Pollo Campero-Style Air Fryer Fried Chicken
If you're a fan of crispy, golden fried chicken but want a healthier alternative, you're in the right place! This Pollo Campero-style fried chicken made in the air fryer offers the same delicious crunch and rich flavor as traditional fried chicken but with a fraction of the oil.
Whether you're looking to make a quick weeknight dinner or impress your guests with a crowd-pleasing dish, this recipe will satisfy your craving for comfort food without the guilt.
Why Pollo Campero?
Pollo Campero has become a beloved fried chicken brand in many Latin American countries, with its unique flavor profile thanks to a blend of Latin American spices. Known for its crispy exterior and juicy interior, it’s the perfect inspiration for this air fryer version.
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In this recipe, we’ll mimic the signature seasoning while using healthier cooking methods to achieve that same irresistible crunch.
A Brief History of Pollo Campero
Pollo Campero was founded in Guatemala in 1971, and quickly became a sensation for its fried chicken recipes that combine a variety of bold spices and flavors. As the brand expanded across the globe, its signature crispy chicken became a favorite among food lovers.
Its impact on fast food, especially within the Latin American community, is undeniable, and now you can recreate this iconic dish at home in a way that’s healthier, faster, and just as delicious!
The Secret to Juicy Version: Marinating is Key
One of the keys to Pollo Campero-style fried chicken is the marinade. Marinating not only infuses the chicken with rich flavors but also helps tenderize the meat, making it juicy on the inside. Here's how to make the best marinade for this dish:
- Lemon and Garlic – The acidic lemon helps break down the proteins in the chicken, keeping it tender and juicy. Garlic adds that unmistakable savory kick that complements the spices perfectly.
- Spices – A blend of paprika, cumin, oregano, and black pepper gives the chicken that signature flavor we all love from Pollo Campero. These spices create a depth of flavor that transforms the chicken from basic to extraordinary.
- Buttermilk – A key ingredient for tenderizing the meat, buttermilk provides the perfect texture for that crispy coating. It also adds a subtle tang that balances out the spices.
Let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour, but for best results, let it soak in the flavors for up to 2 hours. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful and tender it will be.
Just don’t leave it in the marinade for too long, as the acid in the lemon could begin to "cook" the chicken, affecting the texture.
Air Fryer Magic: Crispy, Golden, and Guilt-Free
The air fryer is a game-changer for making fried chicken. It uses hot air to cook the chicken to crispy perfection without the excess oil. The result? A chicken that’s just as crispy as deep-fried, but without the heaviness.
Plus, it's quicker and requires less cleanup than traditional frying methods!
Why Choose the Air Fryer?
Air fryers cook food by circulating hot air around it, which mimics the process of deep-frying but without submerging the food in oil. This technique results in food that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside but with far fewer calories.
It’s perfect for those who love fried foods but want to make healthier choices.
In addition to frying chicken, air fryers are incredibly versatile—they can bake, roast, and grill, making them a perfect tool for quick and easy weeknight dinners.
Tips for the Perfect Air Fryer Fried Chicken
- Preheat your air fryer – Always preheat your air fryer for the best results. This helps the chicken cook evenly and crisp up faster.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket – To achieve an even cook, ensure the pieces of chicken don’t touch or overlap in the basket. If necessary, cook in batches.
- Spray with cooking oil – Lightly spray the chicken with cooking spray to help achieve that golden, crispy crust without adding excess oil.
- Flip halfway through – For even crispiness, flip the chicken pieces halfway through the cooking process.
Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the chicken for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Depending on the size of your chicken pieces, you might need to adjust the time slightly. Keep an eye on the chicken to ensure it’s golden brown and fully cooked.
The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
Serving and Pairing
Once your Pollo Campero-style fried chicken is cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve it up! Here are a few ideas for side dishes that complement the chicken:
- Cole Slaw – The tangy crunch of cole slaw balances out the richness of the fried chicken.
- Fries – Serve classic crispy fries on the side for a true fast food experience.
- Fresh Salad – A light, refreshing green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a nice contrast to the richness of the chicken.
- Mexican Rice – For a complete Latin-inspired meal, serve the fried chicken with Mexican rice for a satisfying, flavorful dish.
Pair your meal with a cold Mexican beer or a tropical fruit punch to bring out the vibrant flavors of the chicken. If you prefer a non-alcoholic drink, consider a refreshing limeade or agua fresca to complete the experience.
Additional Tips for Success
- Use bone-in, skin-on chicken – Bone-in pieces will retain more moisture and result in juicier meat. Plus, the skin gets extra crispy!
- Check for doneness – Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) to avoid undercooking.
- Experiment with spices – Feel free to adjust the seasoning blend to your liking. Add more cayenne pepper for a spicier version or include cilantro for a fresh burst of flavor. You can also play with chili powder or turmeric for unique variations on this classic.
Enjoy Your Healthier, Air-Fried Pollo Campero
Now that you’ve learned how to make Pollo Campero-style fried chicken in the air fryer, there’s no need to worry about excess oil or calories.
This method allows you to enjoy the same great taste with far less fat, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
The air fryer gives you that crispy, golden finish without sacrificing flavor, so you can indulge in a healthier version of this Latin American favorite.
Get ready to impress your guests with this crispy, juicy, and delicious chicken, and feel good knowing you're making a healthier choice. Whether it's for a casual meal or a special occasion, this air fryer fried chicken will be a hit. Happy cooking!
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Source: Sabroso
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