Spatchcock chicken is a delicious and easy-to-cook dish that can be made even more convenient with the use of an air fryer. This method of cooking ensures that the chicken turns out perfectly cooked, with crispy skin and tender meat. In this article, we will take a closer look at how to cook spatchcock chicken in an air fryer, and the steps involved in making this mouthwatering dish a reality.
Preparing the Chicken
Gathering the Ingredients
Before we jump into the cooking process, it is important to gather all the necessary ingredients. For this recipe, you will need a whole chicken, some olive oil, salt, pepper, and any additional herbs or spices you prefer for seasoning.
Spatchcocking the Chicken
The first step in preparing spatchcock chicken is to spatchcock the chicken itself. Spatchcocking involves removing the backbone of the chicken and flattening it out, which will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and more quickly.
To spatchcock the chicken, place it breast-side down on a cutting board. Use a pair of kitchen shears to carefully cut along each side of the backbone, starting from the tail end up to the neck. Once the backbone is removed, flip the chicken over and press it down firmly to flatten it out.
Seasoning the Chicken
Now that the chicken is spatchcocked, it’s time to season it. Drizzle some olive oil over the chicken, making sure to coat it evenly. Next, generously season the chicken with salt and pepper, or any other herbs and spices you prefer. You can get creative here and add some garlic powder, paprika, or rosemary for added flavor.
Cooking in the Air Fryer
Preheating the Air Fryer
Before you start cooking the chicken in the air fryer, it’s essential to preheat it. Set the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and allow the air fryer to preheat for around 5 minutes. This will ensure that the chicken cooks quickly and evenly.
Placing the Chicken in the Air Fryer
Once the air fryer is preheated, it’s time to place the spatchcocked chicken inside. Carefully lay the chicken, skin-side up, in the air fryer basket. Make sure the chicken is not overcrowded and has enough space for the air to circulate around it. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
Cooking Time and Temperature
The cooking time and temperature for spatchcock chicken in an air fryer may vary slightly depending on the size and thickness of the chicken. In general, cook the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes. However, it’s essential to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it is cooked through. The thickest part of the chicken should register at least 165°F (74°C).
Flipping the Chicken
About halfway through the cooking process, it’s a good idea to flip the chicken to ensure even browning and crispness. Using tongs, carefully flip the chicken and cook for the remaining time. This step will help to achieve that beautiful golden color on both sides.
Resting and Serving
Once the chicken is cooked through and has a crispy exterior, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest on a cutting board for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicy and tender meat.
After the resting period, it’s time to slice and serve the spatchcock chicken. Use a sharp knife to cut the chicken into desired pieces, such as quarters or individual servings. Serve it alongside your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, for a complete and satisfying meal.
Conclusion
Cooking spatchcock chicken in an air fryer is a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful and juicy chicken dish with minimal effort. By following these simple steps of spatchcocking, seasoning, and cooking, you can create a dish that will impress both yourself and your guests. The air fryer ensures that the chicken has a crispy skin while keeping the meat tender and succulent. So why wait? Grab your air fryer and treat yourself to a delicious spatchcock chicken dinner tonight!