The Ultimate Air Fryer Whole Chicken

Unlock the secret to an impeccably cooked, incredibly juicy, and supremely flavorful whole chicken in your air fryer. This straightforward and delectable recipe is destined to become a staple in your household, offering a sensational meal with surprisingly minimal preparation and cooking time. Imagine: perfectly crispy skin giving way to succulent, tender meat, all achieved in just about an hour!

Transform your dinner table with this show-stopping dish. Pair it exquisitely with our indulgent creamy mashed potatoes, our aromatic roasted herb potatoes, or a vibrant side of grilled lemon pepper asparagus. The result is a truly comforting, family-friendly feast that rivals any restaurant-quality rotisserie chicken.

Why Air Fry a Whole Chicken?

Cooking a whole chicken in an air fryer might seem unconventional, but it’s a culinary game-changer. This method delivers all the desirable qualities of a traditional roasted chicken – a beautifully crisp skin and moist, flavorful meat – but in a fraction of the time. The air fryer circulates hot air rapidly around the chicken, creating a convection effect that mimics deep-frying, yet uses little to no oil. This results in a healthier, quicker, and surprisingly effortless way to enjoy a delicious whole chicken. Forget waiting hours for your oven to preheat and slowly roast; the air fryer makes weeknight whole chicken a reality, tasting remarkably similar to the savory rotisserie chickens you find at the grocery store, with the added benefit of controlling every single ingredient.

Choosing the Perfect Whole Chicken for Your Air Fryer

Selecting the right chicken is the first step to air frying success. Look for a whole chicken that weighs between 3 to 4 pounds. This size typically fits comfortably in most standard air fryer baskets and cooks evenly. Larger chickens might require a longer cooking time or might not fit at all, leading to uneven results. Always choose a fresh, high-quality chicken from a trusted source. Organic or free-range options often offer superior flavor and texture. Before cooking, ensure the chicken is thawed completely if frozen. Patting it thoroughly dry with paper towels is crucial, as this removes excess moisture, which is key to achieving that coveted crispy skin.

Simple Ingredients for an Irresistible Air Fryer Whole Chicken

Crafting a delectable whole chicken in your air fryer is surprisingly simple, requiring only a handful of pantry staples. The beauty of this recipe lies in its ability to produce a mouthwatering, rotisserie-style chicken with ingredients you likely already have on hand. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:

• Whole Chicken: As mentioned, a 3-4 pound bird is ideal for optimal cooking and fit in most air fryers.
• Olive Oil: A light drizzle of olive oil helps the seasonings adhere to the skin and contributes to its crispness. You can also use avocado oil or another high-heat-friendly oil.
• Butter (softened): Spreading softened butter under and over the skin is a secret weapon for incredible flavor and ensures an extra-golden, crispy exterior.
• Seasonings:
  • Smoked Paprika: Adds a beautiful reddish hue and a subtle, smoky depth that elevates the chicken’s flavor profile.
  • Kosher Salt: Essential for seasoning the chicken thoroughly, drawing out moisture, and enhancing its natural taste.
  • Garlic Powder: Provides a savory, aromatic foundation that complements the chicken perfectly.
• Fresh Thyme: The earthy, slightly minty notes of fresh thyme infuse the chicken with an irresistible aroma and taste. You can also use dried thyme, but fresh is highly recommended for superior flavor.
• Honey: A final drizzle of honey after cooking adds a touch of sweetness and a gorgeous glaze, making the skin even more appealing.

The precise measurements for each ingredient are provided in the recipe card at the end of this post. This overview simply outlines the components that will come together to create your amazing air fryer whole chicken.

Essential Tools for Air Frying Success

While the air fryer itself is the star, having a few other tools on hand will ensure your whole chicken cooks perfectly and safely:

• Air Fryer: A large capacity air fryer (at least 5-quart, preferably 6-quart or more) is best to accommodate a whole chicken.
• Paper Towels: Crucial for thoroughly drying the chicken, which is the secret to crispy skin.
• Small Bowl: For mixing your butter and seasoning blend.
• Kitchen Twine: Used for trussing the chicken, helping it cook more evenly and maintain its shape.
• Meat Thermometer: Absolutely essential for ensuring the chicken is cooked through to a safe internal temperature (165°F or 74°C) without overcooking. An instant-read thermometer is highly recommended.
• Tongs or Heat-Resistant Gloves: For safely handling and flipping the hot chicken in the air fryer.
• Cutting Board: For resting and carving the cooked chicken.

Step-by-Step: How to Cook a Whole Chicken in the Air Fryer

Cooking a whole chicken in the air fryer is incredibly straightforward, resulting in a dish that looks and tastes like it took hours of effort. Follow these simple steps for a perfectly cooked bird:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Begin by removing the chicken from its packaging and patting it thoroughly dry with paper towels, both inside and out. This step is vital for achieving crispy skin.
2. Season Generously: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with smoked paprika, kosher salt, and garlic powder. Mix until well blended. Carefully rub this aromatic butter mixture all over the exterior of the chicken. For maximum flavor and crispness, gently lift the skin and spread some of the butter mixture directly onto the meat underneath. This ensures the seasoning penetrates deeply and the skin becomes incredibly savory.
3. Truss the Chicken: Using kitchen twine, tie the legs together and tuck the wings under the body. Trussing helps the chicken cook more evenly by keeping the delicate wing tips from overcooking and ensures a compact, uniform shape for consistent heat distribution in the air fryer.
4. Preheat and Initial Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees F (175°C). Once preheated, carefully place the trussed chicken breast-side down in the air fryer basket. Cook for an initial 30 minutes. This helps the darker meat cook first and allows the breast to be slightly protected from direct heat, preventing it from drying out prematurely.
   • Note: If you don’t own an air fryer or prefer a conventional method, you can achieve a similar result by following our roasted chicken recipe, cooking it in the oven instead.
5. Flip and Continue Cooking: After 30 minutes, carefully flip the chicken so it is now breast-side up. Continue to cook for another 20-30 minutes. The total cooking time will vary depending on the size of your chicken and the specific wattage of your air fryer.
6. Check for Doneness: The most crucial step is ensuring the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone. The temperature should register 165 degrees F (74°C). If it hasn’t reached this temperature, continue cooking in 5-minute increments until it does.
7. Rest for Juiciness: Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the air fryer and transfer it to a cutting board. Loosely tent it with foil and let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is tender and moist.
8. Garnish and Serve: Just before carving, drizzle the warm, cooked chicken generously with honey. This adds a beautiful sheen, a touch of sweetness, and enhances the overall flavor. Slice and serve your perfectly air-fried whole chicken immediately.

You’ll find the complete, detailed recipe, including precise measurements, in the recipe card at the very end of this article. Keep scrolling for all the specifics and nutritional information!

Expert Tips for Achieving Perfectly Crispy Skin

The crispy skin is often the most coveted part of a perfectly roasted chicken, and the air fryer excels at delivering this texture. Here are some pro tips to ensure your air fryer whole chicken boasts that irresistible crunch:

• Thoroughly Dry the Chicken: This is arguably the single most important step. Excess moisture on the chicken skin prevents it from crisping up. Patting the chicken extremely dry with paper towels before applying any rub or oil will make a significant difference. You can even let the chicken air dry in the refrigerator uncovered for an hour or two (or overnight) for even better results.
• Liberally Apply Fat: Don’t be shy with the butter or oil. The combination of butter and olive oil in this recipe is fantastic. The fat helps conduct the heat, allowing the skin to render and crisp beautifully. Rubbing some butter *under* the skin also bastes the meat and helps the skin separate slightly, promoting crispness.
• Even Seasoning Distribution: Ensure your seasoning blend is spread evenly across the entire surface of the chicken. This not only enhances flavor but also contributes to uniform browning and crisping.
• Trussing is Key: Tying the legs and wings helps create a more compact and even shape. This prevents smaller parts like wings from drying out too quickly and ensures all parts of the skin are exposed to the circulating hot air, leading to consistent crisping.
• Flipping Halfway Through: As outlined in the instructions, cooking the chicken breast-side down initially, then flipping it breast-side up, allows for more even cooking and promotes crispness all around the bird. The direct contact with the hot air during the breast-up phase helps render the fat and achieve that golden, crackly skin.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Ensure there’s ample space around the chicken in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding inhibits air circulation, which is essential for crisping. If your air fryer is smaller, consider spatchcocking the chicken (flattening it) to fit it better, though this may alter cooking times slightly.

Optimal Cooking Time and Temperature Recommendations

Achieving a perfectly cooked air fryer whole chicken involves understanding the ideal time and temperature settings, which can vary slightly based on the size of your bird and the specific model of your air fryer. For a standard 3 to 4-pound whole chicken, expect a total cooking time of approximately 50-60 minutes.

• Initial Cook (Breast-Side Down): Start by cooking the chicken breast-side down at 350 degrees F (175°C) for 30 minutes. This helps the dark meat (thighs and legs) cook more thoroughly without overcooking the breast, and also helps render fat from the back, contributing to overall crispness.
• Second Cook (Breast-Side Up): After 30 minutes, carefully flip the chicken to be breast-side up. Continue cooking at 350 degrees F (175°C) for an additional 20-30 minutes. During this phase, the breast skin will get beautifully golden and crispy.
• Checking Internal Temperature: The most reliable way to ensure your chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat is by using an instant-read meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, making sure not to touch any bone. The chicken is safely cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (74°C). If it hasn’t reached this temperature, continue cooking in 5-minute increments until it does.
• Resting Period: Once the target temperature is reached, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest on a cutting board, loosely tented with foil, for at least 10 minutes. This resting period is critical for the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring it remains incredibly tender and moist. Skipping this step can result in dry chicken.

Remember, these are general guidelines. Always trust your meat thermometer for accurate doneness, and adjust cooking times as needed for smaller or larger birds, or if your air fryer runs hotter or cooler.

Creative Alternative Seasoning Options for Your Air Fryer Chicken

While our recipe features a classic and utterly delicious blend of smoked paprika, salt, garlic powder, and fresh thyme, the versatility of air fryer whole chicken allows for endless creativity with seasonings. Don’t hesitate to experiment and tailor the flavors to your preference or the cuisine you’re aiming for:

• Herb Garden Freshness: Beyond thyme, fresh rosemary, basil, oregano, and/or sage can be chopped and mixed into your butter rub for an aromatic twist. A blend of all these “poultry herbs” creates a rich, complex flavor profile.
• Bright Citrus Burst: For a zesty kick, add a tablespoon of lemon zest (or orange zest) to your butter mixture. You can also place lemon halves inside the chicken cavity for added moisture and fragrance.
• Spicy & Smoky: Amp up the heat by incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of chili powder, or a smoked chipotle powder alongside the paprika.
• Mediterranean Flair: Use a blend of dried oregano, marjoram, a hint of cumin, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a taste of the Mediterranean.
• Asian Inspired: For a sweet and savory glaze, brush the chicken with a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and a touch of brown sugar during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.
• Mexican Fiesta: Transform your chicken with a robust blend of cumin, chili powder, oregano, onion powder, and a dash of homemade taco seasoning blend. This makes for fantastic shredded chicken for tacos or burritos.
• Herbes de Provence: A French-inspired blend featuring savory, thyme, rosemary, marjoram, and lavender for an elegant aroma.

The options are truly endless! Feel free to mix and match to discover your personal favorite flavor combination, making each air-fried whole chicken a unique culinary adventure.

Delicious Side Dishes to Serve with Air Fryer Chicken

The beauty of this air fryer whole chicken recipe lies in its versatility, making it a perfect centerpiece for a wide array of comforting and flavorful side dishes. Here are some fantastic suggestions to complete your meal, each offering a unique texture and flavor profile to complement the crispy, juicy chicken:

• Baked Potatoes: A classic pairing, especially with all the delicious chicken drippings.
• Tomato Cucumber Salad: A refreshing and light option that provides a lovely contrast to the rich chicken.
• Herbed Focaccia Bread: Perfect for soaking up any juices or accompanying a slice of chicken.
• Southern Macaroni and Cheese: The ultimate comfort food side, creamy and satisfying.
• Soft Potato Rolls: Warm, fluffy rolls are always a hit, ideal for mini chicken sandwiches or with butter.
• Honey Roasted Carrots: Sweet and tender, these add a touch of color and natural sweetness.
• Southern English Pea Salad: A creamy, crunchy, and slightly sweet salad that’s surprisingly refreshing.
• Steamed Green Beans with Garlic: A simple yet flavorful green vegetable that adds freshness.
• Creamy Coleslaw: The tangy crunch of coleslaw cuts through the richness of the chicken beautifully.

Maximizing Leftovers: Versatile Uses for Air Fryer Chicken

One of the best things about cooking a whole chicken is the potential for delicious leftovers! Whether you’ve intentionally cooked an extra bird for meal prep or simply have some remaining, this air fryer whole chicken is incredibly versatile. Its tender, seasoned meat makes it perfect for transforming into an entirely new meal. Here are some of our favorite ways to utilize the succulent leftover chicken:

• Hearty Soups and Stews: Shredded chicken is a fantastic addition to various soups, adding protein and depth of flavor. Try it in our Cheesy Southwestern Chicken Tortilla Soup or a comforting classic chicken noodle soup.
• Wraps and Tacos: Dice or shred the chicken for quick and easy wraps, burritos, or soft tacos. Its rich flavor complements fresh veggies and a zesty sauce perfectly.
• Chicken Salads: Mix the shredded chicken with mayonnaise, celery, and your favorite herbs for a delicious chicken salad sandwich or a light and fresh Chicken Salad.
• Sandwiches and Paninis: Pile sliced or shredded chicken onto bread with cheese and your favorite toppings for a gourmet sandwich or a grilled panini.
• Pasta Dishes: Stir diced chicken into pasta with a creamy sauce, pesto, or marinara for a quick and satisfying dinner.
• Grain Bowls: Create vibrant and healthy grain bowls with quinoa or rice, roasted vegetables, and a generous portion of shredded chicken.
• Chicken Pot Pie: Use the leftover chicken as the star of a homemade chicken pot pie, a cozy and deeply satisfying meal.
• Honey Lime Chicken Burritos: Shredded chicken combined with a zesty honey-lime sauce makes for incredibly flavorful burritos.
• White Chicken Chili: Add the cooked chicken to a simmering white bean and chili base for a hearty and flavorful stew.

Don’t let any of this delicious chicken go to waste! Its robust flavor profile makes it a versatile ingredient for countless dishes throughout the week.

The Health Benefits of Air Frying Your Whole Chicken

Choosing to cook your whole chicken in an air fryer offers notable health benefits compared to traditional frying methods. The primary advantage lies in significantly reducing the amount of oil needed, which in turn lowers the calorie and fat content of your meal.

• Reduced Fat Intake: Air frying mimics the crispiness of deep-fried foods but uses hot air circulation instead of submerging food in oil. This means your chicken absorbs far less fat, translating to fewer calories and less saturated fat per serving.
• Heart Health: By reducing unhealthy fats, air-fried chicken can contribute to better cardiovascular health, helping to manage cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Retained Nutrients: While conventional frying can sometimes degrade certain nutrients, air frying’s quick, even cooking often helps retain more of the chicken’s natural vitamins and minerals, such as B vitamins and selenium.
• Lower Acrylamide Formation: Some studies suggest that air frying may reduce the formation of acrylamides, potentially harmful compounds that can form in starchy foods cooked at high temperatures. While chicken isn’t a starchy food, it’s a general benefit of the cooking method.
• Lean Protein Source: Chicken itself is an excellent source of lean protein, which is vital for muscle repair, satiety, and overall body function. Air frying ensures you get all the protein benefits without the added grease.

Enjoying a perfectly crispy and juicy whole chicken doesn’t have to come with a guilt trip. The air fryer provides a healthier, yet equally delicious, alternative to achieve your favorite comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Whole Chicken Recipe

This air fryer whole chicken recipe isn’t just another way to cook poultry; it’s a game-changer that will quickly earn a permanent spot in your cooking rotation. Here’s why we’re confident you’ll adore it:

• Incredibly Quick: Say goodbye to long roasting times. With only about 5-10 minutes of active prep time, your whole chicken will be ready to serve in approximately one hour. This makes a show-stopping meal perfectly achievable even on busy weeknights.
• Unmatched Flavor: The flavor of this chicken is truly mouth-watering. The combination of savory butter and classic seasonings creates a rich, aromatic profile that permeates every bite. That irresistibly crispy, seasoned skin paired with tender, juicy meat is simply a flavor sensation that is impossible to resist.
• Effortlessly Easy: No complicated techniques or culinary expertise required here. The process is remarkably simple: pat the chicken dry, rub on the delicious seasoning mixture, truss it, and let your air fryer do all the heavy lifting. It’s a foolproof method that consistently delivers perfect results.
• A Healthier Choice: By utilizing the air fryer, you’re enjoying all the deliciousness of a perfectly “fried” or roasted chicken with significantly less oil. Each serving is typically under 300 calories, low in carbs, and packed with high-quality protein, making it a fantastic option for a balanced, health-conscious diet.
• Perfect Texture: The contrast in textures is a highlight of this recipe. The golden-brown, crackling crispy skin provides an incredible satisfying crunch that beautifully complements the unbelievably moist and tender chicken meat underneath. It’s a textural masterpiece that will delight your palate.

Storage and Reheating Best Practices for Air Fryer Whole Chicken

Proper storage and reheating are key to enjoying your air fryer whole chicken leftovers safely and deliciously. Following these guidelines will help maintain the chicken’s quality and flavor:

• Storing Cooked Chicken: Once cooled, carve the leftover chicken off the bone and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best quality and food safety, consume it within 3-4 days. While it can technically last up to 1 week, we always recommend enjoying it within a day or two for optimal freshness and taste.
• Freezing for Longer Storage: Air fryer whole chicken freezes exceptionally well, making it perfect for future meal prep. Remove the meat from the bones and portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. For the best results and to prevent freezer burn, we highly recommend using a FoodSaver (vacuum sealer). Vacuum sealing removes all air, preserving the chicken’s texture and flavor for up to 3-4 months. When ready to use, transfer the frozen chicken to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw completely, which typically takes at least one full day or more, depending on the portion size.
• Reheating for Crispy Skin: To bring back that glorious crispy skin and juicy meat, the air fryer is your best friend for reheating! Place the chicken pieces (skin-side up, if possible) back into the air fryer preheated to 350 degrees F (175°C) for approximately 10-15 minutes. The exact time will depend on the size and thickness of your pieces. For moist meat, you can cover the chicken loosely with foil during the initial few minutes of reheating, then remove it to crisp up the skin.
• Alternative Reheating Method (Microwave): While convenient, reheating in the microwave is generally not recommended if you desire crispy skin, as it tends to make chicken rubbery. If time is of the essence, you can microwave individual portions on medium power for 2-5 minutes, or until heated through. Be aware the skin will likely not retain its crispness.

By following these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy the deliciousness of your air-fried whole chicken long after it’s first cooked.

Frequently Asked Questions About Air Frying a Whole Chicken

Here are answers to some common questions about cooking a whole chicken in an air fryer:

What size chicken fits in an air fryer?

Most standard air fryers (5-quart and up) can comfortably fit a 3 to 4-pound whole chicken. Larger air fryers might accommodate up to a 5-pound chicken. Always check your air fryer’s capacity and measure your chicken before attempting to cook a larger bird to ensure even cooking.

Do I need to truss the chicken for the air fryer?

While not strictly mandatory, trussing the chicken (tying its legs and tucking the wings) is highly recommended. It helps the chicken cook more evenly, prevents the delicate wing tips from burning, and results in a more compact, aesthetically pleasing shape that fits better in the air fryer basket.

How do I make sure the skin is crispy?

The key to crispy skin is moisture removal. Always pat the chicken thoroughly dry with paper towels before seasoning. Applying a fat like butter or oil liberally to the skin also aids in crisping. Ensure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow hot air to circulate freely around the chicken.

What if my air fryer is smoking?

Smoking can occur if fat drips onto the heating element. To prevent this, you can place a slice of bread or a small amount of water at the bottom of the air fryer basket (under the rack) to catch drippings. Ensure your air fryer is clean from previous cooking residues, as old oil can also cause smoking.

Can I put stuffing inside the air fryer chicken?

It is generally not recommended to stuff a whole chicken when cooking it in an air fryer. Stuffing can increase cooking time significantly and prevent the chicken from cooking evenly, potentially leading to unsafe internal temperatures in the stuffing itself before the chicken is fully done.

Why is my chicken drying out?

Overcooking is the most common reason for dry chicken. Always use a meat thermometer and remove the chicken once it reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. Also, allowing the chicken to rest for 10 minutes after cooking is crucial for redistributing juices and keeping the meat moist.

More Irresistible Air Fryer Recipes You’ll Love:

If you’ve discovered the joy and convenience of air frying a whole chicken, you’re in for a treat! The air fryer is an incredibly versatile appliance, perfect for whipping up a variety of delicious and healthier meals. Here are some of our other favorite air fryer recipes that you absolutely must try:

• Crispy Air Fryer Hot Dogs: A quick and easy way to get perfectly cooked hot dogs with a satisfying snap.
• Easy Homemade Fish Tacos: Flaky, perfectly cooked fish for your favorite taco night, without the deep-frying.
• BBQ Salmon in the Air Fryer: Tender, flavorful salmon with a delicious barbecue glaze, cooked in minutes.
• Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken Wings: Perfectly crispy wings coated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce.
• Speedy Pizza Quesadilla: A fun and easy snack or light meal combining the best of pizza and quesadillas.
• Crispy Chicken Taquitos: Golden-brown and satisfying taquitos, ideal for appetizers or a quick dinner.

Air Fryer Whole Chicken Recipe Card

Discover the secret to perfectly cooked and juicy whole chicken in the air fryer. This easy and delicious recipe is sure to become a family favorite, with minimal prep and cook time.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 1 hour | Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes | Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 Whole Chicken (3-4 lbs)
• 2 Tablespoons Butter, softened
• 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt
• 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
• 2 teaspoons Thyme, fresh, chopped
• Honey (for drizzling)

Instructions

1. Pat the whole chicken thoroughly dry with paper towels, inside and out.
2. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with smoked paprika, kosher salt, and garlic powder. Rub this mixture generously all over the outside of the chicken and gently under the skin. Add fresh chopped thyme to the chicken.
3. Using kitchen twine, truss the chicken by tying the legs together and tucking the wings under the body.
4. Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees F (175°C). Place the chicken breast-side down in the preheated air fryer basket. Cook for 30 minutes.
5. Carefully flip the chicken so it is now breast-side up. Continue to cook for another 20-30 minutes, or until an instant-read meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh (avoiding bone) registers 165 degrees F (74°C).
6. Remove the chicken from the air fryer and transfer it to a cutting board. Let it rest for 10 minutes, loosely tented with foil, to allow the juices to redistribute.
7. Drizzle warm honey all over the top of the chicken before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

Nutrition Information (per serving, approximate)

• Calories: 275 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 0.4g
• Protein: 24g
• Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0.1g
• Cholesterol: 95mg
• Sodium: 283mg
• Potassium: 251mg
• Fiber: 0.2g
• Sugar: 0.02g
• Vitamin A: 292 IU
• Vitamin C: 3mg
• Calcium: 17mg
• Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation only.