Air fried chicken is a delicious and healthy alternative to deep-fried chicken. It is made by cooking chicken in an air fryer, which uses hot air instead of oil to cook the food. Air fried chicken is lower in fat and calories than deep-fried chicken, making it a healthier option for those who want to enjoy the flavor of fried chicken without all the unhealthy ingredients. In this article, we will explore the calories in air fried chicken and how to make it for a healthier and tastier meal.
What Is an Air Fryer?
An air fryer is a kitchen appliance that uses convection technology to cook food. It works by circulating hot air around the food to cook it. This method of cooking is much healthier than deep-frying, as it uses little-to-no oil and is much faster than traditional ovens. As a result, air fryers are becoming increasingly popular among health-conscious cooks who want to enjoy fried foods without all the extra fat and calories.
Calories in Air Fried Chicken
Air fried chicken is a healthier version of fried chicken. It is typically lower in fat and calories, making it a better option for those who want to enjoy the flavor of fried chicken without all the unhealthy ingredients. A 3-ounce serving of air fried chicken contains about 160 calories and 5 grams of fat. This is significantly lower than the calories and fat found in a 3-ounce serving of deep-fried chicken, which contains about 270 calories and 14 grams of fat.
Nutritional Benefits of Air Fried Chicken
In addition to being lower in fat and calories than deep-fried chicken, air fried chicken also has several other nutritional benefits. It is a source of lean protein, which is important for building and maintaining muscle mass. It is also a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including iron, potassium, and vitamin B6. Additionally, air fried chicken is high in selenium, which is an important mineral for the immune system and for maintaining healthy skin and hair.
How to Make Air Fried Chicken
Making air fried chicken is easy and only requires a few simple ingredients. To make air fried chicken, start by seasoning the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices of your choice. Then, place the chicken in an air fryer basket and cook at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through. Once the chicken is cooked through, serve immediately and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories are in air fried chicken?
A 3-ounce serving of air fried chicken contains about 160 calories and 5 grams of fat.
What are the nutritional benefits of air fried chicken?
Air fried chicken is a source of lean protein and is also a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including iron, potassium, and vitamin B6. Additionally, air fried chicken is high in selenium, which is an important mineral for the immune system and for maintaining healthy skin and hair.
Is air fried chicken healthier than deep-fried chicken?
Yes, air fried chicken is typically lower in fat and calories than deep-fried chicken, making it a healthier option for those who want to enjoy the flavor of fried chicken without all the unhealthy ingredients.
What type of ingredients do I need to make air fried chicken?
To make air fried chicken, you will need chicken, salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices of your choice.
How do I cook air fried chicken?
To cook air fried chicken, place the chicken in an air fryer basket and cook at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through. Once the chicken is cooked through, serve immediately and enjoy!
What type of air fryer should I use to make air fried chicken?
Any type of air fryer will work for making air fried chicken. For best results, use an air fryer that has an adjustable temperature setting and timer.
Does air fried chicken taste the same as deep-fried chicken?
Yes, air fried chicken tastes very similar to deep-fried chicken. However, air fried chicken is typically crispier and has more crunch than deep-fried chicken.
How long does it take to make air fried chicken?
It takes approximately 15-20 minutes to cook air fried chicken in an air fryer.
Can I use frozen chicken for air frying?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken for air frying. However, it is best to thaw the chicken before air frying for best results.
Can I make air fried chicken without an air fryer?
Yes, you can make air fried chicken without an air fryer by baking the chicken in the oven. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through.
Can I add breading to my air fried chicken?
Yes, you can add breading to your air fried chicken. Simply coat the chicken in breading before placing it in the air fryer basket.
Can I make other foods in an air fryer besides chicken?
Yes, you can make a variety of foods in an air fryer, including french fries, vegetables, fish, and more.
What temperature should I set my air fryer to when making air fried chicken?
For best results, set your air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit when making air fried chicken.