Air Fryer Quail that Melts in Your Mouth

Fry Up Some Fun with Air Fryer Quail

There's a new way to cook your favorite game bird, and it involves a little hot air. That's right, we're talking about quail in an air fryer! If you're one of the countless home cooks who's been bitten by the air fryer bug, you know how versatile and delicious this gadget can be. But can it really handle a delicate bird like quail? We're here to tell you, yes it can! And we've got the recipe to prove it.

Can We Really Cook Quail in an Air Fryer?

The answer is a resounding yes! With its powerful heat and circulating air, an air fryer is an ideal way to cook a small bird like quail. You might be worried that the bird will dry out or get overcooked, but as long as you follow our recipe, you'll get perfectly crispy skin and juicy, flavorful meat every time.

Ingredients

4 quail, cleaned and patted dry
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Cooking spray

Steps to Cook Quail in an Air Fryer

In a small bowl, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
Rub the olive oil all over the quail, then dust them with the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
Spray the basket of your air fryer with cooking spray and arrange the quail in a single layer.
Cook at 375 degrees F for 18-20 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy and the internal temperature of the meat reaches 165 degrees F.
Let the quail rest for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips and Variations

For an extra-crispy crust, add a beaten egg to the flour mixture and dip the quail in the mixture before cooking.
Experiment with different seasonings, such as thyme, rosemary, or smoked paprika.
If you don't have an air fryer, you can oven-roast the quail at 400 degrees F for 15-20 minutes.

Air fryer quail may sound like a fancy restaurant dish, but it's actually a simple and delicious way to elevate your next game night or dinner party. With a little flour and some flavorful spices, you can take this humble bird to new heights of crispy, juicy goodness. Don't be afraid to experiment with different seasonings or cooking methods, and most of all, have fun in the kitchen!