Spicy Cajun-Style Air Fryer Roast Chicken

Spicy Cajun-Style Air Fryer Roast Chicken

Add a kick of bold, zesty flavors to your dinner table with this Spicy Cajun-Style Air Fryer Roast Chicken. Juicy, tender, and packed with heat, it’s a flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for spice lovers.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (3–4 lbs)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 lemon, halved

• 3 cloves garlic, smashed

Kitchen Tools Needed:

• Air fryer

• Chef’s knife

• Cutting board

• Small mixing bowl

• Basting brush

• Meat thermometer

Preparation Steps:

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove any moisture, ensuring crisp skin.

2. Rub olive oil all over the chicken to help the spices adhere.

Make the Cajun Spice Mix:

1. In a small bowl, combine Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.

2. Rub the spice mix generously over the chicken, including under the skin and inside the cavity.

3. Stuff the cavity with lemon halves and smashed garlic cloves for added aroma and moisture.

Air Frying Steps:

1. Preheat: Preheat your air fryer to 360°F for 5 minutes.

2. Load the Chicken: Place the chicken breast-side down in the air fryer basket.

3. First Cook Cycle: Air fry at 360°F for 30 minutes.

4. Flip and Finish: Flip the chicken breast-side up and continue cooking for another 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature at the thickest part of the breast reaches 165°F.

5. Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving to lock in the juices.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with Cajun-style dirty rice, cornbread, or roasted sweet potatoes.

• Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a vibrant touch.

• Pair with dipping sauces like spicy ranch or chipotle aioli for an extra kick.

Tips for Success:

• Adjust Heat: Control the spice level by reducing or omitting the cayenne pepper.

• Even Coating: Make sure the Cajun spice mix covers all parts of the chicken for consistent flavor.

• Use Fresh Lemon: Squeezing fresh lemon juice over the chicken before serving enhances the flavors.

Nutrition Estimate (Per Serving):

• Calories: ~290

• Protein: ~25g

• Carbohydrates: ~2g

• Fat: ~21g

This Spicy Cajun-Style Air Fryer Roast Chicken delivers the perfect balance of heat and flavor, making it a standout choice for any occasion.