5 minutes while you prepare the chicken.
- Rinse the whole chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Place the chicken breast-side down on a cutting board. Using kitchen shears or a sharp knife, cut along both sides of the backbone to remove it. Open the chicken like a book and flatten it out, pressing down firmly on the breastbone to break it slightly.
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This will be your marinade.
- Rub the marinade all over the chicken, making sure to coat both sides evenly. Pay special attention to the skin side to ensure it gets crispy during cooking.
- Once the chicken is well-coated, place it skin-side up in the air fryer basket. Make sure it fits comfortably without being folded or crammed.
- Cook the chicken in the air fryer for about 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked at the thickest part of the breast and thigh.
- Halfway through the cooking time, around the 15-minute mark, check the chicken. If it appears to be browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful chicken.
- After resting, carve the chicken into portions and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious air-fried spatchcock chicken with your favorite sides!
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for a fresh, organic chicken if possible. A 3-4 pound bird will cook evenly and yield succulent meat.
- Pat It Dry: Make sure to thoroughly dry the chicken with paper towels before marinating. This step is crucial for achieving that coveted crispy skin.
- Season Generously: Don't skimp on the marinade! Ensure you coat every inch of the chicken, especially the skin, to enhance flavor and texture.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your chicken during cooking. If it starts to brown too quickly, gently cover it with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the inside cooks through.
- Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking. This lets the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
- Pair It Right: Serve your spatchcock chicken with your favorite sides—think roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad—to create a well-rounded meal.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to customize the seasoning! Try adding garlic powder, paprika, or lemon zest to the marinade for a unique twist.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 0g
Protein: 40g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 120mg