Air Fryer Roast Chicken

Roasting a whole chicken in the air fryer is a revelation for juicy meat and irresistibly crispy skin with less mess and effort. This recipe delivers a beautifully golden chicken rubbed with mustard butter and brushed with honey. It is a reliable family favorite that is equally perfect for simple weeknights or special gatherings.

The first time I made this roast chicken in the air fryer I was shocked how evenly it cooked and how deeply flavorful it turned out With the golden crust it instantly became my go-to for Sunday dinners

Ingredients

• Whole chicken: about 1 kg ensures even cooking smaller birds fit best in the air fryer
• Sea salt and black pepper: classic seasoning to amplify all the other flavors choose freshly ground for best results
• Garlic cloves: both whole and chopped layering earthy aroma and bold taste select firm unblemished cloves
• Honey: brings a sweet shiny finish to the crispy skin use a thick honey for best caramelization
• Dijon mustard: delivers subtle heat and tang opt for quality brands for a smoother rub
• Butter unsalted: provides richness and helps the skin brown evenly choose a good butter for fuller flavor
• Fresh thyme chopped: bright herby notes check for vibrant green stems when buying
• Fresh parsley chopped: adds color and fresh taste flat-leaf parsley delivers the best punch
• Parchment paper: prevents sticking and helps cleanup look for unbleached options

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Air Fryer:

Set air fryer to 320 F or 160 C Line the bottom with parchment paper to catch drips and ease cleanup This prevents sticking and ensures even browning throughout

Prepare the Chicken:

Rinse the chicken thoroughly under cold water and pat completely dry inside and out with paper towels Place on a large plate Use your hands to season the entire bird and also under the skin with salt and black pepper Seasoning under the skin guarantees flavor in every bite

Make the Butter Mustard Rub:

In a small bowl combine Dijon mustard soft butter chopped thyme chopped parsley and two chopped garlic cloves Mix until creamy and uniform This aromatic rub infuses the chicken with deep flavor

Rub and Stuff:

Using your hands spread the mustard butter inside the chicken cavity and all over the outside including under the skin Rub under the skin gently by starting at the neck and loosening the skin with your fingers Stuff four whole garlic cloves into the cavity to perfume the meat as it roasts

Start Roasting:

Place the chicken breast-side down in the air fryer basket This position helps keep the breast juicy Roast for 30 minutes without opening the fryer for even cooking

Flip the Chicken:

Carefully turn the chicken over with tongs Roast breast-side up for another 20 minutes This rotation helps achieve golden crispy skin evenly on both sides

Glaze with Honey:

Remove the basket and pour honey directly over the chicken Use a brush to gently coat the whole bird Return it to the air fryer for a final 10 to 15 minutes Keep an eye out for deep golden coloration without burning

Rest Before Carving:

Once done open the fryer and let the chicken rest for 10 to 15 minutes before carving This makes slicing cleaner and ensures juices stay inside the meat

Serve Up:

Cut and serve the chicken with your favorite sides and all the flavorful pan juices collected below

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Storage Tips

Let the chicken cool before storing Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days If you want to freeze pull the meat off the bones and freeze in a sealed bag for up to two months Reheat slices in the air fryer for best texture

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of fresh thyme or parsley swap in dried herbs use about half the amount Lemon zest makes a nice bright addition Add a tablespoon to the rub for extra zing If you need to skip butter olive oil works but will give a lighter texture

Serving Suggestions

Serve this chicken alongside roasted vegetables creamy mashed potatoes or a simple green salad Save the pan juices for spooning over sides or as a dip for crusty bread The leftovers are excellent in wraps or tossed into salads for lunch

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Make It Your Own

This classic air fryer roast chicken leans on French bistro flavors thanks to the mustard and herbs Try different fresh herbs in the rub like tarragon or sage for a twist Brushing with maple syrup instead of honey gives an autumn touch

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?

Allow the chicken to rest after air frying before carving. Rubbing butter under the skin also helps retain moisture throughout cooking.

→ Can I use different herbs in the rub?

Yes, feel free to swap thyme and parsley for other fresh herbs like rosemary or sage to suit your taste preferences.

→ What temperature should the chicken reach internally?

For food safety, the thickest part of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) before serving.

→ How do I get extra crispy skin?

Pat the chicken dry before seasoning and make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow for better airflow and crisping.

→ Can I marinate the chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the mustard herb rub and coat the chicken in advance; refrigerate for a few hours or overnight for deeper flavor.

→ Are leftovers good the next day?

Yes, leftovers remain juicy and flavorful. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain crispiness on the skin.