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Ultimate Crispy & Juicy Air Fryer Whole Chicken (Rotisserie Style)

A perfectly cooked, crispy-skinned air fryer whole chicken resting on a white plate, ready to serve.

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Learn how to cook a whole chicken in your air fryer for a weeknight dinner that delivers crispy, golden skin and incredibly moist meat, just like rotisserie style.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Remove the chicken from its packaging. Take out any giblets from the cavity. Pat the entire chicken, inside and out, completely dry using paper towels. This step is key for crispy skin.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, rosemary, and cayenne pepper to create your best air fryer chicken seasoning rub.
  3. Rub the olive oil all over the exterior of the chicken.
  4. Generously sprinkle the seasoning mix over the entire surface of the chicken, rubbing it in gently. Make sure to coat the back and legs well.
  5. Place the seasoned whole chicken breast-side up into your air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd the basket; the air needs to circulate.
  6. Cook the chicken at 360°F (180°C) for 40 minutes.
  7. After 40 minutes, carefully flip the chicken over using tongs.
  8. Increase the temperature to 380°F (195°C) and cook for another 10 to 20 minutes, or until the skin is deep golden brown and crispy.
  9. Check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone. The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (74°C).
  10. Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the air fryer. Let it rest on a cutting board for 10 minutes before carving. This resting time keeps the meat juicy.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, you can stuff the cavity with half a lemon and a few sprigs of fresh herbs before seasoning the outside.
  • If your air fryer is small, you may need to cook the chicken in two stages or use a smaller bird to ensure proper air circulation for the best crispy skin.
  • If the skin browns too quickly before the internal temperature is reached, loosely tent the chicken with foil for the remainder of the cook time.

Nutrition