Air Fryer Chick Fil is a delightful way to recreate the iconic Chick-fil-A sandwich experience right at home. This air-fried version offers a healthier twist without sacrificing flavor or texture. Imagine biting into a crispy, juicy chicken breast marinated in pickle juice and buttermilk, perfectly seasoned, and served on a warm brioche bun. It’s comfort food at its finest, and the best part? You can make it in the air fryer, which means less oil and guilt. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Chick Fil
This Chick-fil-A air fryer recipe has so much to offer! First, it’s a healthier alternative to traditional frying, making it perfect for those who want to indulge without the extra calories. The air fryer ensures crispy air-fried Chick-fil-A chicken that rivals the original. Additionally, it takes only 40 minutes from start to finish, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. You can also customize your sandwich with various toppings, allowing everyone to create their perfect meal. Plus, the use of pickle juice in the marinade adds a unique flavor that can’t be beaten. Lastly, this Chick-fil-A-style air fryer recipe is gluten-free, accommodating dietary preferences without compromising taste.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Chick Fil
Gather these items:
- 2 chicken breasts (pounded to 1/4″ even thickness and halved)
- 1 cup pickle juice
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup milk
- 1 egg
- Peanut oil (enough for spritzing or light coating)
- 4 brioche hamburger buns
- 1/4 cup butter (for buttering buns)
- Toppings: dill pickle slices (optionally: green leaf lettuce, tomato, and cheese)
How to Make Air Fryer Chick Fil Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Begin by pounding the chicken breasts to an even 1/4-inch thickness and then halving each breast.
- Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together the pickle juice, buttermilk, salt, sugar, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. Submerge the chicken pieces in this marinade and let them soak for at least 30 minutes.
- Step 3: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, powdered sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Step 4: In another bowl, whisk together the milk and egg to form a batter for dipping the chicken.
- Step 5: Remove each piece of chicken from the marinade, dip it into the milk and egg mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture. Double-dip for maximum crispiness if desired.
- Step 6: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Step 7: Lightly spritz the coated chicken pieces with peanut oil or brush a thin layer. Arrange the chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Step 8: While the chicken cooks, toast the brioche buns in a skillet or toaster. Spread melted butter on the cut sides while warm.
- Step 9: Place the crispy chicken on the bottom bun, add dill pickle slices and any optional toppings. Top with the other bun half and serve immediately for the best experience.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Air Fryer Chick Fil
Keep these in mind:
- Serve immediately for the best experience.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- For extra crispiness, consider double-dipping your chicken in the batter.
- Use a high-quality air fryer to ensure even cooking.
Best Ways to Serve Air Fryer Chick Fil
Here are some serving suggestions:
- Pair it with Chick-fil-A air fryer nuggets for a complete meal.
- Serve with homemade Chick-fil-A air fryer dipping sauce for added flavor.
- Include a side of Chick-fil-A seasoned fries in air fryer for that authentic fast-food experience.
How to Store and Reheat Air Fryer Chick Fil
To store your air fryer Chick Fil, simply place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes, ensuring they remain crispy. This method is excellent for air fryer Chick-fil-A meal prep.
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Chick Fil
What’s the secret to perfect Air Fryer Chick Fil?
The secret lies in marinating the chicken in pickle juice and buttermilk, which tenderizes the meat and infuses it with flavor. Additionally, double-dipping in the batter creates an extra crispy coating typical of Chick-fil-A chicken.
Can I make Air Fryer Chick Fil ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and marinate it in advance. Just ensure you cook it right before serving for the best texture. This makes it easier for Chick-fil-A air fryer meal prep or gatherings.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Air Fryer Chick Fil?
Ensure your chicken is pounded evenly to promote uniform cooking. Also, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, as this can lead to uneven cooking and less crispiness.
Variations of Air Fryer Chick Fil You Can Try
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider these variations:
- Substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier option.
- Add different spices to the flour mixture for a unique flavor profile.
- Try using gluten-free flour for a gluten-free homemade Chick-fil-A air fryer option.
- Experiment with different toppings like spicy mayo or avocado for a twist.
For more delicious recipes, check out Air Fryer Alexia Sweet Potato Fries or Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta. If you’re looking for a great dessert to pair with your meal, try Irresistible Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake!
Print
Air Fryer Chick Fil: 7 Steps to Crispy Perfection
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Air Fryer Chick-fil-A Sandwich Copycat Recipe delivers the iconic juicy, crispy chicken sandwich experience at home with a healthier twist.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts (pounded to 1/4″ even thickness and halved)
- 1 cup pickle juice
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup milk
- 1 egg
- Peanut oil (enough for spritzing or light coating)
- 4 brioche hamburger buns
- 1/4 cup butter (for buttering buns)
- Toppings: dill pickle slices (optionally: green leaf lettuce, tomato, and cheese)
Instructions
- Begin by pounding the chicken breasts to an even 1/4-inch thickness and then halving each breast.
- In a bowl, whisk together the pickle juice, buttermilk, salt, sugar, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. Submerge the chicken pieces in this marinade and let them soak for at least 30 minutes.
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, powdered sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- In another bowl, whisk together the milk and egg to form a batter for dipping the chicken.
- Remove each piece of chicken from the marinade, dip it into the milk and egg mixture, then dredge in the flour mixture. Double-dip for maximum crispiness if desired.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Lightly spritz the coated chicken pieces with peanut oil or brush a thin layer. Arrange the chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- While the chicken cooks, toast the brioche buns in a skillet or toaster. Spread melted butter on the cut sides while warm.
- Place the crispy chicken on the bottom bun, add dill pickle slices and any optional toppings. Top with the other bun half and serve immediately.
Notes
- Serve immediately for the best experience.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 1200 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg