Can I use an air fryer to make the crispy chicken for your 'Chicken 65' recipe instead of deep frying? What adjustments would be needed?

Question

Can you use an air fryer to make the chicken for your 'Chicken 65'? Get the necessary adjustments for temperature and time to get a crispy result.

Answer 1

Yes, you can use an air fryer for Chicken 65. Reduce the oil slightly and ensure the chicken pieces are evenly spaced in the air fryer basket for optimal crispiness.

Detailed Explanation:

Air frying Chicken 65 is a healthier alternative to deep frying, as it significantly reduces the amount of oil used. Here's how to adapt the recipe:

1. Marinate the Chicken: Prepare the Chicken 65 marinade as per the original recipe. Ensure the chicken pieces are well-coated.
2. Reduce Oil: Since air frying requires less oil, reduce the amount of oil added to the marinade by about half. A light coating is sufficient.
3. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (392°F). This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and gets crispy.
4. Arrange Chicken: Place the marinated chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding, as this will steam the chicken instead of frying it. You may need to cook in batches.
5. Air Fry: Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 74°C (165°F).
6. Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model, so keep an eye on the chicken and adjust accordingly.
7. Final Touches: Once the chicken is cooked, proceed with the final tempering and sauce preparation as described in the original Chicken 65 recipe.

Pro Tip:

Lightly spray the chicken pieces with cooking oil before air frying to help them crisp up and achieve a more golden-brown color. This mimics the effect of deep frying without the excess oil.