Healthy Copycat KFC Southern Fried Chicken
A healthier version of the beloved KFC fried chicken, this recipe features juicy drumsticks marinated in a seasoned buttermilk bath and air-fried for crispy perfection.
- Prep Time: 60 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 90 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free option available
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or oil for air frying
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until blended.
- Add the chicken drumsticks to the mixture, ensuring they’re fully submerged. Marinate for at least one hour; overnight is ideal.
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
- In a separate bowl, pour in the flour. Coat each marinated drumstick in flour.
- Place the flour-coated chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Lightly spray with cooking spray or drizzle oil.
- Air fry for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
For a dairy-free option, substitute buttermilk with plant-based milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar. Consider whole wheat flour for an even healthier twist.