How long do you cook a whole chicken in the air fryer?

For a 4 to 5 lb chicken, cook at 360°F for 50 to 55 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway through for even browning. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh.

How long do we have to cook chicken in an air fryer?

It depends on the cut. For a whole chicken, you’ll need around 50–60 minutes. Chicken breasts take about 20 minutes, while wings may be done in just 18. Always rely on a meat thermometer, not just time.

Is whole chicken better in the oven or air fryer?

The air fryer gives you faster cooking, crispier skin, and juicier meat with less effort. It’s perfect for everyday cooking, while the oven might still be best for larger birds or special occasions.

How to cook the perfect whole chicken?

Start with a dry, well-seasoned bird. Preheat the air fryer, cook at 360°F, flip halfway, and rest the chicken after cooking. Use a meat thermometer and don’t rush the resting time—those are the keys to a perfect whole chicken air fryer recipe .

Whole Chicken Air Fryer Recipe | 1-Hour Easy Crispy Dinner

Name: Whole Chicken Air Fryer Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken (4–5 lbs); 1 tsp paprika; 1 tbsp garlic powder; 1 tbsp onion powder; 1 tbsp black pepper; 1 tbsp salt (or to taste); 1 tbsp olive oil (optional); Fresh herbs or lemon slices (optional)

Description

The ultimate whole chicken air fryer recipe with crispy golden skin and juicy, tender meat. Ready in under an hour with simple seasoning and zero hassle.

Ingredients

Scale

1 whole chicken (4–5 lbs)

1 tsp paprika

1 tbsp garlic powder

1 tbsp onion powder

1 tbsp black pepper

1 tbsp salt (or to taste)

1 tbsp olive oil (optional)

Fresh herbs or lemon slices (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 360°F for 3–5 minutes.

2. Remove the giblets from the chicken and pat it dry thoroughly.

3. Mix all seasonings in a bowl and rub evenly over the chicken.

4. Drizzle olive oil to help the skin crisp, if desired.

5. Stuff the cavity with fresh herbs or lemon slices if using.

6. Place chicken breast-side down into the air fryer basket.

7. Air fry at 360°F for 30 minutes.

8. Flip the chicken breast-side up and cook for 20–25 more minutes.

9. Check that the internal temp reaches 165°F in the thigh.

10. Remove and rest the chicken for 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Dry the chicken completely before seasoning to get crispy skin.

Save leftover meat for sliders, salads, or casseroles.

Use the bones to make broth for future soups.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 6 oz
Calories: 410
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 17g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 1g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 39g
Cholesterol: 120mg