Craving fried chicken but want a lighter option? The air fryer delivers crispy, golden results using far less oil than traditional deep frying. This Air Fryer Fried Chicken recipe uses a light mayonnaise coating and a seasoned bran-flake crust to create juicy, flavorful drumsticks with a satisfying crunch.
Air Fryer Fried Chicken
I love classic fried chicken, but I avoid deep frying at home. Using an air fryer, I coat skinless drumsticks with a thin layer of light mayonnaise, press on finely crushed bran flakes seasoned with salt, paprika and garlic, and finish with a quick spray of olive oil. The result is a crunchy, golden crust and juicy meat inside. The air fryer also shortens cooking time compared with baking in a standard oven.
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Fried Chicken
Based on the same approach as an oven-fried chicken recipe, this air fryer version produces a reliably crisp coating and juicy interior. It’s a lighter, easier way to satisfy fried chicken cravings any night of the week.
- Comfort-food flavor with simple pantry ingredients and minimal mess.
- Crispy without deep frying: the air fryer creates the crunchy texture you expect.
- Much less oil: just a light spray is enough to crisp the coating.
- Protein-rich: two drumsticks provide a substantial amount of protein.
- Kid-friendly: a crowd-pleasing option for picky eaters.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses kosher salt—if you only have table salt, reduce the amount (start with 1 teaspoon) to avoid over-salting. Exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below.
- Drumsticks: dark meat yields extra flavor and stays juicy. Removing the skin before coating makes the dish lighter.
- Bran flakes: an unexpected but effective crust option that adds fiber and nutrients compared with plain flour. Gluten-free corn flakes or Rice Chex work as alternatives.
- Seasoning: kosher salt, garlic powder, paprika and optional dried parsley.
- Light mayonnaise: helps the crumbs adhere and gives a thicker, moister coating than using only egg or buttermilk.
- Olive oil spray: a light spray helps the coating brown and crisp in the air fryer.
How to Make Air Fryer Fried Chicken
Air frying is less messy than deep frying and faster than baking. For easier cleanup, line the air fryer basket with perforated parchment paper designed for air fryers. Arrange drumsticks in a single layer so hot air circulates freely. The steps below give a clear, printable method to follow.
- Prep: Pat drumsticks dry and season with 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or less if using table salt). Crush the bran flakes in a food processor until they form fine crumbs; finer crumbs adhere better.
- Make the coating: In a bowl combine the crushed cereal with remaining salt, paprika, garlic powder and dried parsley if using. Transfer to a shallow dish or a zip-top bag for easier coating.
- Coat the drumsticks: Brush or spread a thin layer of light mayonnaise over each drumstick, then press into the cereal crumbs until evenly coated. If using a bag, add a few pieces at a time and shake gently, then press crumbs onto spots that need more coverage.
- Air fry: Arrange drumsticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between pieces. Spray the tops lightly with olive oil. Air fry at 370°F (188°C) for 22–24 minutes, flipping halfway through and spraying the tops again for even browning. Cook until crust is golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Tips for Crispy Air Fryer Fried Chicken
- Spray with oil: A light coating of olive oil spray helps crumbs turn golden and crisp.
- Keep space between pieces: Don’t overcrowd the basket—air circulation is essential for crisping.
- Flip halfway: Turn drumsticks once so both sides brown evenly.
- Rest before serving: Let the drumsticks rest about 5 minutes after cooking to retain juices.
How Long to Cook
Cook drumsticks at 370°F for about 22 to 24 minutes. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) or cut into a piece to check that the juices run clear.
Variations
- Different cuts: Boneless thighs or breasts can be used—adjust cooking time accordingly.
- No food processor: Crush cereal in a sealed plastic bag with a rolling pin or heavy can.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free corn flakes or Rice Chex instead of bran flakes.
- Panko option: Panko breadcrumbs work well if you don’t have cereal.
- Mayo substitute: Use a beaten egg to help crumbs adhere.
- Flavor boosts: Mix a little Dijon into the mayo for tang, swap garlic powder for onion powder, or add ¼ teaspoon cayenne for heat.
- Oil swap: Use avocado oil spray if preferred.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Fried Chicken
This chicken pairs well with classic Southern sides and lighter vegetable dishes. Consider mashed potatoes, cheddar biscuits, baked macaroni and cheese, coleslaw or a simple cucumber salad for contrast and balance.
Recipe Card
Air Fryer Fried Chicken
Yield: 4 servings (about 2 drumsticks per serving)
Prep: 10 mins • Cook: 22 mins • Total: 32 mins
Ingredients
- 8 bone-in drumsticks, skin removed
- 2 1/2 cups bran flakes (about 4 1/2 ounces) or gluten-free crushed corn flakes
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt, divided (use less if using table salt)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
- 3 tablespoons light mayonnaise
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Season the drumsticks with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt.
- Pulse the cereal in a food processor until it becomes fine crumbs.
- In a bowl, combine the crushed cereal with the remaining salt, paprika, garlic powder and dried parsley if using.
- Brush mayonnaise onto each drumstick, then coat thoroughly with the crumb mixture, pressing the crumbs onto the meat.
- Place drumsticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Spray the tops with olive oil and air fry at 370°F for 22–24 minutes, turning and spraying once halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 386 kcal
- Protein: 55 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sodium: 1290 mg
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the air fryer at 370°F for about 5 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving, which will make the coating soggy.
FAQ
How long do you cook fried chicken in the air fryer?
Cook drumsticks at 370°F for 22 to 24 minutes, flipping halfway through. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Do you need to spray the chicken with oil?
Yes. A light spray of oil helps the crumb coating turn golden and crispy—spray before cooking and again after flipping for the best result.
Can I stack chicken in the air fryer?
No. Stacking causes steaming and a soggy crust. Arrange pieces in a single layer with space between them; cook in batches if necessary.
How do I make this without an air fryer?
Bake breaded chicken in a 400°F oven for about 40–45 minutes, flipping once, until golden and cooked through.
More Air Fryer Chicken Ideas
If you enjoyed this recipe, try other air fryer chicken variations like chicken nuggets, tenders, cutlets or a fried chicken sandwich—each adapts easily to the same crisping techniques used here.