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Air Fryer Whole Chicken with Simple Herb Crust

A beautifully browned, herb-crusted air fryer whole chicken resting on a white serving platter.
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Cook a whole chicken in the air fryer for juicy meat and crispy skin. This recipe is fast, simple, and delivers rotisserie-style results perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 whole chicken (about 3–4 lbs)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 lemon, halved (optional, for cavity)

Instructions

  1. Remove the chicken from its packaging. Remove any giblets from the cavity. Pat the entire chicken dry, inside and out, using paper towels. Drying the skin helps achieve crispiness.
  2. In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, thyme, and rosemary.
  3. Rub the olive oil all over the exterior of the chicken.
  4. Sprinkle the herb mixture evenly over the chicken, rubbing it into the skin.
  5. If using, place the lemon halves inside the chicken cavity.
  6. Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C) for 5 minutes.
  7. Carefully place the whole chicken breast-side up in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd the basket.
  8. Air fry for 45 to 60 minutes. Cooking time depends on the size of the chicken.
  9. After 30 minutes, check the chicken. If the skin is browning too quickly, lightly tent the top with foil.
  10. Flip the chicken carefully halfway through cooking (around the 25-minute mark) for even cooking, if your air fryer requires it, or rotate the basket.
  11. The chicken is done when a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh registers 165°F (74°C).
  12. Remove the chicken from the air fryer. Let it rest on a cutting board for 10 minutes before carving.

Notes

  • For the crispiest skin, ensure the chicken is completely dry before seasoning.
  • If you are looking for alternatives to traditional cooking methods, this air fryer whole chicken recipe beats oven roasting for speed.
  • This recipe is a great alternative to using meal planning services for a quick main dish.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://delicerecipe.com/air-fryer-whole-chicken/