Air Fryer Whole Roast Chicken

Ingredients

• 1 eachwhole chicken$2.13
• 2 tbspolive oil$1.15
• 1 eachlime$1.47
• 1 tspgarlic powder$0.07
• 1 tspsweet paprika$0.35
• 1 tspdried fine herbs$0.26
• 1 tspsalt$0.01
• 1 tspblack pepper$0.35
• Total for 4 servings$5.79

Most of the cost is whole chicken ($2.13) and lime ($1.47). With oil, spices and staples already at home, the shop drops to about $4.28. Prices are estimated for the amount used, at average US grocery prices (November 2026).

Steps

1. Mix the garlic powder, sweet paprika, dried fine herbs, salt, and black pepper together in a small bowl.
2. Pat the whole chicken thoroughly dry inside and out using paper towels.
3. Rub the olive oil and squeezed lime juice over the skin and into the cavity, then rub the spice mixture firmly over the entire chicken and under the skin.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 180°C for 5 minutes, then place the chicken breast-side down in the air fryer basket and roast at 180°C for 25 to 30 minutes until lightly browned.
5. Carefully flip the chicken breast-side up and continue roasting at 180°C for 20 to 25 minutes, until the skin is deep golden and crisp, juices run clear, and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh reaches at least 74°C.
6. Transfer the chicken to a carving board and let it rest loosely covered for 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
7. Carve the chicken into portions and serve warm.