Air fryer ovens have gained immense popularity in recent years due to their ability to cook food quickly and with less oil. One of the dishes that can be perfectly cooked in an air fryer oven is rotisserie chicken. Rotisserie chicken is not only delicious but also a healthy alternative to fried chicken. In this article, we will discuss the steps to perfectly cook rotisserie chicken in an air fryer oven.
Gather the ingredients
Before we start cooking, it is essential to gather all the necessary ingredients. For making rotisserie chicken, we will need a whole chicken, olive oil, herbs and spices (such as salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and thyme), and any additional seasonings of your choice. It is also crucial to take the chicken out of the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
Prepare the chicken
The next step is to prepare the chicken before cooking. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, removing any excess moisture. This step is important as it helps to achieve a crispy skin. Once the chicken is dry, rub olive oil all over the skin. The olive oil not only adds flavor but also helps the seasonings to stick to the chicken.
Season the chicken
After applying olive oil, it’s time to season the chicken. In a small bowl, mix together salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and thyme. These herbs and spices add delicious flavor to the chicken. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the chicken, making sure to cover all sides evenly. You can also add other seasonings of your choice to enhance the flavor even more.
Preheat the air fryer oven
To ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly, it is important to preheat the air fryer oven. Set the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and let the oven preheat for about 5-10 minutes. Preheating helps to seal in the juices and ensures a succulent and tender chicken.
Cook the chicken
Once the air fryer oven is preheated, place the seasoned chicken on the rotisserie rod, making sure it is secure. Insert the rod into the oven and close the door. Set the cooking time to 30 minutes.
Monitor the cooking process
While the chicken is cooking, it is important to monitor the cooking process. Keep an eye on the chicken to ensure that it is cooking evenly and not becoming too brown. In case the chicken is browning too quickly, you can reduce the temperature slightly or cover it with foil to prevent excessive browning.
Check for doneness
After 30 minutes of cooking, check the chicken for doneness. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure that it is fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature by inserting it into the thickest part of the chicken, avoiding contact with bones. If the chicken has not reached the desired temperature, continue cooking for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Let the chicken rest
Once the chicken is fully cooked, it is important to let it rest for a few minutes before carving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender chicken. Cover the chicken loosely with foil and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes.
Carve and serve
After the resting period, it’s time to carve and serve the rotisserie chicken. Use a sharp knife to carve the chicken into desired pieces, such as drumsticks, thighs, breasts, and wings. Serve the chicken with your favorite sides and enjoy a delicious and perfectly cooked rotisserie chicken.
Tips for the perfect rotisserie chicken
Here are some additional tips to achieve the perfect rotisserie chicken in an air fryer oven:
– Experiment with different seasonings such as lemon pepper, Italian herbs, or barbecue rub to customize the flavor according to your preferences.
– Ensure that the chicken is properly dry before applying oil and seasonings for a crispy skin.
– If your air fryer oven has a rotating function, use it to ensure even cooking and browning of the chicken.
– Do not overcrowd the air fryer oven; leave enough space between the chicken and the heating element for proper circulation of hot air.
– If you want a darker and crispier skin, you can increase the temperature during the last few minutes of cooking. However, be careful not to burn the chicken.
– If you don’t have a rotisserie rod, you can still cook a delicious rotisserie-style chicken by placing it on the air fryer oven’s wire rack or in a roasting pan.
In conclusion, an air fryer oven is a versatile appliance that can be used to cook a wide range of dishes, including rotisserie chicken. By following the steps mentioned above, you can achieve a perfectly cooked rotisserie chicken with crispy skin and juicy meat. So, grab your air fryer oven and enjoy a delicious and healthy homemade rotisserie chicken today!