Transform your family dinners with this easy air fryer whole roasted chicken recipe, combining tradition with modern convenience for a juicy, crispy meal.
A day before cooking, generously rub the chicken with 2 teaspoons of kosher salt, allowing it to rest for 30 minutes. Optionally, tie the chicken legs together using butcher’s twine.
Place the seasoned chicken in a large mixing bowl, ensuring it fits comfortably, then pour the buttermilk over the chicken. Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate overnight, flipping the chicken halfway through to ensure even marination.
Take the chicken out of the refrigerator an hour before cooking. Remove it from the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off, and discard the buttermilk.
When ready to cook, place the chicken in the air fryer basket (at least 6 quarts) breast side down. Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt on the top of the chicken.
Air fry at 350°F for approximately 25 minutes, until the top is browned. Flip the chicken over, season with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and continue cooking for another 25 minutes. The chicken should be golden, crispy, and the juices should run clear when a knife is inserted between the leg and thigh.
Once done, remove the chicken from the air fryer, place it on a serving platter, and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Oven Version:
For oven roasting, preheat the oven to 400°F. Roast the chicken until it is golden, crispy, and the juices run clear when a knife is inserted between the leg and thigh, approximately 1 hour, or until fully cooked.