Chicken Inasal is a flavorful Filipino dish known for its smoky taste and distinct marinade. This air fryer version delivers the same rich flavor without the hassle of grilling. By using an air fryer, you get a perfectly cooked, juicy chicken with crispy skin, all infused with the signature marinade ingredients.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (or other cuts like thighs, breasts, etc.)
• 2 stalks lemongrass
• 6 cloves garlic
• 2-inch piece ginger
• 2 limes (or calamansi for traditional flavor)
• 3 tbsp fish sauce
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp annatto powder
• 2 Thai chilis (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp annatto seeds (for basting)

Directions

1. Prepare the marinade: Smash lemongrass, garlic, and julienne the ginger. Add to a bowl with lime zest and juice, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, annatto powder, Thai chilis, salt, and pepper.
2. Spatchcock the chicken for even cooking. Place the chicken in the marinade and cover. Marinate for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F. Line the tray with parchment or foil.
4. Air fry the chicken at 350°F for 25 minutes, basting with the annatto butter every 10 minutes.
5. Check the internal temperature (165°F) to ensure the chicken is fully cooked. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 300-350 per serving (based on a 3 oz portion)
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbs: 3-5g
• Sodium: 600-800mg
• Fiber: 1g

Marinating and Flavor Development

The key to the rich, complex flavor of Chicken Inasal lies in its marinade. Traditional Inasal marinades are a mix of sour, salty, and sweet flavors, often incorporating local ingredients like calamansi, lemongrass, and annatto. These ingredients not only tenderize the chicken but also impart a depth of flavor that makes this dish stand out. In this air fryer version, the marinade quickly penetrates the chicken, infusing every bite with boldness. Allowing the chicken to marinate for several hours, or even overnight, will maximize the flavor development.

Cooking in the Air Fryer

One of the biggest challenges with traditional Inasal is the grilling process. While grilling brings a delicious smoky flavor, it also requires constant attention and careful temperature control. The air fryer simplifies this process while still delivering crispy skin and juicy meat. By cooking the chicken at a high temperature, the air fryer mimics the intense heat of a grill, resulting in a crispy, golden exterior while keeping the inside tender and moist. Additionally, the use of the annatto butter for basting during the cooking process helps to maintain that beautiful color and adds extra richness to the flavor.

The Role of Butter and Annatto

Annatto is a defining feature in Chicken Inasal, giving the dish its distinct orange hue. While traditionally achieved through the use of annatto seeds, the flavor can be enhanced by infusing butter with annatto. This basting butter adds both color and richness to the dish, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful throughout the cooking process. The annatto butter also plays a critical role in replicating the smokiness of grilled Chicken Inasal, contributing to the deep, satisfying flavors.

Air Fryer Cooking Time and Temperature

Cooking time and temperature are crucial factors in achieving the perfect air-fried Chicken Inasal. The temperature is typically set at around 350°F, which is ideal for cooking the chicken thoroughly without drying it out. Depending on the size of the chicken or the cuts of meat used, the cooking time may vary. It is essential to check the internal temperature to ensure the chicken reaches at least 165°F for safe consumption. Basting every 10 minutes with the annatto butter ensures that the chicken remains juicy and flavorful throughout the cooking process.

Texture and Flavor Balance

The combination of the crispy skin and tender, juicy meat creates a texture contrast that is one of the highlights of Chicken Inasal. The marinade helps to break down the fibers in the chicken, resulting in a more tender meat while the air fryer achieves a perfect crispness on the skin. The balance of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors also contributes to the overall satisfaction of the dish. Each bite brings a burst of flavor, enhanced by the smokiness from the annatto and the subtle heat from the chilis.

Variations of Chicken Inasal

While this air fryer version stays true to the traditional flavors of Chicken Inasal, there are variations to consider. For instance, some recipes include the use of coconut vinegar instead of regular vinegar, which imparts a unique flavor profile. Depending on regional preferences, the level of spiciness can also be adjusted, with more chilis added for those who enjoy a fiery kick. Additionally, the use of different cuts of chicken, such as wings or thighs, can offer a different experience. Some may opt to serve the chicken with traditional sides like garlic rice or atchara (pickled papaya), which complement the flavors beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Inasal is often served with a variety of sides that enhance its flavors. Garlic rice is a staple pairing, with its fragrant, buttery qualities balancing the tangy and spicy notes of the chicken. A side of atchara, a pickled vegetable dish, adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the meat. For a lighter meal, a simple salad of greens or a serving of steamed vegetables could work well. The chicken can also be enjoyed with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and calamansi for added zing.

Nutritional Considerations

Chicken Inasal made in the air fryer provides a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried dishes. By cooking the chicken in the air fryer, much of the excess fat is rendered out, leaving behind a crispy, flavorful skin without the need for excessive oil. The use of lean chicken, especially breast meat, can lower the overall fat content. Additionally, the dish is rich in protein, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal. The marinade’s ingredients, like lemongrass and ginger, offer added health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties.

Conclusion

Chicken Inasal in the air fryer is a fantastic way to enjoy this traditional Filipino dish with less effort and without sacrificing flavor. The marinade’s depth of flavor, combined with the air fryer’s ability to crisp the chicken, creates a dish that is both juicy and crispy. Whether you’re a fan of the traditional grilled version or looking for a quicker, more convenient method, this recipe delivers a deliciously authentic taste of the Philippines. Its ease of preparation and mouthwatering flavors make it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.