Step 1

Start preparing the chicken thighs by rinsing the chicken and patting them dry. Then cover all the pieces with 2 cups of buttermilk. Soak in the refrigerator for 4 - 24 hours.

Step 2

30 minutes prior to cooking, move chicken from fridge to the counter and allow to come up to room temperature.

Step 3

Prepare the breading by adding flour and all seasonings to a medium bowl. Pour in the remaining half cup of buttermilk. Mix with a fork until slightly lumpy.

Step 4

Take four pieces of chicken at a time and thoroughly coat both sides of each piece with the breading, then set aside on a plate.

Step 5

Preheat air fryer to 400F / 200C.

Step 6

Place breaded chicken in the Air Fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch. Lightly spray with oil.

Step 7

Cook for 10-16 minutes depending on the size of the chicken. Halfway through, flip the chicken and spray again with oil, if needed.

Step 8

Check for doneness usin g a meat thermometer to make sure the internal temperature is 165F / 74C.

Step 9

Complete steps 1-4 from the Air Fryer section.

Step 10

Preheat the oven to 350F / 177C.

Step 11

Heat 1 cup of vegetable oil and 5 tablespoons butter in a deep skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 12

Add 4 pieces of chicken at a time to the oil, fry for 3 minutes each side, checking occasionally to make sure the chicken isn't getting too brown. Note - they will NOT be thoroughly cooked yet.

Step 13

Transfer the chicken to a baking sheet and cook in the oven for 15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165F / 74C.