Crispy Air Fryer Pollo Campero Chicken

Get ready to bring the vibrant flavors of Guatemala right to your dinner table with this mouthwatering Pollo Campero Air Fryer Chicken recipe. Inspired by the bold spices and zesty lime marinade from the iconic Pollo Campero chain, this dish is a surefire hit that will have your taste buds dancing with each crispy, flavorful bite.

Marinated in a tangy lime juice and a medley of spices, then air-fried to golden perfection, this Pollo Campero-style chicken is a delightful Latin-flavored favorite that will have your family and friends coming back for more. The secret to success lies in the perfect balance of seasoning, ensuring that every morsel is bursting with savory goodness and that satisfying crunch we all crave.

Whether you’re reminiscing about your travels to Guatemala or simply looking to spice up your weeknight dinner routine, this Pollo Campero Air Fryer Chicken is a must-try recipe that promises to transport you to the bustling streets of Latin America with its irresistible aroma and unforgettable taste. So, fire up your air fryer, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor a truly delicious culinary experience that will have everyone gathered around your table asking for seconds.

Quick Benefits

• Bursting with flavor from lime and bold spices in the marinade
• Achieves a crispy, crunchy skin through air frying with minimal hassle
• Versatile recipe that can be customized with different spice levels and sides
• Easy to make with readily available ingredients and simple substitutions

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Air Fryer Pollo Campero Chicken Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: Soaking the chicken in lime and spices results in every bite bursting with taste, making it a flavorful dish that is sure to delight your taste buds.
• Crunchy Perfection: The air frying method ensures that the chicken skin is incredibly crispy, offering that satisfying crunch we all crave in fried chicken.
• Easy and Hassle-Free: This recipe simplifies the process of making crispy, flavorful chicken at home, making it a favorite go-to meal that requires minimal effort.
• Versatile and Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice levels to suit your preference by adding or reducing cayenne, making this recipe adaptable to different taste preferences.
• Great for Entertaining: Whether you’re hosting a game night or a casual gathering, this dish is bound to be a hit with guests who will appreciate the bold flavors and crunchy texture.
• Memories on a Plate: If you want to experience the lively, Latin zing reminiscent of Guatemala, this dish is a perfect way to bring those flavors to your table and create unforgettable moments with loved ones.
• Perfect Leftovers: The chicken stays flavorful even when stored in the fridge, making it a convenient option for meal prepping or enjoying leftovers on busy days.

Ingredients for Crispy Air Fryer Pollo Campero Chicken

• 2 teaspoons dried sazón seasoning.
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder.
• 1/2 tablespoon ground black pepper.
• 1 tablespoon salt.
• 1 tablespoon adobo seasoning.
• 2 teaspoons oregano flakes.
• 8 chicken pieces (4 thighs, 4 drumsticks), bone-in, with skin.
• Juice from 4 limes.
• 1 teaspoon salt.
• Non-stick cooking spray.
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin.
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne for heat.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour.
• 4 minced garlic cloves.

Pro Tips for Crispy Air Fryer Pollo Campero Chicken

To ensure your Pollo Campero Air Fryer Chicken turns out perfectly crispy and packed with flavor, follow these pro tips. First, avoid marinating the chicken in lime for more than two hours to prevent the meat from becoming mushy. Secondly, make sure the chicken is completely dry before coating it with the breading to help it adhere better. Lastly, spread the chicken pieces out in the air fryer to allow for even cooking and maximum crispiness, and don’t forget to give them a light mist of oil before cooking for that extra crunch.

For a fun twist on the recipe, consider swapping bone-in chicken for boneless pieces, just remember that boneless chicken cooks faster so keep an eye on it to prevent drying out. And if you’re looking to add more heat to the dish, feel free to incorporate extra cayenne into the flour or blend hot sauce into the marinade. You can also serve the cooked chicken with your favorite spicy sauce for an added kick.

How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Pollo Campero Chicken

Step 1: Prepare Chicken Marinade

Combine garlic, salt, sazón, lime juice, cumin, oregano, and black pepper in a bag. Add chicken, seal the bag, shake to coat evenly, and refrigerate for 1-2 hours.

Step 2: Mix Flour Coating

Combine flour, salt, black pepper, adobo seasoning, cumin, and cayenne in a bowl, and mix until well combined.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Remove chicken from marinade, pat dry, and coat thoroughly in flour mixture.

Step 4: Let Chicken Sit

Transfer the breaded chicken to a plate and let it rest for 10-15 minutes.

Step 5: Get Air Fryer Ready

Lightly coat the air fryer basket with non-stick spray. Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer without overlapping.

Step 6: Cook in Air Fryer

Lightly spray chicken with oil and air fry at 400°F for 20 minutes. Flip, spray again, and continue frying for an additional 10-15 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 7: Plate and Serve

Allow the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving with your favorite sides.

Storage Tips

After preparing the Pollo Campero Air Fryer Chicken, any leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for about five days. To maintain the crispy texture when reheating, it’s recommended to warm the chicken in the air fryer at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for a few minutes. Alternatively, using a low oven setting will also work, but be cautious not to overheat and dry out the chicken.

When storing the leftover chicken, ensure it is kept in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in foil to help preserve its flavor and moisture. Consider separating the chicken into individual portions for easier reheating later on. This delicious Latin-inspired dish can be enjoyed as a quick and flavorful meal throughout the week, bringing the taste of Guatemala right to your table.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer boneless chicken, feel free to swap in boneless chicken pieces instead of the bone-in ones. Keep in mind that boneless chicken cooks faster, so be sure to monitor it closely to prevent it from drying out.

If you don’t have sazón or adobo seasoning on hand, you can easily make your own substitutes. For sazón, combine garlic powder, cumin, annatto, and coriander. For adobo, mix garlic powder, onion powder, salt, oregano, and a pinch of pepper.

To add more heat to the dish, consider incorporating extra cayenne into the flour coating or blending some hot sauce into the marinade. For an extra spicy twist, you can also dip the cooked chicken in your favorite spicy sauce.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try pairing this Pollo Campero Air Fryer Chicken with a refreshing mango salsa. The sweet and tangy flavors of the salsa complement the bold spices of the chicken, creating a delicious contrast. Simply dice ripe mangoes, red onion, jalapeños, and cilantro, then toss with lime juice and a pinch of salt for a vibrant topping that adds an extra layer of flavor to your meal.

Another fun idea is to serve the crispy Campero-style chicken on a bed of Latin-inspired street corn salad. Mix grilled corn kernels with mayonnaise, cotija cheese, lime juice, chili powder, and cilantro for a creamy and zesty side dish that enhances the meal with its creamy texture and smoky flavors. The combination of the crunchy chicken and the creamy corn salad creates a balanced and satisfying plate that will surely impress your guests.

FAQs for Crispy Air Fryer Pollo Campero Chicken

Can I use boneless chicken instead of bone-in pieces for this recipe?

Yes, you can absolutely swap in boneless chicken for the bone-in pieces. Just keep in mind that boneless chicken cooks faster, so make sure to check for doneness earlier to prevent it from drying out.

What can I substitute for sazón and adobo seasoning if I don’t have them?

If you don’t have sazón seasoning, you can make your own by combining garlic powder, cumin, annatto, and coriander. For adobo seasoning, mix garlic powder, onion powder, salt, oregano, and a bit of pepper as a substitute.

How can I add more heat to the chicken if I prefer spicier flavors?

To increase the heat level, you can add extra cayenne pepper to the flour coating or include hot sauce in the marinade. Another option is to dip the cooked chicken in your favorite spicy sauce for an additional kick.

How long can I marinate the chicken in lime and spices?

You can marinate the chicken in the lime and spice mixture for up to 8 hours in the fridge. Avoid marinating for longer periods as the acid from the lime may affect the texture of the meat if left for too long.

Conclusion

Pollo Campero Air Fryer Chicken is truly a recipe that brings joy and flavor to your table. The crispy skin and burst of lime and spices make each bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re cooking for your family or friends, this dish is sure to be a hit and create lasting memories.

Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own by adjusting the spices or pairing it with your favorite sides. The beauty of cooking is in the creativity and the joy of sharing delicious meals with loved ones. So, go ahead, whip up a batch of Pollo Campero Air Fryer Chicken, and savor the taste of Latin-inspired goodness at your own dinner table.