Frozen Whole Chicken in Air Fryer

We’re here to show you how to cook frozen whole chicken in air fryer! I have shared how to cook frozen chicken of all kinds lately and this is yet another game changer. Use your Cosori or Ninja Foodi to air fry frozen meat right out of the freezer to tender.

Have you cooked a frozen whole chicken before? We have now done it a number of different ways. Slow cooked, in the oven, and now air fried. I know, it is hard to believe that this would even work but we figured it out and here to share this recipe. (affiliate links present)

Air Fryer Frozen Whole Chicken

The air fryer has revolutionized home cooking, offering a healthier and more convenient way to prepare a wide range of dishes. While it’s often associated with crispy fries and snacks, the air fryer can also be a game-changer when it comes to cooking proteins like chicken. If you have only made an air fryer whole chicken thawed, get ready to be wowed.

We will explore the wonders of cooking a frozen whole chicken in the air fryer, providing you with a simple and delicious way to enjoy tender and flavorful poultry straight from the freezer. You don’t have to have it cut up into pieces though. Yes you can in fact do it with breasts like frozen chicken air fryer style but we are going with the whole bird this go around.

Ninja Foodi Frozen Whole Chicken

You can use any brand you might have at home. Note that 5 quart would be the smallest you could use whether it is an AirWave or Ninja Foodi. Larger is obviously better and you could fit a bit larger bird but smaller would be hard to fit properly. Remember that there won’t be any give since it is still rock hard to begin with.

Seasoning frozen chicken is actually possible with a bit of olive oil to get it to stick. This is an essential step to enhance its flavor. You can use a variety of herbs, spices, and marinades according to your taste preferences. A simple and versatile combination includes salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Gently massage the seasoning onto the chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated. You could even use a bottled already blended together poultry seasoning which works well. I love a bit of Old Bay too, that is not just for seafood y’all.

Air Fryer Whole Chicken Frozen

What size chicken fits in a 5 quart air fryer? You need one a bit smaller which is another reason I love organic poultry. You get the same amount of meat really, with less fat, in a smaller bird. A 3-4 pound package will usually work with this size. Of course each one is a bit different. Cornish hens in air fryer work too. You can fit 1-2 depending on the shape of your basket.

You have to remember that if it were thawed you could be able to move it around because it would be pliable, not in this case. If you are worried about the size go for a 3 pound whole chicken to start with and go from there. The timing will vary by about 10 minutes depending on the weight and fat content.

To get it to defrost, cook all the way thru and crispy chicken skin we are going to rotate it 3 times during the 60ish minute process. You are going to need to get out;

• 3-4 lb whole chicken frozen
• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• 1.5 tsp paprika and salt
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• Black pepper

Frozen Chicken in Air Fryer

When you are cooking frozen chicken in air fryer, or any protein for that matter, you want the temperature to be a bit lower. Similar to when you’re pressure cooking, like with our Instant Pot frozen whole chicken, the timing isn’t a lot different actually.

• Preheat air fryer to 350 for 5 minutes.
• If you choose to rinse, pat the chicken dry after that.
• Remove chicken from plastic packaging and rub olive oil or cooking spray all over. In a small bowl mix seasonings and sprinkle on top to stick, can massage it on to coat.
• Spray inside of air fryer basket and set chicken in with breast side facing up.
• Close and cook for 10 minutes.
• Open, if there are giblets in the cavity you should be able to pull it out now. (I choose organic that does not have a giblet bag and says so on the package).
• Flip chicken over and cook for 25 minutes. Then open once again and flip over the final time.
• Air fry for another 20-25 minutes or until the meat thermometer reaches 165 degrees F inside thigh of roasted chicken.
• For crispier skin, spray the top with olive oil 10 minutes before it is done cooking.

THAT is how to cook an air fryer whole chicken recipe y’all. Just. Like. That. When you cook a whole chicken you may have some left. I hate wasting so refer to our leftover chicken recipes here for ideas tomorrow. Under 30 minute meals we love.

How to Pick the Best Whole Chicken

Look for a chicken with firm, plump flesh. Check the expiration or “sell by” date on the packaging or ask the butcher for the freshest bird available. Additionally, inspect for any signs of discoloration, unpleasant odors, or excess moisture, which could indicate spoilage.

1. Determine the size of the chicken that suits your needs. Consider the number of people you plan to serve, desired leftovers, and size of your basket. A larger one may yield more meat, but it will also require longer cooking times. Smaller ones will fit better and tend to be more tender.
2. The skin should have a light, translucent appearance. Avoid chickens with dry or wrinkled skin, as this may indicate dehydration or age.
3. It should have a pinkish hue. However, the color may vary depending on the breed and diet of the bird. If it appears pale or discolored, it may be an indication of poor quality or improper handling.
4. If purchasing from a grocery store, inspect the packaging for any signs of damage, leaks, or tears. Ensure that the chicken is stored at the appropriate temperature to maintain freshness.
   • you may want to look for verbiage on the bag stating there are no giblets inside, that is easier to cook in this case.
5. Organic or free-range chickens are what we choose because they are leaner, typically raised without antibiotics and have access to outdoor areas.

Remember to practice good food safety by storing and handling the chicken properly, and cook it to the appropriate internal temperature to ensure it is safe to eat.