Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Chicken is a delicious, quick and healthier way to cook crispy chicken with minimal oil. It’s a perfect blend of his signature style-simple, flavorful and easy to follow. The air fryer makes the chicken tender on the inside while giving it a crispy, golden skin on the outside, much like deep-frying but without the excess fat. The recipe is a great option for anyone who loves a good, crispy chicken but wants to cut down on the oil and calories.
Instead of deep-frying, Jamie uses the air fryer which circulates hot air to cook the food quickly and evenly, giving that satisfying crunch. The chicken is seasoned with a mix of fresh herbs, spices and a bit of oil for flavor, making it an irresistible meal.
Jamie Oliver Air Fryer Chicken Recipe
Ingredients Needed
Here’s the thing about Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Chicken: it doesn’t require a ton of exotic ingredients. You probably already have most of them in your kitchen. Here’s the basic list:
- Chicken pieces – You can use drumsticks, thighs or chicken breasts. Drumsticks and thighs work best for this recipe as they’re juicy and hold up well in the air fryer.
- Olive oil – Just a small amount helps the skin get that perfect crisp without being greasy.
- Garlic – Either minced fresh garlic or garlic powder will work. It adds that savory flavor that pairs so well with chicken.
- Paprika – This gives the chicken a little smokiness and color. You can use sweet or smoked paprika, depending on your preference.
- Dried herbs – A mix of thyme, rosemary or oregano adds earthy notes. Fresh herbs also work well if you have them.
- Salt and pepper – Basic seasonings but they make all the difference in bringing out the chicken’s flavor.
- Lemon zest (optional) – For a refreshing, zesty kick. It adds brightness to the whole dish.
That’s pretty much it! Simple ingredients that, when combined, deliver a dish that’s bursting with flavor.
Equipment Needed
For this recipe, the equipment is minimal and straightforward:
- Air fryer – The star of the show! This is where all the magic happens. You don’t need a fancy model, just something that gets hot enough to crisp up the chicken. Make sure it has enough space for your chicken pieces to cook evenly.
- Mixing bowl – For tossing your chicken in the seasoning mix. You could also use a Ziploc bag if you prefer an even coating without getting your hands dirty.
- Tongs or spatula – Handy for flipping the chicken halfway through cooking, ensuring an even golden finish on all sides.
- Measuring spoons – For precise amounts of seasoning, especially if you’re new to the recipe.
- Thermometer (optional) – If you want to be sure the chicken is cooked through without cutting into it, a food thermometer can come in handy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Chicken
Now, let’s get into the process:
- Prepare the chicken – Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps it crisp up better in the air fryer.
- Season it up – In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, paprika, salt, pepper and any herbs or lemon zest you’re using. Toss your chicken pieces in the seasoning until they’re well-coated.
- Preheat the air fryer. Some air fryers require preheating; others don’t, so check your model. Preheating ensures the chicken starts cooking immediately once placed inside, making it crispy from the get-go.
- Air fry the chicken. Arrange the chicken in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not overcrowded. Cook at 180°C (350°F) for about 25-30 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken. Flip them halfway through to ensure even cooking. If you’re using a thermometer, check the internal temperature to confirm it’s cooked through.
- Serve and enjoy – Once the chicken is golden and crispy, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute so the meat stays moist.
What I Learnt
Making Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Chicken taught me a few valuable lessons:
- Simplicity is key: It doesn’t take much to make an amazing dish. Just a few well-chosen ingredients and a solid technique (like using an air fryer) can transform something as simple as chicken into something extraordinary.
- The air fryer is a game-changer: It’s so convenient! No more worrying about hot oil splattering or waiting forever for the oven to preheat. The air fryer cooked the chicken faster than I expected and with far less mess.
- Crispiness is achievable without deep frying: The air fryer made the chicken skin just as crispy as deep-frying but without the heavy oil, making it a healthier option. It was a total win.
- Flavor layering: The combination of garlic, paprika and lemon zest was a beautiful balance of savory, smoky and fresh. It made the chicken taste complex, despite the simple ingredients.
Recipe Tweaks For Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Chicken
Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Chicken is already pretty amazing but tweaking it can make it even better, depending on your preferences. Here are some ways you can play around with the recipe:
1. Spice It Up With A Rub Or Marinade
If you love bold flavors, add a spice rub or marinade. You can mix paprika, garlic powder, cumin and chili flakes for a smoky kick. Alternatively, marinate the chicken overnight in lemon, olive oil, garlic and herbs for extra tenderness and flavor.
2. Experiment With Coatings
Try a crunchy crust by mixing breadcrumbs, panko or even crushed cornflakes with parmesan. You could also add herbs like rosemary or thyme for more depth. If you want a lighter version, skip the coating and go for a simple olive oil drizzle with your seasoning.
3. Add A Flavor Twist
Change up the seasonings. Swap out thyme for tarragon or use lemon zest instead of lime for a different citrusy zing. You could also try a BBQ seasoning mix if you’re in the mood for something sweet and smoky.
4. Play With Marinades
Try adding different acids (like balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar) to your marinade. The acidity will break down the chicken, making it tender and juicy. Adding a bit of honey or maple syrup balances the acid and gives a nice glaze.
5. Sweet And Savory Combinations
For a more adventurous spin, go for a sweet and savory mix. add a little bit of brown sugar or honey to the chicken. The caramelization in the air fryer gives it a nice crispiness and adds depth to the flavor.
Storage Tips For Leftovers
Don’t throw away your leftover chicken! Properly storing it can help you enjoy it again without losing that crispy texture and juiciness.
1. Cool Before Storing
Before putting it in the fridge, let the chicken cool down to room temperature. This prevents condensation and keeps the chicken from becoming soggy. Ideally, within two hours of cooking, store it.
2. Use Airtight Containers
The best way to keep your chicken fresh is by using airtight containers. It helps lock in the flavor and moisture, preventing it from drying out. Make sure to separate pieces with parchment paper or foil to keep them from sticking together.
3. Reheat In The Air Fryer
Reheating leftovers? Don’t use a microwave if you want to keep that crispy skin. Instead, pop it back in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes. This will bring back the crunchiness without drying it out.
4. Freezing For Later
If you have a lot of leftover chicken, freezing is a great option. Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer bag. You can store it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, just reheat in the air fryer straight from the freezer.
What To Eat With Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Chicken?
The beauty of Jamie Oliver’s air fryer chicken is its versatility. It pairs with so many sides and accompaniments. Here are a few options:
1. Fresh, Crunchy Salad
A fresh side salad with greens like spinach, arugula or mixed greens works beautifully. Add in cherry tomatoes, cucumber and a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the chicken. If you want something heartier, you could add some quinoa or couscous.
2. Roasted Veggies
Roast up some veggies-carrots, zucchini, bell peppers and sweet potatoes all work well. Roasting them in the oven or in the air fryer alongside the chicken brings out their natural sweetness, creating a delicious contrast with the savory chicken.
3. Mashed Potatoes
The creamy richness of mashed potatoes makes a perfect complement to the crispy chicken. Try adding a little roasted garlic or chives to your mash for extra flavor.
4. Rice Or Couscous
A fluffy rice or couscous dish works great, especially if you add some lemon zest or fresh herbs to keep it light and zesty. The grain will absorb the juices from the chicken and become a perfect sidekick.
5. Garlic Bread
If you’re craving something extra indulgent, garlic bread is a great addition. The crunchy, buttery bread pairs well with the juicy chicken and who can say no to that combo?
FAQs
How Long Do You Cook Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Chicken?
Cook the chicken at 180°C for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for crispy results.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken For Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just increase the cooking time by about 5-10 minutes depending on the size of the chicken.
What Seasonings Work Best With Jamie Oliver’s Air Fryer Chicken?
Jamie suggests a mix of garlic, paprika, thyme, and a pinch of sea salt, but feel free to adjust to your taste!
