For optimal results and to ensure it fits comfortably within most standard air fryer baskets, we recommend using a whole chicken weighing between 3 to 4 pounds. This size allows for proper air circulation, which is crucial for even cooking and achieving that coveted crispy skin. Attempting to use a larger chicken might result in it not fitting or cooking unevenly due to restricted airflow. If you only have a larger chicken, consider spatchcocking it (butterflying it) to flatten it out, or even cutting it into pieces for more manageable cooking.

This versatile Air Fryer Whole Roasted Chicken pairs wonderfully with a wide array of side dishes. For a classic pairing, consider roasted vegetables like carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts. A fresh, crisp side salad provides a light and refreshing contrast. In the photos, we feature simple yet satisfying microwaved potatoes. To prepare these, simply pierce baby gold potatoes with a fork, place them in a microwave-safe dish, and cover with plastic wrap. Microwave for about 6 minutes (checking at the 4-minute mark for tenderness). Once cooked, toss them with ½ stick (¼ cup) of melted salted butter and ¼ teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning for an explosion of flavor.

Yes, for this specific recipe, preheating is highly recommended and crucial for success. You’ll want to preheat your air fryer to 390°F (199°C) for 5 minutes before carefully placing your seasoned chicken inside. Preheating ensures that the chicken starts cooking immediately at the correct temperature, leading to a faster and more even cook, and contributing significantly to the desired crispy skin. While not all air fryer recipes require preheating, it makes a substantial difference for a whole roasted chicken.

The most reliable way to determine if your chicken is done is by using an internal meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken thigh, avoiding the bone. The chicken is safe to consume when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures that the chicken is cooked through, juicy, and safe for consumption. Always trust your thermometer over estimated cooking times, as appliance models and chicken sizes can vary.

Absolutely! The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. While our chosen blend offers a fantastic flavor profile, feel free to customize it to your personal preferences. Experiment with your favorite store-bought poultry rubs or create your own unique blend. Cajun seasoning, lemon pepper seasoning, smoky barbecue rub, or a classic herbes de Provence blend are all excellent choices that can add a wonderful twist to your roasted chicken. Don’t be afraid to get creative with spices like cumin, coriander, or even a touch of chili powder for an extra kick.

Flipping the chicken halfway through the cooking process is essential for achieving an evenly cooked bird with beautifully golden, crispy skin all the way around. The air fryer works by circulating hot air, but directly exposing all sides to this intense heat ensures uniform browning and texture. Without flipping, one side might become overly crispy or even burn, while the other remains less browned. This simple step guarantees a perfectly roasted chicken from top to bottom.

Leftover Air Fryer Whole Roasted Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. For longer storage, cooked chicken freezes exceptionally well. Allow the chicken to cool completely, then carve it into pieces or store it whole (if space allows) in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep frozen for up to 3 months. To defrost, simply transfer the frozen chicken to the refrigerator overnight until fully thawed. Reheat gently in the air fryer, oven, or microwave until warmed through.

Step 1: Prepare Your Seasoning Blend. In a small bowl, combine the sea salt, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, onion powder, and marjoram. Mix these spices thoroughly until well combined. This blend forms the flavorful crust of your chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken. Carefully remove the giblets and any other innards from the chicken cavity and discard them. Using paper towels, thoroughly pat the entire chicken dry, inside and out. A dry surface is key to achieving crispy skin. Once dry, generously rub your prepared seasoning blend all over the chicken, ensuring an even coating on every surface, including under the wings and legs.

Step 3: Stuff with Aromatics. Carefully stuff the chicken cavity with the peeled garlic cloves, fresh thyme sprigs, lemon wedges, and yellow onion quarters. These aromatics will infuse the chicken meat with incredible flavor and moisture as it cooks from the inside out, creating a truly rich and aromatic roast.

Step 4: Truss the Chicken. For more even cooking and a compact shape that fits better in the air fryer, use butcher’s twine to tie the drumsticks together. This simple trussing technique helps the chicken cook uniformly and prevents the legs from drying out prematurely.

Step 5: Air Fry the Chicken. Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (199°C) for 5 minutes. Once preheated, lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Carefully place the seasoned and trussed chicken into the air fryer basket, breast-side up. Cook for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, carefully flip the chicken over (breast-side down) and continue to cook for an additional 25 minutes. This two-stage cooking ensures even crisping and thorough cooking.

Step 6: Rest and Serve. Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the chicken from the air fryer. Transfer it to a cutting board and let it rest for 10 minutes. Resting is a critical step that allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a tender and moist chicken. Before carving, use a meat thermometer to verify that the internal temperature in the thickest part of the thigh (without touching the bone) has reached 165°F (74°C). Carve and serve immediately, enjoying the fruits of your air fryer labor!

Air Fryer Whole Roasted Chicken

This Air Fryer Whole Roasted Chicken is the perfect family dinner for any night of the week! No need to turn on the oven for a perfect roasted chicken!

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (based on 1 review)

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Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 55 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Servings: 4

Author: Brandie Skibinski

Ingredients

• 3-4 pounds whole roaster chicken
• 2 teaspoons sea salt
• ½ Tablespoon garlic powder
• ½ Tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon marjoram (can substitute with oregano)
• 6 cloves garlic
• 6 sprigs thyme
• 1 lemon, cut in fourths
• 1 yellow onion, cut in fourths

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, mix sea salt, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, onion powder, and marjoram.
2. Remove the innards from the cavity of the chicken and discard.
3. Pat chicken dry and rub the seasonings thoroughly onto the chicken, ensuring a full and even coating.
4. Stuff the chicken cavity with garlic cloves, thyme, lemon, and yellow onion to infuse deep flavor.
5. Use butcher’s twine to tie the drumsticks together, promoting even cooking.
6. Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (199°C) for 5 minutes. Spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray and place the chicken inside, breast-side up. Cook for 30 minutes. Then, carefully flip the chicken over (breast-side down) and cook for an additional 25 minutes.
7. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes on a cutting board to allow juices to redistribute. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature in the thickest part of the thigh has reached 165°F (74°C).
8. Carve and serve immediately. Enjoy your perfectly roasted air fryer chicken!

Notes

• Feel free to use your favorite seasoning blend if the one provided isn’t to your taste.
• The delicious microwaved baby gold potatoes shown as a side can be prepared by piercing them with a fork, placing them in a microwave-safe dish, covering with saran wrap, and cooking for about 6 minutes (check at 4 mins). Toss with ½ stick (¼ cup) melted salted butter and ¼ teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
• Cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Remember to flip your chicken halfway through cooking for optimal browning and evenness.
• Always confirm doneness with a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should be 165°F (74°C).

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Nutrition Information (Estimated Per Serving)

• Calories: 387 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 25g
• Sodium: 1281mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g

Nutritional Disclaimer

“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used and exact preparation methods.

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