Ingredients:
1 whole chicken (about 3.5–4 lbs)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
Juice of half a lemon (optional)
Instructions:Preheat Air Fryer to 360°F (182°C) for 5 minutes.
Prep the Chicken:
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
Mix all the seasonings in a small bowl with the olive oil and lemon juice.
Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin and inside the cavity.
Place in Air Fryer:
Set the chicken breast-side down in the air fryer basket.
Cook at 360°F (182°C) for 30 minutes.
Flip & Continue Cooking:
Flip the chicken breast-side up.
Cook for an additional 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast and juices run clear.
Rest & Serve:
Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
Tips:For extra crisp skin, spray with a bit of cooking oil in the last 5 minutes.
You can stuff the cavity with lemon slices, garlic cloves, or herbs for enhanced flavor.
