Fried chicken is a beloved classic, but traditional recipes can be high in carbs due to breading and frying methods. Enter Crispy Keto Fried Chicken in the Air Fryer—a game-changer for those following a low-carb or keto lifestyle. This recipe offers all the crunch and flavor of traditional fried chicken without the carbs. Perfect for anyone on a keto diet, this air-fried chicken uses almond flour and pork rinds to create a satisfyingly crispy coating. Let’s dive into the origins of this dish and why it has become a favorite among keto enthusiasts.
Ingredients
To make the Crispy Keto Fried Chicken in the Air Fryer, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Chicken:
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- Breading:
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1 cup crushed pork rinds
- 2 tablespoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a spicy kick)
- Egg Wash:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream
Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and crispiness.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy skin, as excess moisture can prevent the breading from adhering properly.
Making the Breading
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine almond flour, crushed pork rinds, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to ensure even distribution of spices.
- Prepare the Egg Wash:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream. This mixture will help the breading stick to the chicken.
Coating and Cooking
- Coat the Chicken:
- Dip each piece of chicken into the egg wash, ensuring it’s fully coated. Allow any excess to drip off, then roll the chicken in the breading mixture, pressing firmly to adhere. Place the coated chicken on a plate and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the breading to set.
- Air Fry the Chicken:
- Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Be careful not to overcrowd; cook in batches if necessary. Cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
Tips and Variations
Achieving Maximum Crispiness
- Preheating: Always preheat your air fryer for the best results. This ensures that the chicken starts cooking immediately, leading to a crispier texture.
- Dry the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces thoroughly with paper towels before coating them. This helps the breading stick better and results in crispier skin.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the chicken in batches if needed. Crowding the air fryer basket can lead to uneven cooking and soggy breading.
Variations
- No Pork Rinds? No problem! Substitute crushed pork rinds with grated Parmesan cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Option: Add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of chili powder for extra heat.
- Herbed Variation: Mix dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano into the breading for an aromatic twist.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on one chicken thigh or breast):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Net Carbs: 2g
This nutritional information makes this dish a great choice for those following a low-carb or keto diet, providing essential protein and fats with minimal carbohydrates.
Crispy Keto Fried Chicken in the Air Fryer is a delightful dish that brings all the satisfaction of traditional fried chicken without the guilt. Perfect for family dinners or a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your keto meal rotation. Give it a try, and let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
Don’t forget to check out other delicious recipes on Easy Crispy Recipes, like our Crispy Breaded Tilapia or Crispy Fried Boiled Eggs. Share your culinary creations on social media and subscribe to our newsletter for more mouth-watering recipes delivered straight to your inbox.