How to Cook Rotisserie Chicken in Air Fryer: The Ultimate Guide

By Avi Green July 17, 2024

For those who are passionate about 'barbecue' and crispy 'rotisserie chicken', this article will show you how to cook rotisserie chicken in an air fryer to perfection. The air fryer has revolutionized home cooking, bringing convenience and consistency to the dishes we love.

how to cook rotisserie chicken in air fryer

Introduction to Cooking Rotisserie Chicken in an Air Fryer

The art of cooking rotisserie chicken traditionally involves a spit-roast method where the chicken rotates slowly over indirect heat, delivering an even, golden-brown exterior and moist internal meat. Nowadays, with an air fryer, this delightful dish can be achieved with less hassle and in a fraction of the time. This guide will cover everything you need to know about making perfectly cooked rotisserie chicken using an air fryer.

Why Air Fryer is Ideal for Cooking Rotisserie Chicken

Air fryers have gained immense popularity for their ability to cook food quickly while retaining moisture and achieving crispy exteriors. The air fryer's rapid air technology ensures that heat is distributed evenly around the chicken, eliminating the need for oil while still achieving a crispy texture. Besides, air fryers are easy to clean and highly efficient, making them an ideal choice for rotisserie chicken.

Ingredients You Will Need

One whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)
Two tablespoons of olive oil
Two teaspoons of salt
One teaspoon of black pepper
One teaspoon of paprika
One teaspoon of garlic powder
One teaspoon of onion powder
One teaspoon of dried thyme
Fresh lemon slices
Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley)

Essential Tools for Cooking

To get started, you will need the following tools:

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Cook Rotisserie Chicken in Air Fryer

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

Start by thoroughly rinsing the chicken inside and out, and pat it dry with paper towels. This ensures that the skin will crisp up nicely during cooking. Remove any giblets from the chicken cavity. Once the chicken is dry, use the knives set to trim any excess fat around the neck and tail area.

Step 2: Seasoning the Chicken

In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. Mix well. Rub this seasoning mixture all over the chicken, ensuring that you cover every part. Place the lemon slices and fresh herbs inside the chicken's cavity to infuse it with additional flavors.

Step 3: Setting Up the Air Fryer

Place the seasoned chicken inside the air fryer basket with the breast side facing down. Most air fryers have a rotisserie setting, so make sure to select that option if available. Set the air fryer temperature to 360F (182C) and the timer for 30 minutes.

Step 4: Cooking the Chicken

After 30 minutes, carefully flip the chicken so that the breast side is facing up. Continue to cook for an additional 20-30 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach at least 165F (74C) in the thickest part of the thigh.

Step 5: Resting and Carving the Chicken

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it tender and flavorful. Carve the chicken using your knife set on the cutting board. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Rotisserie Chicken

Here are some additional tips to ensure your rotisserie chicken comes out perfect every time:

Use a meat thermometer: This ensures that you do not overcook or undercook the chicken.
Tie the chicken's legs: Tying the legs helps to ensure even cooking.
Baste occasionally: Basting the chicken with its own juices or a marinade can add extra flavor.
Let it rest: Allow the chicken to rest before carving to lock in the moisture.