Air Fryer Whole Chicken

Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 60-75 minutes Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes – 1 hour 30 minutes Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (approximately 4-5 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges and fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Air Fryer:
   • Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
2. Clean and Pat Dry:
   • Ensure the whole chicken is thoroughly cleaned and patted dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture will help achieve a crispy skin.
3. Season the Chicken:
   • In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried rosemary, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to create a seasoning blend.
   • Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the entire surface of the chicken, including inside the cavity.
4. Truss the Chicken (Optional):
   • Truss the chicken using kitchen twine to help it cook more evenly.
5. Place in Air Fryer:
   • Place the seasoned and trussed chicken in the air fryer basket, breast side up. Make sure there is space around the chicken for air circulation.
6. Air Fry:
   • Cook the chicken at 360°F (180°C) for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and continue cooking for an additional 30-45 minutes or until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Check for Doneness:
   • Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The juices should run clear, and the skin should be golden and crispy.
8. Rest:
   • Allow the air-fried whole chicken to rest for 10 minutes before carving.
9. Garnish and Serve:
   • Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh herbs if desired. Carve the chicken and serve.

Note: Cooking times may vary depending on the size and model of your air fryer. Adjust seasoning according to personal preference. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked and reaches a safe internal temperature before serving.