Cooking a whole chicken in an air fryer is a game-changer, delivering incredibly crispy skin and juicy, tender meat with far less mess and time than traditional methods. If you’re looking for the best air fryer for whole chicken, you’ve come to the right place. We know that finding an air fryer large enough for a whole bird, yet still efficient and easy to use, can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide, testing and reviewing top models to help you pick the perfect kitchen companion for your next Sunday roast or weeknight dinner.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Air Fryer For Whole Chicken Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Typhur Sync 8QT Ceramic Air Fryer with Built-in Wireless Thermometer for 6lb Whole Chicken
The Typhur Sync 8QT Ceramic Air Fryer is a standout choice for anyone serious about perfectly cooked meals, especially a whole chicken. Its innovative built-in wireless thermometer takes the guesswork out of cooking, ensuring your chicken reaches ideal doneness every time. This advanced feature, combined with its generous capacity, makes it a top contender for the best air fryer for whole chicken.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Built-in Wireless Thermometer: Monitors internal meat temperature in real-time for precise cooking.
- ✓ NIST-Verified Accuracy: Features 5 internal sensors with ±0.5°F accuracy for consistent results.
- ✓ 8QT Family-Sized Capacity: A spacious 10.3×10.3-inch cooking area easily accommodates a 6lb whole chicken.
- ✓ Ceramic Non-Stick Coating: Ensures durability, even cooking, and effortless cleanup.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Typhur Sync 8QT because it genuinely simplifies cooking a whole chicken. The integrated thermometer is a game-changer, eliminating the need to constantly check with a separate probe and ensuring juicy results. Its robust build and user-friendly interface make it a joy to use for daily meals and special occasions.
Best For
This air fryer is best for home cooks who prioritize precision and consistency, especially when cooking larger items like a whole chicken or roasts, and appreciate smart, innovative kitchen technology.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Precise temperature control with built-in wireless thermometer.
- Generous 8QT capacity perfect for a 6lb whole chicken.
- Durable ceramic non-stick coating for easy cleaning.
- Stops automatically when target temperature is reached.
Cons:
- Premium price point compared to basic models.
- The app integration might have a slight learning curve for some users.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: As someone who has gone through three different air fryers in the past few years, I rely on these appliances for quick, healthy, and convenient meals. My latest addition has been this large-capacity Typhur Sync. The wireless thermometer is truly revolutionary; my chicken has never been so consistently perfect. It’s a fantastic appliance for family meals and roasts.
Customer Review: As die-hard Ninja brand fans, until Ninja customer service failed us in our first need for help, we were very challenged to find a good air fryer with a large capacity, durability, and operational options. After testing 10 large-capacity air fryers, our recommendation is the Typhur 8QT Sync Air Fryer. It cooks beautifully and the smart features are top-notch.
2. CHEFMAN XL 10L Digital Air Fryer with Rotisserie and Convection Oven. Large Viewing Window.
The CHEFMAN XL 10L Digital Air Fryer stands out as an excellent multi-functional appliance, especially if you’re looking for an air fryer that can handle a whole chicken with flair. Its generous 10-liter capacity and included rotisserie function mean you can roast a perfectly golden-brown bird. The large viewing window is a fantastic bonus, letting you monitor your meal without opening the door and losing heat.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Versatile 5-in-1 Functionality: Air fry, bake, dehydrate, rotisserie, and roast, making it a true convection oven replacement.
- ✓ Large 10L Capacity: Ample space for roasting a whole chicken or preparing large family meals.
- ✓ Rotisserie Function: Comes with rotisserie accessories for evenly cooked and extra crispy poultry.
- ✓ Large Viewing Window: Allows you to watch your food cook to perfection without interrupting the process.
- ✓ Rapid Air Heating: Cooks faster than traditional ovens, ensuring quick and crispy results.
Why We Recommend It
This Chefman air fryer is a top pick because of its versatility and dedicated rotisserie function, which is ideal for a whole chicken. It effectively replaces several countertop appliances, saving space and making healthy cooking easy. The ability to watch your food through the window is also a really nice touch.
Best For
This appliance is best for families or individuals who want a multi-purpose kitchen gadget that can air fry, roast a whole chicken on a rotisserie, and handle various other cooking tasks efficiently.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent for rotisserie chicken and other roasted meats.
- Multifunctional design replaces several kitchen appliances.
- Large viewing window is convenient for monitoring food.
- Digital controls are intuitive and easy to use.
Cons:
- Can be bulky for smaller kitchen countertops.
- Cleaning the interior around the heating element can be a bit tricky.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: It’s my first air fryer. Why have I deprived myself so long? This thing is easy to use, comes with three grates + a grease pan (or whatever you call it), quick to cook, and holds a lot of food. I use it every day, probably twice a day. I’ve only tried the air fry option – not bake or dehydration. I cooked a whole chicken and it was amazing!
Customer Review: Where has this been all my life? So the window is great. The rotisserie worked well. Cleaning is of course a thing. It does have a tray that comes out. So far no issues. The way the settings are is a bit odd because they only show up when you push one of the main buttons, but that is pretty minor. This unit makes a fantastic rotisserie chicken.
3. Chefman TurboFry Touch XL 8-Qt Stainless Steel Air Fryer with Digital Control.
For those seeking an affordable yet capable option for cooking a whole chicken, the Chefman TurboFry Touch XL 8-Qt Air Fryer is an excellent budget-friendly choice. Its 8-quart capacity is suitable for a medium-sized bird, delivering crispy results with minimal oil. This stainless steel unit combines digital convenience with efficient air frying, making healthy cooking accessible without breaking the bank.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 8-Quart XL Capacity: Ample space for family-sized meals, including a medium whole chicken.
- ✓ Digital Touch Control: Easy-to-use digital interface with preset functions for various foods.
- ✓ Stainless Steel Design: Offers a sleek look and enhanced durability for your kitchen.
- ✓ LED Shake Reminder: Ensures even crispiness by prompting you to shake the basket during cooking.
- ✓ Healthy Frying: Achieves crispy results using up to 98% less oil compared to traditional deep frying.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Chefman TurboFry Touch XL because it delivers impressive performance for its price point. It’s a reliable option for getting that perfectly crispy skin on a whole chicken, and its digital controls make operation incredibly straightforward. It proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy delicious air-fried meals.
Best For
This air fryer is best for budget-conscious consumers who need an 8-quart capacity for a whole chicken and appreciate a straightforward, efficient digital air fryer without extra bells and whistles.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for money and a budget-friendly option.
- Generous 8-quart capacity for family meals.
- Easy-to-use digital touch controls with preset options.
- Sleek stainless steel aesthetic.
Cons:
- No advanced features like a built-in thermometer or rotisserie.
- Some users might find the basket shape less optimal for very wide items.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: The media could not be loaded. This Chefman air fryer works amazing. It heats up fast, cooks evenly, and the digital controls are very easy to use. The basket is a good size for family portions, and cleaning it is super simple. I’ve made fries, chicken, and veggies, and everything comes out crispy and perfect. A medium whole chicken fits and cooks beautifully.
Customer Review: I was looking for an air fryer, something at least mid-range, and this one really stood out, while I didn’t find many reviews outside of just Amazon, what I did see was largely positive. Its been less than a week, but I’m happy I bought this, especially the luck of it going on sale. The air fryer has been great, easy to use and cleans up quickly.
4. Ninja 10 QT Air Fryer with Built-in Thermometer, Ideal for Roasting Whole Chicken.
The Ninja 10 QT Air Fryer is a powerful and intelligent choice for those who frequently cook for larger families or entertain guests. With its impressive 10-quart capacity and a clever built-in thermometer, it’s perfectly suited for roasting a large whole chicken to perfection. The dual-zone technology is a game-changer, allowing you to cook a complete meal simultaneously, making it one of the best air fryer for whole chicken options for busy kitchens.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Smart Cook System: Integrated Foodi Smart Thermometer ensures precise doneness from rare to well-done.
- ✓ 10 QT XL Capacity: Ample space across two baskets, easily accommodating a large whole chicken or multiple dishes.
- ✓ DualZone Technology: Features Smart Finish to cook two foods that finish at the same time, or Match Cook to duplicate settings.
- ✓ Two Independent Air Fryer Baskets: Allows for cooking different foods with different settings simultaneously.
- ✓ Roasting Capability: Ideal for roasting larger cuts of meat, including a delicious whole chicken.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend the Ninja 10 QT Air Fryer for its unparalleled convenience and smart cooking capabilities. The dual baskets and built-in thermometer make cooking a complex meal, like a whole chicken with sides, incredibly simple and efficient. It takes the stress out of meal prep and guarantees fantastic results.
Best For
This Ninja air fryer is best for larger families, meal preppers, or anyone who frequently cooks a whole chicken and needs the flexibility to prepare multiple items at once, all while ensuring perfect doneness.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- DualZone technology saves time by cooking two things at once.
- Integrated thermometer ensures perfectly cooked results every time.
- Large 10-quart capacity is excellent for big families or entertaining.
- Versatile functions beyond just air frying, including roasting.
Cons:
- Takes up significant counter space due to its size.
- Higher price point than single-basket air fryers.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: This Ninja air fryer is a lifesaver for our family dinners. I can roast a whole chicken in one basket and air fry veggies in the other, and they both finish at the exact same time! The thermometer is incredibly accurate, leading to the juiciest chicken every single time. It’s a fantastic investment.
Customer Review: I was hesitant about the size, but the 10QT capacity and DualZone technology are worth it. I’ve roasted several whole chickens, and they come out with beautiful crispy skin and perfectly cooked inside. Cleanup is also surprisingly easy for a unit this size. Highly recommend for busy households.
5. Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven: 26QT, Stainless Steel, Digital.
For those who need maximum capacity and versatility, the Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven is a powerhouse. Its massive 26-quart capacity and multi-cooker functions make it an ideal choice for roasting large whole chickens, turkeys, or preparing entire family meals. The elegant French door design and stainless steel finish add a touch of sophistication to your kitchen, making it a strong contender for the best air fryer for whole chicken if space isn’t an issue.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Extra Large 26QT Capacity: Easily accommodates a large whole chicken or even a small turkey, ideal for big families.
- ✓ Multi-Cooker Combo: Functions as an air fryer, toaster oven, roaster, dehydrator, and more.
- ✓ Elegant French Door Design: Provides easy access and a stylish appearance on your countertop.
- ✓ 360º Superheated Air Circulation: Ensures golden-fried crisping and even cooking results.
- ✓ Digital Controls: User-friendly interface for precise temperature and time adjustments.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Emeril Lagasse French Door Air Fryer because it’s incredibly versatile and boasts a truly impressive capacity. If you’re looking to replace multiple appliances and frequently cook for a crowd, its ability to roast a large whole chicken with ease, along with its other functions, makes it a fantastic all-in-one solution. The French doors are also a great practical feature.
Best For
This appliance is best for large families, individuals who entertain frequently, or those seeking a highly versatile multi-cooker that can easily handle roasting a very large whole chicken and other substantial dishes.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Massive 26-quart capacity for large whole chickens and big meals.
- Highly versatile, replacing numerous kitchen appliances.
- Stylish French door design and stainless steel finish.
- Excellent for even cooking and crisping with 360º air circulation.
Cons:
- Requires significant countertop space due to its large footprint.
- Can take longer to preheat compared to smaller, basket-style air fryers.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: I love this countertop multitasking thing! It is versatile and customizable, it does everything well, and produces results like results are supposed to be produced. Only a small learning curve, which I appreciate. Perfect size, many accessories available, easy to keep clean. Decent price for big performance. I can easily roast a big whole chicken here.
Customer Review: Nice looking oven. Perfect size for our family. Many functions. Works really well. Easy to use. So far, very satisfied with it! The French doors are super handy, and the air fryer function makes the best crispy chicken I’ve ever had from an oven.
Complete Buying Guide for Best Air Fryer For Whole Chicken
Essential Factors We Consider
When searching for the best air fryer for whole chicken, several factors are absolutely critical. First and foremost is capacity; you need an air fryer that can physically fit your typical whole chicken, usually an 8-quart minimum for a 4-6lb bird, and more for larger ones. Look for models with a wider basket or oven-style design. Power and heating consistency are also key; a higher wattage generally means faster preheating and more even cooking. Features like a built-in thermometer can prevent over or undercooking, while a rotisserie function is a bonus for truly uniform crisping. Finally, consider ease of cleaning – removable, dishwasher-safe parts make a huge difference after a messy chicken roast.
Budget Planning
Air fryers for whole chickens come in a range of prices, typically from $80 to $300+. Basic 8-quart basket models might be on the lower end, offering solid air frying capabilities without many extra features. Mid-range options often include larger capacities (10-12 quarts), digital controls, and perhaps a rotisserie. High-end models will boast advanced features like smart thermometers, dual zones, or multi-functionality (like an air fryer oven with French doors). Determine your budget based on the size of chicken you typically cook and how many additional features (like dehydrating or toast functions) are important to you. Remember, a higher price often correlates with larger capacity and more convenience features.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best air fryer for whole chicken really boils down to balancing capacity, features, and your budget. Think about how often you’ll be cooking a whole bird, whether you need other cooking functions, and how much counter space you have. All the air fryers on our list are fantastic choices, but selecting the right one for you means considering your specific needs. From precision cooking with a smart thermometer to versatile multi-function ovens, there’s an air fryer out there ready to make your next whole chicken dish absolutely delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How big of an air fryer do I need for a whole chicken?
A: For a standard 4-6 pound whole chicken, an 8-quart air fryer is usually the minimum size required. If you often cook larger chickens (6-8 pounds) or prefer more space for better airflow, a 10-quart or even 12-quart capacity is recommended. Oven-style air fryers, like the Emeril Lagasse 26QT model, offer even more room.
Q: Can I put a whole chicken in any air fryer?
A: No, not all air fryers are designed to fit a whole chicken. Smaller basket-style air fryers (under 8 quarts) often lack the vertical or horizontal space. You need an air fryer specifically marketed with “XL” or “XXL” capacity, or an oven-style model, to comfortably roast a whole bird.
Q: How long does it take to air fry a whole chicken?
A: Air frying a whole chicken typically takes between 45 to 70 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken (e.g., a 4lb chicken might take 45-55 mins, a 6lb chicken 60-70 mins), the air fryer’s wattage, and your desired crispiness. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
Q: Is a rotisserie feature important for whole chicken?
A: While not strictly necessary, a rotisserie feature can significantly enhance the cooking of a whole chicken. It allows the chicken to rotate, ensuring incredibly even cooking and crisping on all sides, often resulting in a superior texture and appearance. Air fryers like the CHEFMAN XL 10L offer this convenience.
Q: How do I get crispy skin on my whole air-fried chicken?
A: To achieve crispy skin, pat your chicken thoroughly dry before seasoning. Brush or spray lightly with oil (like olive or avocado oil) and season well. Cook at a relatively high temperature (around 375-400°F or 190-200°C) for the majority of the cooking time, perhaps finishing with a few minutes at a higher temperature. Ensuring proper airflow around the chicken also helps.
There you have it – our top picks for the best air fryer for whole chicken! We hope this guide helps you find the perfect appliance to bring juicy, crispy whole chickens to your dinner table with ease. Whether you prioritize smart features, versatility, or budget-friendliness, there’s an option here for you. Don’t wait to upgrade your kitchen and enjoy the convenience and delicious results of air-fried whole chicken. Click here to check out the best deals on Amazon and start cooking!
