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Air Fryer Jollibee Copycat Fried Chicken and Gravy

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If you’ve ever tasted the iconic Jollibee Chickenjoy, you already know why it’s the stuff of legend. That crispy, golden coating hiding tender, juicy meat, all paired with a savory brown gravy that makes you wonder why you ever settled for regular fried chicken. But what if you could bring that fast-food magic home—with way less oil and a whole lot more fun? Say hello to your new best friend: the air fryer.

This air fryer version of Jollibee’s beloved fried chicken gives you all the crunch without the deep-frying mess. We’re talking beautifully seasoned skin with meat that stays juicy on the inside and that oh-so-satisfying first bite that cracks like a good drum solo. The secret? A smart blend of pantry spices, a sprinkle of baking powder to encourage crisp, and just the right air fryer timing to get that crave-worthy oil free crisp.

Of course, no Chickenjoy experience is complete without the rich, comforting brown gravy—practically a warm hug in sauce form. Our gravy is a quick, savory miracle made from scratch in minutes, with buttery notes, umami flavor, and a silky texture that brings the whole dish together. Dunk, drizzle, or drown your chicken—no judgment here.

Whether you’re a longtime Jollibee devotee or a curious newbie looking for something fun to cook this weekend, this recipe brings bold Filipino flavor with a lighter, modern twist. It’s perfect for family dinners, food-loving friends, or solo self-care meals (yes, you can eat three pieces—no one’s watching).

Ready to make your kitchen the happiest place on earth? Grab your apron, fire up that air fryer, and let’s make magic—one crispy, juicy bite at a time.

Air Fryer Jollibee Copycat Fried Chicken and Gravy

Recipe by Julia Vuong
0.0 from 0 votes
Course: MainCuisine: American, Filipino
Servings

2

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

25

minutes
Total time

40

minutes

Ingredients

  • 4 4 chicken thighs

  • 1 tbsp 1 baking powder

  • 1 tsp 1 garlic salt

  • 1 tsp 1 paprika

  • 1 tsp 1 garlic powder

  • 1/2 tsp 1/2 cayenne pepper

  • 1/4 tsp 1/4 black pepper

  • vegetable oil spray (can sub for your preferred oil)

  • Chicken Flour Coat Mix
  • 1/2 cup 1/2 flour

  • 1/2 cup 1/2 cornstarch

  • 1 tbsp 1 garlic salt

  • 1 tsp 1 paprika

  • 1 tsp 1 garlic powder

  • 1/2 tsp 1/2 cayenne pepper

  • 1/4 tsp 1/4 black pepper

  • 2 tbsp 2 water

  • Brown Gravy
  • 3 tbsp 3 unsalted butter

  • 3 tbsp 3 flour

  • 1 tsp 1 chicken boullion

  • 1/2 tsp 1/2 black pepper

  • 2 cups 2 chicken broth

Directions

  • Sprinkle baking powder all over the chicken thighs and rub it on (this is the key to getting the skin super crispy). Mix garlic salt, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and pepper. Season the chicken thighs.
  • In a big bowl, mix all the ingredients in the “Chicken Flour Coat Mix” section above. Add and mix droplets of water in the seasoned flour mixture (this will help create texture on the chicken skin). Toss the chicken thighs into the mixing bowl and thoroughly coat each chicken piece.
  • Place the chicken thighs skin side down in an air fryer and spray with cooking oil. Air fry at 385F degrees for 12 minutes then flip over to skin side up, spray with oil, and air fry for another 10-12 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Sprinkle on more cayenne pepper for spice after done air frying.
  • In a sauce pan, melt butter and flour. Constantly stir on low-medium heat until it turns a medium brown color. Immediately pour in chicken broth at a steady stream and whisk at the same time. Season with chicken bouillon and pepper. Boil and stir for 2-3 minutes or until desired thickness.
  • Enjoy!

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