🍗 Whole Chicken in the Air Fryer (45 min): Golden & Juicy – Neary

Q: Combien de temps et à quelle température cuire un poulet entier au air fryer ?

Pour un poulet entier de 1,2 à 1,5 kg, compte 45 minutes à 180 °C. Retourne à mi-cuisson et vérifie que la température à cœur atteint 75 °C minimum.

Q: Comment obtenir une peau bien dorée et croustillante au air fryer ?

Sèche bien le poulet, huile et sale généreusement. Pour dorer encore plus, termine 5 min à 200 °C en surveillant la couleur.

Q: Faut-il farcir le poulet avant cuisson ?

Ce n’est pas obligatoire, mais un demi-citron ou de l’ail à l’intérieur parfume la chair et la rend plus moelleuse.

Q: Dois-je retourner le poulet pendant la cuisson au air fryer ?

Oui, retourne-le à mi-cuisson pour une dorure homogène sur toutes les faces.

Q: Quels modèles de air fryer pour cuire un poulet entier ?

Choisis un air fryer de 5 litres ou plus pour loger un poulet entier. Découvre notre sélection sur Neary.

Oct 29, 20250 comments

Whole chicken golden brown in the air fryer – Neary recipe and tips

🍗 Whole Chicken in the Air Fryer (45 min): Golden & Juicy – Neary

By Lou • Recipe & tips 🥗

Quick answer: To cook a whole chicken in an air fryer, choose a suitable size (approx. 1.2 to 1.5 kg), lightly oil it, season it generously, and cook it at 180°C for about 45 minutes . Turn it halfway through cooking for crispy skin, check the internal temperature (at least 75°C), and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving. The result: juicy meat, golden skin, and zero splatter!

Do you dream of a whole chicken, golden and tender , without turning on the oven? The air fryer transforms this classic into a quick, healthy, and crispy dish! No more monitoring the cooking or battling grease: in just a few simple steps, your chicken will come out perfectly juicy, with golden skin, and no lingering odor 😋. Here's how to easily cook a whole chicken in the air fryer , with all my tips, ideal times, temperatures, and tricks to enjoy a delicious meal without any fuss!

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What ingredients are needed for a whole chicken cooked in an air fryer?

A whole chicken (1.2 to 1.5 kg max for most baskets)
1 to 2 tablespoons of olive or sunflower oil
Salt, pepper, herbs (thyme, rosemary, oregano, paprika…)
Spices of your choice (garlic, curry, smoked paprika, lemon…)
Optional: 1 sliced lemon, 2 cloves of garlic for stuffing

Steps to cook a whole chicken in an air fryer

Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (Rotisserie mode if available).
Dry the chicken with absorbent paper for a crispy skin.
Coat the chicken with oil all over, salt generously, add your favorite herbs/spices 🧄🌿.
Place the chicken breast-side down in the pot. (If possible, slip half a lemon inside for tenderness.)
Start cooking: 180°C for 25 minutes .
Carefully turn the chicken over (breast up) with tongs or spatulas 🔄.
Continue for an additional 20 minutes at 180°C .
Check the doneness : the internal temperature (thigh) must reach at least 75°C . If not, add 5 minutes per slice until the juices run clear.
Let it rest for 10 minutes under a sheet of aluminum foil for perfect softness.

How long and at what temperature should I cook a whole chicken in an air fryer?

For a whole chicken weighing 1.2 to 1.5 kg : 45 minutes at 180°C is usually sufficient.
🌡️ Important: adjust the time if your chicken is bigger or smaller – add or subtract 5 minutes per 200g increment.

Even cooking: turn the chicken over halfway through cooking.
Core temperature (thigh): 75°C minimum
Tip: If the skin isn't golden enough, finish baking for 5 minutes at 200°C, but watch carefully to avoid burning 🔥

My tips for a perfect air fryer chicken 🥳

Do not overload the basket: the chicken must move freely for even cooking.
Avoid adding too much oil: the skin will tan naturally and remain less oily.
Add fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary) at the end of cooking for flavor.
For ultra-tender meat: brush the chicken with marinade the day before and store in the fridge (bonus option: let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking).
Remember to turn it over for crispy skin on all sides!

Mistakes to avoid 😅

Chicken too big : it must be able to turn or be turned over easily in the vat.
Do not turn over : the skin will be soft on one side.
Don't take the chicken out too early: check that the juices run clear near the bone.
Don't pierce the skin before cooking, you'll lose juice!

FAQ: All about whole air-fryer chicken 🐔

Should I oil the chicken before cooking?

Yes, a thin layer of oil (olive or sunflower) helps to get a golden skin and prevents the chicken from drying out. You can also add spices, paprika, or herbs for extra flavor!

Should the chicken be stuffed?

It's not mandatory, but adding half a lemon or a few cloves of garlic adds flavor and prevents the meat from drying out. Avoid large stuffings that slow down cooking.

How can I be sure the chicken is cooked thoroughly?

Prick the thigh: the juices should be clear (not pink). Ideally, use a thermometer: the internal temperature should be at least 75°C. Don't hesitate to add a few more minutes if needed 🔍.

Can you cook potatoes or vegetables at the same time?

Yes, if you have the space! Chop the vegetables and arrange them around the chicken. Drizzle with a little of the cooking juices halfway through to flavor them. The result is incredibly delicious 🥔🥕.

Is air-fryer chicken really healthier?

Yes, because it requires less fat to cook, and the fat drains to the bottom of the basket (instead of remaining on the meat). It's also faster and splatter-free!

Which air fryer should I choose to cook a whole chicken?

Choose a model with a 5L or larger capacity, deep enough to hold a whole chicken. Check out our comparison of the best air fryers to help you make your choice.

See the best Air Fryers on sale 🔥