Description
A delicious and healthier version of the classic Brazilian ‘Frango a Passarinho’, cooked in the air fryer for a crispy exterior and juicy interior, with minimal oil. This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for busy days, and a family favorite for its irresistible crunch and savory flavor.
Ingredients
1 kg Chicken drumettes or wingettes (passarinho style)
4 dentes minced Garlic
1 unit Lemon (juice)
A gosto Salt
A gosto Black pepper
1 colher de chá Smoked paprika
1 colher de sopa Rosemary (fresh or dried)
1 colher de sopa Olive oil
A gosto Chopped fresh herbs (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Wash the chicken pieces thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving crispy air fryer chicke
- Marinate the chicken: In a large bowl, place the chicken. Add the minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, rosemary, and olive oil. Mix everything very well, ensuring each piece of chicken is covered with the seasoning
- Let it marinate: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. The longer it marinates (up to 2 hours), the more flavorful your air fryer chicken will be
- Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for 5 minutes. This helps to sear the chicken and make it crispier
- Arrange the chicken in the basket: Distribute the chicken pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer, without overcrowding. If necessary, cook in batches to avoid overloading. Space is essential for air circulation and even cooking
- Cook: Air fry for 15 minutes at 200°C (400°F)
- Flip and continue cooking: After the first 15 minutes, open the air fryer and flip the chicken pieces. Continue cooking for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The exact time may vary depending on the size of the pieces and your air fryer model
- Finish and serve: Remove the air fryer chicken from the basket, transfer to a plate, and sprinkle chopped fresh herbs on top. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Always pat the chicken very dry with paper towels before seasoning; moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary to ensure proper air circulation and even crisping.
Shake the basket or flip the chicken pieces a few times during cooking to ensure all sides are uniformly golden and cooked.
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat the air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for 3 minutes. Place chicken in a single layer and heat for 5-8 minutes, flipping halfway, until warm and crispy again. Avoid using the microwave for reheating to prevent rubbery texture.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Brazilian