Air Fryer Rotisserie Chicken Recipe
Description
This Air Fryer Rotisserie Chicken is juicy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and packed with flavor. Using an air fryer reduces cooking time while maintaining all the deliciousness of a traditional rotisserie chicken. It’s perfect for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or a healthier alternative to store-bought rotisserie chicken.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 3.5 to 4 lbs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
- 1 lemon (cut into wedges)
- 4 garlic cloves (whole)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken dry using paper towels—this helps the skin crisp up.
- Remove any excess fat, giblets, or neck if included.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil (or melted butter) with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and cayenne pepper.
- Rub the seasoning mix all over the chicken, including under the skin and inside the cavity.
- Stuff the cavity with lemon wedges and garlic cloves for extra flavor.
Step 3: Truss the Chicken (Optional but Recommended)
- Use kitchen twine to tie the legs together and tuck the wings under—this helps with even cooking.
Step 4: Air Fry the Chicken
- Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (180°C) for 5 minutes.
- Place the chicken breast side down in the air fryer basket or rotisserie spit if your air fryer has one.
- Cook for 30 minutes, then flip the chicken breast side up.
- Continue cooking for 25-30 more minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the breast.
- Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving to allow juices to redistribute.
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Rotisserie Chicken
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness—overcooking will dry out the meat.
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to ensure crispy skin.
- Rotate the chicken carefully to ensure even cooking.
- Let it rest before carving for the juiciest results.
- Experiment with seasonings like lemon pepper, Cajun, or rosemary for different flavors.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
- Shred leftovers for sandwiches, wraps, tacos, or soups.
Servings: 4-6
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 6 Servings)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 42g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sodium: 500mg
(Values may vary depending on portion size and ingredients used.)
Health Benefits of Air Fryer Rotisserie Chicken
✅ High in Protein – Supports muscle growth and keeps you full longer.
✅ Lower in Fat – Uses less oil than traditional rotisserie or fried chicken.
✅ Rich in Vitamins & Minerals – Contains iron, B vitamins, and zinc for immune and energy support.
✅ Gluten-Free & Keto-Friendly – Perfect for various dietary needs.
Q&A (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Can I use a larger chicken?
Yes, but you may need to increase cooking time. A 5-6 lb chicken might need an additional 10-15 minutes in the air fryer.
2. Can I cook a frozen whole chicken?
It’s best to thaw the chicken completely before air frying for even cooking.
3. What if my air fryer doesn’t have a rotisserie function?
No problem! Just place the chicken in the air fryer basket and flip it halfway through.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
5. How can I reheat without drying it out?
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until warm.
This Air Fryer Rotisserie Chicken is a game-changer—crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor in less time than oven roasting. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious, homemade rotisserie-style chicken! 🍗🔥