air fryer masala chicken

Air Fryer Masala Chicken: Flavorful and Healthy Delight

Indulge in the rich and aromatic flavors of Air Fryer Masala Chicken, a delicious and healthy dish that’s perfect for anyone who loves Indian cuisine. In this article, we’ll guide you through the simple steps to create this mouthwatering and spice-infused chicken using your air fryer.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Air Fryer Masala Chicken, you’ll need:

For the Marinade:

• 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken pieces (thighs or breasts)
• 1/2 cup of yogurt (Greek yogurt or plain yogurt)
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon of garam masala
• 1 teaspoon of cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon of coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of paprika (for color and mild spice)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Juice from 1 lemon

For the Garnish:

• Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
• Lemon wedges

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade

1. In a bowl, combine yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, garam masala, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Mix well to create a smooth and fragrant marinade.
2. Add the boneless chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse into the chicken.

2. Preheat the Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and a crisp exterior.

3. Air Fry the Chicken

1. Once the air fryer is preheated, remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator.
2. Place the chicken pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook them in batches if necessary.
3. Air fry the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The chicken should be golden brown and cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

4. Garnish and Serve

1. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes.
2. Garnish your Air Fryer Masala Chicken with freshly chopped cilantro leaves and serve it hot with lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips for Perfect Masala Chicken

• Adjust the level of spice to your preference by adding more or less paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Feel free to use bone-in chicken pieces if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Serve your masala chicken with naan, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Air Fryer Masala Chicken is a delightful way to enjoy the bold flavors of Indian cuisine with a healthier twist. Whether you’re cooking it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish will impress your taste buds with its aromatic and spicy goodness. Enjoy!